OP-ED Tim McDonald
I had no family history of colon cancer. Screening was not on my radar. Then I developed a sudden pain in my side, went to the emergency room, underwent tests, and my life changed. A few days after my diagnosis, I made a promise to myself. If telling my story can help someone avoid a terminal diagnosis, I’ll tell it too.
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a reminder that taking care of yourself is a strength, not a weakness. One of the simplest and most powerful steps men and women around the world can take is to stay informed about recommended tests, including colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable cancers if detected early, yet approximately 1 in 3 eligible Americans, or more than 50 million people, do not have up-to-date screening. The reasons are all too common: time off from work, transportation, anxiety about preparing for a colonoscopy, confusion about options, or simply putting it off. Barriers are piling up quickly in Tampa Bay, which has a large population of seniors, veterans, and seasonal residents.
One of the first steps to getting tested is knowing your options for getting tested. Colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening, but methods such as stool-based and now blood-based tests are also important.
New blood-based tests are increasing the screening options available. Shield is the first blood-based test approved by the FDA as a primary screening method for colorectal cancer and is available to many average-risk adults. The test can be done without any preparation during a routine doctor’s visit. Although they do not replace colonoscopies and positive results require follow-up, innovations like this can help encourage more people to get tested.
If we are serious about closing the vetting gap, we must move from talking about innovation to doing it. This means encouraging each other to get tested and ensuring testing policies keep up with the science and are inclusive of the options available.
If you’re 45 or older, here’s how to make National Cancer Prevention Month count.
Ask your doctor, “Are you planning to get a colorectal cancer test?” Guidelines recommend starting at age 45 for average-risk adults. Whether you choose a colonoscopy, a stool test, or a blood test, the test that you actually complete is best. Know your risks. Family history, symptoms, and previous findings can affect what is right for you. Mark it on your calendar today. Don’t wait for the “right time”. Make screening a part of your annual routine, just like a car inspection.
This is not an abstract state-wide thing. We have a large senior community where veterans balance care between medical providers and working families who cannot take extra time off. An at-home stool test or a blood draw at a local clinic can make the difference between getting tested now or waiting until it’s too late.
Note: A negative result does not mean you can ignore your symptoms. Be alert for bloody stools, unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, or changes in bowel habits. A positive non-invasive test is not a diagnosis, but it is a signal to get a colonoscopy immediately.
Florida residents, now is the time to take action. Please call your doctor. Tell your loved ones and friends about the screening. Don’t wait until a crisis hits to take your health seriously.
I wish I had started sooner. You can still do it. Let’s make a reservation.
Tim McDonald is a colorectal cancer survivor and patient advocate living in Tampa. He shares his story to encourage timely testing and early detection.
