March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. Get a Test for Life kit from Channel 2 Works for You

TULSA - Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., but it's 90% preventable and curable when found in its earliest stages.

That's why 2 Works for You has partnered with Gastroenterology Specialists Inc. and USA Drug to provide free screening tests to help save lives.

Now through April 7th, go to any May’s Drug, Med-Ex or Drug Warehouse store and pick up your free screening kit. The test is simple with instant results and a lifetime of good health.

Colorectal cancer can happen to anyone, so encourage your loved ones over the age of 50 to take advantage of this free screening.

Together we can save lives.

Click on the flyer below to print a copy of it and the attached coupons.

What is the purpose of colon cancer screening?

The purpose of colorectal cancer screening is to prevent the development of colorectal cancer. Screening options include fecal occult blood test (FOBT), colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and barium enema.

What is the EZ Detect test?

EZ Detect is a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) designed to detect blood in the stool (often not seen by the naked eye). Such bleeding might be a sign of colorectal cancer.

Who is at risk for color cancer?

The risk of colon cancer grows as people get older. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 90 percent of those diagnosed are over age 50. In the low risk population, FOBT is offered to those over 50 as one alternative to screening. Testing is recommended earlier for those with potential risk factors such as family history of colorectal cancer, history of precancerous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer of the breast, ovaries or uterus.

How does this screening program work?

The program is based on a simple, take-home test called EZ Detect, manufactured by Biomerica and distributed thru USA Drug Stores.

Is the test difficult?

No. The test is user-friendly and requires no stool collection. It includes simple directions for preparing your Test Results Card - see what the card looks like here . Any trace of blue or green color on the test tissue during the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd bowel movement check indicates a positive result. The Water Quality Check should be negative and the Test Performance Check should be positive.

Should I take the test even if I have no symptoms?

Yes. Most cancers and polyps cause no symptoms and no pain. Often, early cancers can be detected by testing for small quantities of blood in the stool.

How will I know if the test is positive?

Simply complete the EZ Detect test in the privacy of your home. If your test is positive please call Gastroenterology Specialists, Inc. (GSI) at (918) 494-9433 to schedule an appointment for a follow-up visit.

If my test is positive, does it mean I have cancer?

A positive EZ Detect test means that there may be bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. There are many benign (non-life threatening) conditions such as polyps, hemorrhoids, rectal fissures or other colon lesions that can cause bleeding that may be detected by EZ Detect. Most studies show that only 5-10% of those with a positive test will be diagnosed with a cancer. However it is imperative that anyone with a positive test result see a physician as soon as possible to determine the cause of the bleeding. Contact your physician or a physician at Gasterenterology Specialists, Inc. (GSI) (918) 494-9433 for an appointment to follow-up on a positive result.

If my test is negative does it mean I do not have cancer?

Not necessarily. Even though EZ Detect is a good test for identifying blood in the stool, it does not determine if you have colon cancer. A negative test means that there was no blood in the stool detected at the time of the test. Blood in the stool may occur intermittently or not at all. You should talk with your doctor about colon cancer screening and prevention to identify what is right for you.

If my test is positive, what should I do?

If your test is positive, we suggest that you call Gastroenterology Specialists, Inc. (GSI) at (918) 494-9433 for an appointment.

What are the chances of survival for someone with colorectal cancer?

If the cancer is found early and treated properly, more that 90 percent of patients survive five years or more. That’s why taking this test is so important.