So it’s just been reported in The Straits Times that free colorectal cancer test kits will be made available to the public (Free DIY kits to test for colorectal cancer, ST, March 3 2011).
For the uninitiated, the SCS is giving away free test kits. Anyone can redeem the kits and they can do so at the 56 Guardian pharmacy outlets located across the island or from your local polyclinic from 14th-18th March. If for some reason you aren’t able to make the listed dates, the kits can be collected throughout the year from the following places; the SCS centre at the National Cancer Centre Singapore in Outram or the SCS clinic located in Tanjong Pagar.
With a little research, it was found that in 2009, nearly 30, 000 people picked up the kits (yes, the SCS have been giving away freebies for some time now) and 609 people out of this number were found to have blood in their stools and promptly referred for colonoscopies. This could potentially be a lifesaver. Literally.
I for one am quite pleased that the Singapore Cancer Society is actually making things happen instead of just talking about helping the public. Add to the fact that the campaign is to run in conjunction with the SCS Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (1st – 31st March 2011), we have run out of excuses to ignore the very serious threat of colon cancer. Bravo SCS!
So why do you still not have your very own FREE test kit? Get moving!
0 comments: