Alaska Native people have the highest rate of colon cancer in the world. To fight this, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) urges Alaska Native adults to start screening at age 40—five years earlier than national guidelines.
Colon cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the U.S., but it can often be prevented with regular screening. The disease usually starts as small growths, called polyps, in the colon or rectum. If found early, doctors can remove these polyps before they turn into cancer. Different screening options are available, including stool tests, CT scans, and colonoscopies. A colonoscopy is the most thorough test because it allows doctors to check the entire colon and remove any polyps during the procedure.
TCC is working to make screenings more common and is encouraging other Alaska Tribal Health Organizations to do the same. However, not enough people are getting screened. Doctors and health providers want more adults to take this life-saving step.
If you are 40 or older, talk to your doctor about getting screened for colon cancer. Early detection saves lives, and acting now can help prevent serious health problems in the future.