Scientific advances over the past 30 years have resulted in enormous progress against cancer. The American Cancer Society has reported a decline in cancer deaths for the past two years, since nationwide data was first compiled 70 years ago. These are hopeful trends, yet cancer continues to be one of our biggest health problems.

The Society, along with health care providers, community organizations and state and local agencies recognize the magnitude of this issue and have made efforts to educate the community about early detection, but ultimately it is our responsibility to take action.

The Society estimates 112,340 new cases of colon cancer and 41,420 new cases of rectal cancer will arise in 2007. Combined they will cause about 52,180 deaths. Colon cancer is the third most common cause of death in both men and women, which is why it is so important for us to get screened once we reach age 50.

Adopting a healthier lifestyle and taking action to get tested is a preventive measure and when detected early, you have more than a 90 percent chance of survival. With that said, there is no excuse why we shouldn’t be getting screened.

Many of us are not getting screened due to simple misconceptions. Often times we assume only those with a family history of cancer should be tested. The fact of the matter is majority of cases occur in people whose only risk factor is personal lifestyle or their age. Other times we believe testing is necessary only when symptoms arise. Most people with early colon cancer have no symptoms.

Although you may not experience any symptoms, being overweight and the use of tobacco are two issues that have been linked to a significantly increased risk of many cancers.

Embracing change that challenges our familiar patterns of eating, exercise and doctors visits can be difficult, but the benefit is a longer life spent with family and friends and lower chances of hearing the words, “You have cancer.”

It is essential that we join together to provide cancer information, screenings, treatment and services to those populations in California that are underinsured and underserved. We need to hear the voices from our diverse communities to truly change the course of this disease.

We can do something to continue the decline in cancer related deaths. All we have to do is get screened, and tell a friend or loved one to do the same. For more information about cancer I encourage you to contact your American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.