Also known as colorectal cancer, colon cancer, or of the "large intestine", is the second leading cause of cancer death in Canada. Generally developed on a polyp, a kind of outgrowth of the inner lining of the colon, this cancer can evolve over a long period of time without any apparent symptoms—hence the importance of early detection.
Step 1: Obtaining the collection kit
To carry out the screening, you first need a medical prescription. Once this prescription is issued by your doctor, you can go to a collection centre to get a kit and an information pamphlet.
Step 2: Taking the sample
At home, follow the instructions on the pamphlet to use the kit and take a stool sample.
Step 3: Analyzing the sample
Bring the sample in person to the sampling centre. It must be submitted within 48 hours. It will then be analyzed, and the results will be sent to your doctor, who can do the appropriate follow-up.
Encouraging early detection of the disease has the potential to change worrying statistics: Every day in Canada, an average of 73 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 26 die from it. It is estimated that 1 in 14 Canadians will develop colon cancer in their lifetime—95% of colorectal cancer cases occur after the age of 50.
For more information, visit the Canadian Cancer Society’s website.
You can support awareness of the risks of colorectal cancer and the importance of early detection by purchasing, at a Jean Coutu store in Quebec, a bottle of organic foaming hand wash benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society. Made by a local company, this citrus product is offered at a cost of $5 plus taxes. With its convenient 50 ml size, it fits easily in a bag or drawer, and keeps your hands clean at all times!
