Wisconsin is doing poorly when it comes to screening for colorectal cancer.
The American Cancer Society gave the state an “F” because it’s one of only a few states without any laws requiring insurance providers to cover the cost of a colorectal cancer screening.
ACS numbers show colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Wisconsin. But it can be prevented through screening.
Not all companies cover the exams, forcing some people to choose between paying for the test or not getting one.
But things could change. Wisconsin lawmakers are set to vote on a bill that would make all state-regulated providers cover the cost of a routine screening.
“People in Wisconsin want their lawmakers to do everything they can to combat cancer in this state and there’s no reason they should continue to accept an ‘F’ grade on this matter,” said Bob Meyer, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society.
At least one-third of all cancer cases can be prevented. Sandy Hutchens Cancer Prevention offers the most efficient strategy for the prevention of cancer.
Tobacco
This is the single largest preventable cause of cancer in the world. It causes over 80% of all lung cancer deaths, and 30% of all cancer deaths in the third world. This includes deaths from cancer of the oral cavity, larynx, oesophagus and stomach. A comprehensive program which would include a stop to tobacco advertising, increased taxation on tobacco products, and stop smoking programs can greatly reduce the use of tobacco in many countries. The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control adopted measures in May 2003, aims to curb tobacco-related deaths and disease. We are looking for updates on their progress.
Diet
Changes in diet is another critical action to take to prevent and control cancer. There are know links between obesity and many types of cancer such as oesophagus, colorectum, breast, endometrium and kidney. Diets high in fruits and vegetables have a preventative effect against a great number of cancers. On the other hand, consumption of red and preserved meat is connected with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.Healthy eating habits which ameliorate the development of diet-related cancers have the added benefit of lowering the potential for cardiovascular disease.
Exercise
Regular physical exercise along with a healthy body weight and healthy diet, will greatly reduce the chances of cancer. National policies and programs have been implemented in some countries which raise awareness and reduce exposure to cancer risk factors. To ensure that citizens are provided with the information and the tools they need to adopt healthy lifestyles governments may play a large role.
Preventing Disease
Infectious agents are responsible for almost one quarter of cancer deaths in the third world and 1 in 20 in industrialized countries. Viral hepatitis B and C can cause liver cancer; human papilloma virus infection can cause cancer of the cervix; the bacterium Helicobacter pylori can greatly increase the risk of stomach cancer. In some countries the parasitic infection schistosomiasis increases the risk of bladder cancer and in other countries the liver fluke increases the risk of cholangiocarcinoma to do with the bile ducts system. Preventive measures include vaccination and prevention of infection and infestation.
Radiation
Exposure to radiation is well known to cause some cancers. Solar ultraviolet radiation can raise the risk of all types of skin cancer. Avoiding excessive exposure, use of sunscreen and protective clothing are important preventive activities.
Asbestos
On the subject of home and workplace safety, asbestos must be looked at because it can cause lung cancer. Also aniline dyes have been linked to bladder cancer. Benzene has been linked to leukemia. The prevention of certain occupational and environmental exposure to these and other chemicals are important steps to take in preventing cancer.
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