KDHE

TOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) recognizes 2018 Cancer Awareness Day, Nov. 7, by urging women and men of all ages to talk with their doctors about recommended screenings for cancer. Eligible women may receive free breast or cervical cancer screenings through KDHE’s Early Detection Works program.

“Cancer screenings are critical for men and women who are 40 to 64 years old,” said Suzanne Duckworth, RN, BSN, Early Detection Works Nurse Manager. “Early Detection Works offers breast and cervical cancer screenings for all eligible women. Today is the perfect time to get screened. Even if you don’t qualify for free services, you should call your doctor and ask about recommended cancer screenings—they could save your life.”

KDHE cancer survivors and supporters were encouraged to observe Cancer Awareness Day by wearing the color associated with the cancer they have battled or a love one has experienced.

Approximately 11.5 percent of Kansas adults aged 18 years and older had ever been diagnosed with cancer. KDHE supports the Kansas Cancer Partnership, a statewide coalition that is dedicated to reducing cancer disease and death through prevention, when possible, and routine cancer screenings, when appropriate. Resources for cancer survivors and their loved ones can be found athttp://kscancerpartnership.org/Cancer-Survivor-Resources. Resources highlight items needed by cancer survivors and their loved ones, including information on day-to-day needs, wellness, support, material needs and community.

The Kansas Cancer Partnership actively recruits members from across the state. Membership is open to organizations and interested individuals (e.g., cancer survivors, nurses, community volunteers, patient navigators) with special expertise and commitment to reducing the human and economic impact of cancer in Kansas. Their next meeting is Jan. 22, 2019, at the Historic Fire Station # 2 in, Topeka. Those who are unable to attend the full member meeting can consider joining one of their regional coalitions in north central, south central, and southeast Kansas, with a fourth starting in southwest Kansas soon.

Find out if you qualify for free breast and cervical cancer screenings, by calling Early Detection Works, at 1-877-277-1368. Learn how you can support efforts to cure cancer at www.cancer.org.