By SALINA POST
In recognition of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 800 free colorectal cancer screening kits will be available throughout March for individuals aged 45 to 75 who have not had a recent colonoscopy.
The screening kits can be picked up at participating pharmacies in Salina, Abilene, Concordia, and Lindsborg while supplies last. The test uses an advanced fecal blood test requiring only one sample and has no food or drug restrictions. Participants can mail their samples to the Tammy Walker Cancer Center for lab analysis using a pre-paid postage envelope included in the kit. Results will be shared with both the patient and their primary care physician.
Health officials recommend that all men and women undergo a colonoscopy at age 45 for colorectal cancer screening. Between colonoscopies, a fecal blood test can serve as an additional screening method. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier.
Pharmacies distributing the screening kits in Salina include B&K Prescription Shop, CVS Pharmacy, three Dillons Pharmacy locations, Patterson Key Rexall, Sam’s Club Pharmacy, Walgreens Pharmacy, Walmart Pharmacy, Salina Regional Health Center Pharmacy, and Salina Family Healthcare Pharmacy. Additional locations include Auburn Pharmacy, Patterson Healthcare Pharmacy, and Harvey Drug in Abilene; Auburn Pharmacy and Walmart Pharmacy in Concordia; and Auburn Pharmacy in Lindsborg.
The screening initiative is supported through grant funding from the Salina Charities League and the Salina Regional Health Foundation.
For more information or to request a kit by mail, contact Daniel Craig, cancer outreach coordinator at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, at (785) 452-4848 or via email at [email protected].