MONTHLY HEALTH TOPIC

March 2012: National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It's as common in women as it is in men. This year, over 141,200 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and an estimated 49,380 will die of the disease. With certain types of screening, this cancer can be prevented by removing polyps (grape-like growths on the wall of the intestine) before they become cancerous. Several screening tests detect colorectal cancer early, when it can be more easily and successfully treated.

For more information: www.preventcancer.org/colorectal

February 2012: Heart Month

Our mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. That single purpose drives all we do.

For more information: www.heart.org

January 2012: National Radon Action Month

You can't see, smell, or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 20,000 Americans each year. In fact, the EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urge all Americans to protect their health by testing their homes, schools, and other buildings for radon. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk, and testing radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure.

For more information: www.epa.gov/radon/nram