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Men: Step up to the plate and get screened for colorectal cancer

For Immediate Release: July 21, 2015

LANSING, Mich. – Men in Michigan can hit one out of the park this summer by stepping up to the plate to get screened for colorectal cancer – that’s what a Detroit radio personality is doing and advocating.

Jim “JJ” Johnson of 104.3 WOMC Classic Hits had his colorectal screening within the last month as part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ “Step Up” campaign to improve colorectal screening awareness and rates among men. Johnson is now encouraging other men to get tested for colorectal cancer.

JJ had previous experience with colorectal cancer screening as this was his third colonoscopy due to a history of polyps – small growths that can turn cancerous. The good news is no polyps were found during his most recent screening. As a result, he says he now has peace of mind.

“I’ve been telling my audience to take their preventive health seriously because colorectal cancer is preventable, detectable, and treatable. I have shared the experience of the actual procedure – short in duration and absolutely pain free. Zero recovery time,” JJ said.

When rates for women and men are combined, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the country. A projected 1,670 people in Michigan will die from the disease this year. Both men and women should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 50. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or pre-cancerous polyps, talk with your doctor about starting testing before age 50.

Different types of colorectal cancer screening tests are available. Screening options include at-home tests and colonoscopy – all are effective at finding cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable. Through proper colorectal cancer screening, doctors can find and remove hidden polyps in the colon before they become cancerous.

Be sure to talk with your health care provider about cancer early-detection tests and  check with your health plan  regarding your coverage. For the uninsured, preventing colorectal cancer or finding it early doesn’t have to be expensive. There are simple, affordable, and recommended tests available for colorectal cancer screening.

For more information about colorectal cancer screenings and prevention, visit www.michigan.gov/cancer.                                                     

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