Nicole Heanssler’s Post

Early detection is the way…

Why are folks hesitant to have this potential life-saving screening done? As an American Cancer Society employee who works with communities and who has a vast history of cancer in my family; you can imagine I meet lots of people who share stories with me. I've met folks who had polyps discovered and removed, during their routine screenings, I've had volunteers who refuse to have a screening done because they say, "I don't want to know". I've met the grandmother of a 24-year-old who succumb to colorectal cancer. When I asked if he had experienced any signs or symptoms she said, "yes". Apparently, he had loose bowels for a month before going to see about it. By the time he did, he was stage 4. It doesn't have to be this way. If you feel something is wrong, follow your gut. If you're wrong, you're still alive. There are several colon cancer screenings you can choose from, but the best one is whichever one you have done. Take it from someone who has had three (3) colonoscopies, the worst part is the preparation. I didn't feel any different after the procedure. So, if you are 45 and DO NOT have a history of cancer in your family or experiencing any signs or symptoms and have not had a colon cancer screening, call your primary care provider and ask them for a referral. You could be saving your own life. If you do have a history of cancer in your family or having some questionable signs or symptoms, talk to your primary provider as soon as possible. Let's all be proactive in our own healthcare, not reactive.

Screening for colorectal cancer starts at 45.

The 5-year survival rate for lung cancer continues to increase but there is still much work to do. If you are at risk for lung cancer, talk to your doctor about annual screening and CyPath Lung, a noninvasive test for the early detection of lung cancer. Learn more at www.cypathlung.com #LungCancerAwarenessMonth #lungcancer #CyPathLung

Colorectal cancer is rising in young adults. Have you been screened yet? Find a screening location near you and get a personalized screening recommendation at YourColonIs45.org – brought to you by American Cancer Society and Colorectal Cancer Alliance #yourcolonis45

Colorectal cancer is often called the "silent killer" because the early stages often have no symptoms. So, how do you stay aware and healthy for yourself and your loved ones? Colon cancer screenings are the best way to detect or prevent colon cancer. When caught at an early stage, there is a 90% chance of surviving colon cancer. Learn more from our friends at CheckIt4Andretti! #PIFF #PayItForwardFriday #beatcancer #whyheroes #colorectalcancer #colorectalcancerawareness #CheckIt4Andretti

🔵 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month🔵 Did you know that having a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer increases your risk? The American Cancer Society published 1 in 3 people who develop colorectal cancer have other family members who have had it. While the stat's are alarming, early detection still stands as one of the most important defenses against colorectal cancer. We encourage you to have a chat with your doctor about early screening, especially if you have a family history of it! Let's raise awareness and save lives together 💙 #ColorectalCancerAwareness #FamilyHealth #EarlyDetection

Movember: Let’s Talk Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men during their lifetime, according to American Cancer Society. Early detection can save lives. This Movember, let’s raise awareness—know your risk and get screened. 💙 🔍 Key Facts: Prostate cancer is often silent in the early stages—regular check-ups are crucial. Early detection leads to better treatment outcomes. Speak to your GP for advice. #Movember #ProstateCancerAwareness #MensHealth #EarlyDetection #GetChecked #BreakTheStigma

March is #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth. Did you know that many early symptoms are not noticeable, leading to a delayed diagnosis? With regular screenings, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and highly treatable when caught early. Don't wait until it's too late - talk to your provider about your different screening options today.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know lung cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the United States? Stay tuned as we share important information throughout the month to help raise lung cancer awareness. #LungCancerAwarenessMonth #LungCancerAwareness #LCAM #LungCancer #CancerAwareness #EpicCare