St. Mary’s County Health Department provides a limited amount of no-cost screening services for qualifying residents. In addition, health educators provide individual and community education about the risks, symptoms and prevention of Colorectal Cancer. Call the health department to request a display or presentation for your school, place of business, organization or group function.
Did you Know?
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States but it doesn’t have to be. Screening tests can find this cancer early when it is easiest to treat. Screening tests can even help prevent colorectal cancer by finding polyps (growths in the colon) and removing them before they turn into cancer.
Screenings:
There are several different types of screening tests that can be done. One test checks your stool for blood, while another involves passing a flexible tube into the colon to check for abnormal growths. The “Gold Standard” is the colonoscopy which allows the doctor to look at your entire colon and remove any growths that are found. Your health care provider will tell you which type of screening would be best for you.
No Cost Screening Services:
*All services are subject to availability of funds*
The health department has a limited amount of funding to provide colonoscopy screening at no cost to qualifying county residents. You may qualify if you are:
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A resident of St. Mary’s county
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Age 50 or older
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Having symptoms or are at high risk for developing colorectal cancer. (Under age 50)
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Have little or no health insurance
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Have limited income
Contact: (for more information about qualifying for this service)
Betsy Tyer R.N.
301-475-4079
You may be at risk for colorectal cancer if:
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A member of your immediate family has had colorectal cancer or polyps.
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You have had colorectal cancer or polyps.
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You have Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease.
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You have had cancer of the ovary or endometrium before age 50.
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Early in the disease, when it is most easily treated, there are usually NO symptoms. This is why screening test are so important. In its late stages colorectal cancer symptoms may include:
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Blood in the stool or toilet during bowel movements
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Stomach pains or gas pains that do not go away
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Weight loss for no known reason
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Change in bowel habits
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Feeling tired all the time
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