Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Program

The Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Program was established under the law of KRS 214.540-544 in 2008 with the idea to create awareness about the Colorectal Cancer Prevention.

Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Program aims to control and reduce the rising number of colon cancer along with the associated deaths and disorders with the help of the local, regional, and state health professionals. This program is backed by the federal government by receiving federal funds from CDC. Along with federal funding, the program also acquires limited state funding. The basic focus behind this step from federal and state-level funding is to Increase Colorectal Cancer Prevention programs.

A proper Advisory Committee has been formed to keep a track of prevention programs and prepare an annual report.

Colon cancer appears in colon this is why it is called colorectal cancer. The rate of Colon Cancer is very high but according to doctors, this cancer could be cured in the early stages. Colon cancer matures itself from polyps or we can say abnormal growths. The screening of cancer is found very effective because the prevention process finds and removes polyps before it converts into cancer.

The possibility of growing colorectal cancer escalates with an individual’s age. It is advisable to start the tests at the age of 50 and after crossing 50, it is a must to schedule the tests at a regular interval. Although if the factors include: hereditary syndromes, history of patients, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis and Crohn’s.

There may or may not be any symptoms of colorectal cancer at the early stages, therefore tests are very essential after the age of 50. Over time the symptoms include, blood in stool, stomach discomfort, gas, pain, or indigestion, weight loss, and chronic fatigue

Screening is the best way to lessen the risk of cancer. However, recent studies show that colorectal cancer can be reduced by introducing healthy lifestyle choices in your daily life.

To reduce the risk of the Colon cancer, you need to avoid overconsumption of alcohol. Regular exercise can also help keep your body fit and help prevent colon cancer.

Smoking is another factor that can be the cause of not just colon cancer but many other harmful diseases as well hence, quit smoking. Staying away from junk and processed food and including more organic foods in your diet can prevent the risks cancer in your body.

Cancer treatment is free in the state of Kentucky. But, if you are visiting any medical home to be cleared for the colonoscopy there may be some specified cost for that.

The KCCSP program eligibility criteria are based on patient history. The test includes two steps, patients with a low or average risk of cancer will be offered an annual FIT test, where if they test positive for FIT, the patient will be referred to colonoscopy.

Whereas if the patients are at high right due to a family history of colorectal cancer or symptoms will be referred directly for a colonoscopy.

The Kentucky Colon Cancer Program is for the people who follow certain eligibility requirements. The age of the applicant is 50-64(white) and 45-65(African American). The total household income of the applicant should be within the Federal Poverty Level guidelines.

To learn more about the Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Program, kindly visit the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services official website. To reach via phone for the Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Program call the Cabinet for Health and Family Services office at the following numbers

(502) 564-4667

(502) 564-7996 x4456

You can also send the application form via an email address, teri.wood@ky.gov

You can also send your application to the program’s mailing address at 275 E. Main St. HS2 WE

Frankfort, KY 40621

Also Study: Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (ABCCEDP)