Free colonoscopies offered to county residents

The American Cancer Society, Upstate Carolina Medical Center and SCDHEC encourages men and women over the age of 50 years of age to get a colonoscopy. This is especially important for the citizens of Cherokee County because the county ranks number four in the state for deaths from colon cancer. At this time, a limited number of free colonoscopies are available to those who qualify.

A colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colon cancer. Colon cancer can in some cases be prevented though screening. If during a screening, polyps are detected, they can be removed before they turn cancerous. Unfortunately, most people do not have symptoms until the cancer is in its later stages, making it more difficult to treat.

"It is an issue that most people do not want to talk about," said Buffy Henson, Mission Delivery Manager for the American Cancer Society. "We have to educate people and make them more comfortable with the issue."

It is very simple... if you are 50 years old or older, get a colonoscopy. If you have a family history of colon cancer, get a colonoscopy. Medicaid, Medicare and most insurance companies will cover the cost of a colonoscopy. However, you must have a referral from your family physician.

A limited number of free colonoscopies are being offered to uninsured men or women age 50 or older in Cherokee County. This is about a $3,000 value. If you are interested, please call as soon as possible because time is running out. Funding for this special project will be over as of June 30, 2006. This funding for a free colonoscopy will only cover those that do not have insurance, Medicaid or Medicare. Please call toll-free 877-356-2116 for more information.