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Colorectal Cancer Screening Pilot Program
Louisiana currently has the second highest colorectal cancer mortality rate per capita in the nation. Additionally, colorectal cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer. An estimated 2,500 Louisianans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2008 and approximately 960 Louisiana residents will die from this disease this year.
When detected in later stages, this form of cancer is not only incredibly expensive to treat, but the survival rate is also extremely low. The cost of treating Colorectal Cancer found at a late stage can cost up to 50 times as much as it costs to remove a pre-cancerous polyp.
The American Cancer Society, in collaboration with healthcare providers and supporters from across the state, recently announced a legislative initiative to create a colorectal cancer screening pilot program as a solution to our state’s colorectal cancer crisis.
This project, administered through the LSU system across the state, would offer screenings to low-risk individuals aged 50 to 64 who are uninsured or underinsured. Similar programs in other states have proven to be instrumental in decreasing colorectal cancer incidence and mortality.
The $1.5 million in funding requested to launch the program would cover early detection screening; colonoscopies; fellowships, technician trainings and general professional training depending on needs; education of project site staff; and patient navigation, including transfer of records as necessary, data collection and project evaluation.
This project gives Louisiana an opportunity to be on the front end of systems change and would be a proactive step for our state. There is also pending federal legislation that would offer a CDC match to states showing progress and initiative. Early detection not only saves thousands of lives in Louisiana, but also saves the state millions in critical health care dollars.
This project is currently an initiative being considered by state lawmakers. If you would like more information or to help advocate for this important program, please contact Andrew Muhl with the American Cancer Society. You can reach him at 225-276-1941 or andrew.muhl@cancer.org
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