For immediate release: November 12, 2008 (08-181)

Contacts:
Chris Zipperer, Cancer Prevention and Control Unit 360-236-3614
Allison Cook, Communications Office 360-236-4022

OLYMPIA ¾ Early screening for breast and colon cancer can be a lifesaver. That’s why the state Department of Health is launching two projects aimed at preventing cancer deaths by providing more cancer screening and promoting screening opportunities for state residents.

In 2006 more than 900 people died from colon cancer in Washington. The state’s now offering colon cancer screenings through a network of health care providers already providing these services around the state. The colon cancer screening project began Nov. 1 and is available in seven counties: Chelan, Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, and Yakima. These services may soon expand to all 39 Washington counties.

"People should have access to cancer screening whether or not they have insurance or enough money to pay for it," said Secretary of Health Mary Selecky. "This program will help more people learn if they have cancer so they can get the care they need."

A second project recruits businesses and organizations in the community to voluntarily offer information about free breast cancer screening offered thorough the Department of Health-sponsored program. The "Ask Me" campaign, based on a model that was successfully implemented in New York, doesn’t require special training for volunteers. It also puts information about the program in locations where people already gather.

The Washington Breast, Cervical, and Colon Health Program has helped provide free mammograms, pap tests, and diagnostic services to uninsured and underinsured women ages 40-64 since 1994. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Washington women, and mammograms are currently the best way to detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage.

The 2008 Washington Legislature approved funding to expand the state screening program to include colon screening for women and men 50-64. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Washington, but can be prevented and detected early through screening tests.

The mission of the Washington State Department of Health Cancer Prevention and Control Unit (http://www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/CWP/Cancer.htm) is to reduce the cancer burden in Washington.

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