C.A.S.U.A.L Day is March 21, 2013

C.A.S.U.A.L Day  was founded as an effort to promote cancer screening by the family of Helen Phillips.   In 2003, Helen’s family and friends approached the Cancer Institute to undertake a community awareness initiative to promote colorectal cancer screening - a preventative act.

Northeast Regional Cancer Institute sponsors the annual event to raise awareness for colon cancer in NEPA and to emphasize the importance of screening and early detection of colon cancer.  Colon and rectal cancers are one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in our area.  The incidence rates of colon cancer in northeast PA is 23% above the US average.  The mortality rate in our area is 16% higher than the US average. 
In Bradford, Carbon, Lehigh, Lackawanna, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Wayne and Wyoming counties, approximately 1,200 new cases of colon cancer are diagnosed each year.  Unfortunately, about 400 people each year succumb to the disease.   Are we fated to this disease if we live in NEPA? 

Early detection is important to combat any disease.  If you are over 50, had polyps of the colon of have a close relative who had colon polyps or colon cancer, or Have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis you are at risk.  Often there are no signs.  However, if you do notice any of the following signs a doctor’s consultation is needed:  Changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain/bloating blood in your stool, weakness/fatigue or unexplained weight loss.  Once you talk to your doctor, you and the doctor can decide the proper course of action such as which screening type to use.  Early detection can save a life. 

If you are interested in joining C.A.S.U.A.L. Day contact NE Regional Cancer Institute at 334 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton PA.   570-941-7984

Proceeds from the event benefit Northeast Regional Cancer Institute efforts to raise colorectal cancer awareness and support colorectal cancer screenings for low income, un/underinsured individuals.