The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department is partnering with Crusade Against Colon Cancer to announce that easy-to-use colon cancer screening kits are available at participating pharmacies for residents ages 45 to 74 through April 30.
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Lancaster County and Nebraska’s incidence and death rates of the disease exceed the national average.
“Don’t delay preventive screenings, talking with your healthcare provider about family history and screening options is one of the most powerful steps you can take for your health,” says Health Director Kerry Kernen. “There are multiple safe and affordable screening options available, including our free, at-home test kits with no prep needed.”
Colon cancer can be preventable with regular screenings or is highly treatable when detected early. State screening rates remain low with only 64% of Nebraskans age 45 to 75 and 38% of those age 45 to 54 current on their screenings.
Kernen says cases are increasing in younger adults, making early screening more important than ever. Kits are available through April 30 at the following locations:
- Hy-Vee – all locations
- Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, 3131 “O” St.
- Lincoln Pharmacy, 3300 “A” St., Suite 100
- Russ’s Market – 17th and Washington streets, 66th and “O” streets, Coddington and West “A” streets
- Super Saver – all locations
- Target CVS – 40th and Yankee Hill only
- Walgreens – all locations
- Walmart – all locations
- Meadowlark Phamacy-Hickman
- U-Save-Waverly
Free kits can also be requested online at lincoln.ne.gov/colon or by calling 402-441-8045.