The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net 

THE Cancer Society of the Bahamas will raise awareness of colon cancer during its upcoming forum with the hopes of inspiring people to undergo early screening.

The forum is one of many efforts by the organisation to ensure that members of the public are fully informed of the condition.

The forum will be held at the Cancer Society in Centreville on April 11, beginning at 5.30pm. It will feature a presentation by Dr Marcus Cooper, and colon cancer survivors Ryan McCartney or Denise Smith Kemp will share their story. 

Dr Cooper will present a medical perspective on what key factors to look for when detecting colon cancer.

“Screening increases the chances of detecting colon cancer early. Learn what screening tests are recommended and when you should have them. We also have colon cancer survivors telling their stories about their journey with cancer,” said Melissa Major, the programme’s coordinator at Cancer Society .

“Our mission is to educate and raise awareness on all types of cancers. Based on the Princess Margaret Hospital 2014 report, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer in the Bahamas. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, with nearly 1.4 million new cases diagnosed in 2012. Also, based on a report given in the New York Times, colorectal cancer is rising in young people,” she said.

During the forum, Ms Major said guests will also get information on facts and myths about colon cancer. 

“We hope that persons will follow the screening guidelines and adhere to a healthy lifestyle regime to prevent the risk of colon cancer,” she said.

“Men and women, starting at age 45, should have one of these tests done that will find polyps and cancer: flexible sigmoidoscopy or double contract barium enema or colonoscopy. Early detection is key.”

Since May is Cancer Awareness Month, the theme for the Cancer Society is, “The Benefits of Healthy Lifestyle Choices”. The organisation is expected to host a number of events to spread awareness and disseminate information. 

“We are providing cancer patients, survivors and their families as well as persons at risk across The Bahamas, with a wide variety of services and programs for the early detection and prevention of cancer,” Ms Major said.