Free Colon Screening For Maine Residents
Underinsured and uninsured Mainers are now eligible for free colon cancer screening.
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the U.S. among men and women over the age of 50. An estimated 900 people in Maine develop colon cancer each year with roughly a third of them dying from the disease. It is estimated that 90% of these deaths are preventable with proper screenings and follow-ups starting at age 50.
Maine recently received a 5-year federal grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide the free screening as well as educate the public on the seriousness of the disease. One of the biggest problems faced with colon cancer is that there are often no symptoms. Therefore, regular testing and follow-ups are a necessity.
Eligibility for the free screenings is based on both financial and institutional considerations. Those over the age of 50 who earn less than 250% of federal income guidelines will generally be accepted.
For more information on free colon cancer screening or to setup an appointment, please call the Colorectal Screening Hotline at 1-877-320-6800 or visit: www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/index.shtml.
