These monthly pages focus on health disparities in the Pittsburgh region. They educate readers about key health issues and inform them about research opportunities and community resources. All articles can be accessed online at the New Pittsburgh Courier Web site. The monthly series is a partnership of the New Pittsburgh Courier, Community PARTners (a core service of the University of Pittsburgh’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute—CTSI), the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh and the UPMC Center for Engagement and Inclusion.
This month, the “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on colon health—understanding the importance of screening and early detection to prevent colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum). Marcus A. Poindexter, LSW, HSV, health advocate at the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, and Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League, sat down to talk about the importance of early detection to prevent colorectal cancer.
MAP: Good afternoon, Ms. Bush. It’s always a pleasure to see you. I appreciate talking with you and hearing your perspective on important health issues that affect our community. This month the Courier health page is focusing on colon health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, African American men and women are more likely to die from colon cancer than any other race or ethnic group. The American College of Gastroenterology strongly recommends that African Americans get a colonoscopy (a screening of the large intestine) at age 45 to detect any polyps or tumors.
EB: I’m glad that we’re addressing colon health in the Courier this month. Colon cancer is an aggressive disease that is highly preventable. However, it can be treated if detected at an early stage. Unfortunately, African Americans tend to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer at more advanced stages of this disease. This decreases their chances of being cured and surviving the disease. Personally, I know the value of screening for colorectal cancer. A few years back, my doctor had a conversation with me about my risk of developing colon cancer. He shared the importance of having a colonoscopy to make sure I was clear of any unusual growths. I wasn’t so much worried about the outcome. I didn’t have any of the common symptoms, which can include continued stomach pain, blood in stool or unexplained weight loss. However, it was still important for me to be screened to determine my colon health. I encourage all African Americans over the age of 45 to have a colonoscopy.
MAP: As the health advocate for the Urban League Health Education Office, I always talk about risk reduction. These are actions that can decrease the likelihood that a person will experience disease. It’s something that’s very important to me. Often times African Americans forgo preventative treatment or screenings like the colonoscopy because they are unsure about what the experience will be like.
EB: Yes, and it’s critically important to know how to plan and prepare for this screening as it can take both time and the use of family and friends to complete the prep for this procedure. African Americans should talk with their doctors about the specifics of a colonoscopy. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek clarification. I’d encourage people to also talk with their health care providers about any concerns like transportation or scheduling that would prevent them from being screened for colon cancer.
MAP: I agree, Ms. Bush. I know this topic is one that can be uncomfortable to discuss, but it’s important to maintain a healthy colon. Thank you for encouraging African American adults to take a preventative attitude toward their colon health. I know that these health segments help all of us stay informed about health topics important to our communities. If anyone has any questions about the information on this page, email PARTners@hs.pitt.edu.
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