JOPLIN, MO (SNS) - Missouri Southern and the American Cancer Society began an effort today to increase the public awareness of the importance of colon cancer screenings. MSSU officially has been proclaimed a Colon Cancer Free Zone.

MSSU will challenge its students, faculty and staff to become aware of the risks, talk to their health care providers, and get tested when appropriate for colon cancer. Departments will display awareness messages.

MSSU students, faculty and staff will be provided with colon cancer awareness presentations. They may sign pledges stating that they will speak to their healthcare provider about screenings and tell others to do the same.

“Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer related deaths in Missouri; yet it is 90% preventable if adults get screened regularly,” said Darren Fullerton, Director of Campus Recreation and Wellness at Missouri Southern.

“Many people 50 and over do not know they are at risk and that they need to be screened. If MSSU can increase awareness we will have a tremendous opportunity to save lives through prevention and early detection of colon cancer,” Fullerton adds.

The American Cancer Society says those over age 50 have one of several tests every five years. People with a personal or family history of colon cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease should also be tested. High-fat diets and physical inactivity may increase the risk of disease.

For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

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