Trek Through A Big Colon And Learn About Screening At Indiana State Fair Sunday

Colorectal cancer is a ride no one wants to take, but knowing the symptoms and getting screened can prevent America’s second-deadliest cancer and save lives. 

That’s why the Colorectal Cancer Alliance will inflate it’s huge, walk-through colon at the Indiana State Fair this Sunday and share information about free screenings for qualified Indiana residents.

Fairgoers can trek through the inside of a giant colon and learn about common gastro-intestinal issues and cancer. Alliance staff and volunteers will be available to answer questions and help visitors learn about the importance of screening as a means for prevention.

Free colorectal cancer screenings in Indiana 

Despite a high incidence rate, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers, if it’s detected early enough through screening. In Indiana, an estimated 3,360 people will be diagnosed with the disease in 2019, and 1,110 may die, according to the American Cancer Society.

Through 2019, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is partnering with the Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation and the Little Red Door Cancer Agency to save lives and screen hundreds of uninsured Hoosiers for colorectal cancer.

Individuals wishing to participate in this screening campaign can apply by calling (877) 422-2030. 

Patients who test positive during an initial, free FIT test will receive a low-cost follow-up colonoscopy. A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) tests for blood hidden in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. The FIT test is conducted at home and requires no preparation.

If the patient is diagnosed with cancer from the colonoscopy and resides in one of the 14 counties served by Little Red Door Cancer Agency, he or she will receive assistance from one of their patient navigators. Others will receive navigation from the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. 

Big Colon Tour at the Indiana State Fair:

What: National nonprofit Colorectal Cancer Alliance inflates its big colon, providing visitors with an unusual view on gut health, and discusses its free screening program for qualified Indiana residents. 

Where: The Alliance and its big colon will be located along State Fair Boulevard, near the West Pavilion cattle barn. 

When: The colon will be inflated Sunday from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., with staff and volunteers on site. 

About the Colorectal Cancer Alliance

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is a national nonprofit committed to ending colorectal cancer. Working with our nation of passionate allies, we diligently support the needs of patients and families, caregivers, and survivors; eagerly raise awareness of preventive screening; and continually strive to fund critical research. As allies in the struggle, we are fiercely determined to end colorectal cancer within our lifetime. For more information, visit colorectalcancer.org.

Photo courtesy of Indiana State Fair.