A recent report from the American Cancer Society has shed light on the alarming revelation that Indigenous Alaskans have the highest rate of colon cancer in the world. The report calls for increased screenings, stool tests, and follow-up care for people aged 45-49 to help curb this trend.
According to TCC’s guidelines, screening colonoscopies should commence at the age of 40 for Alaska Native individuals, with a recommended screening interval of every five years. In adopting the most frequent screening program statewide, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) aims to reduce the incidence of colon cancer among Alaska Native populations.
In addition to implementing its screening program, TCC is actively advocating for other Alaska Tribal Health Organizations to adopt similar initiatives. Recognizing the importance of collaborative efforts, TCC seeks to create a ripple effect, encouraging other healthcare providers to prioritize colon cancer prevention strategies tailored to the unique needs of Alaska Native populations.
By raising awareness about the importance of early detection and promoting healthy lifestyle initiatives, TCC aims to empower our patients. Physicians and Quality Assurance staff encourage all patients to discuss colonoscopy screenings with providers. “In spite of our efforts, and aggressive screening and prevention guidelines, the number of patients seeking colonoscopy screenings is far from ideal,” says Dr. Stephen Gerrish, a provider at Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center, “We hope to see more patients seeking early detection in the coming months. It significantly improves the chances for positive outcomes.”
Dr. Gerrish emphasizes the effect that colonoscopy has on cancer diagnosis and prognosis. “We are now confident that colonoscopy, when started early and performed often, is quite effective at preventing a patient from ever getting colo-rectal cancer,” he says, “That is so much better than waiting until a cancer diagnosis, and then trying to manage it.”
Worldwide risk factors mean that world class interventions are necessary. If you are 40 or older, talk with your provider about colon cancer screening, and take advantage of our early detection opportunity.