March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Please take 2 minutes and if you have any of the risk factors or symptoms listed below, please get checked. And pass this on to other people you know who you think should read this.

Risk Factors of Colon Cancer:

• Age 50 or older.
• A family history of cancer of the colon or rectum.
• A personal history of cancer of the colon, rectum, ovary, endometrium or breast.
• A history of polyps in the colon.

Signs or symptoms of Colon Cancer:

• A change in bowel habits.
• Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool.
• Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely.
• Stools that are narrower than usual.
• General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness or cramps).
• Weight loss with no known reason.
• Constant tiredness.
• Vomiting.

The statistics are daunting:

Breast cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in Hispanic women. It is the second most common cause of cancer death in white, black, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native women. Annual mammograms (for those 40+) combined with regular self-exams are the best known way to detect breast cancer early, and of course, the earlier you catch it, the better the odds for beating it. So, if you are 40 or older and haven’t booked your annual mammogram yet, take 2 minutes today, no, RIGHT NOW, to book your appointment! We’re serious, stop reading and go make the call! If you’re without insurance, there is no need to skip it – there are many programs from coast-to-coast that give free mammograms.

Find a Local Resource for Free Mammograms:

The United States Government’s National Cancer Institute can direct you to a local resource for free mammograms. Call them toll-free at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). Be ready with your zip code.