What You Need to Know About Early Detection
Gastrointestinal cancers are on the rise; however, they are survivable when detected early. When colon cancer is diagnosed at stage 1, patients have a 91% survival rate; when diagnosed at stage 4, the survival rate drops to 14%. DetecTogether’s 3 Steps Detect education creates awareness and gets people to the doctor, so doctors can conduct necessary exams and diagnostics in a timely way. Putting off addressing symptoms is never a good idea. If it’s cancer, cancer doesn’t cure itself and delaying diagnosis only allows it to get worse.
Insights & Advice
Q&A with MGH’s Christopher Velez, M.D.
DetecTogether sits down for a Q&A with Christopher Velez, M.D., of the Department of Gastroenterology at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Mass. Gastroenterologists are medical doctors with a specialty in diseases of the digestive system—from the mouth, to esophagus, stomach, pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, liver, small and large intestines.
Be Proactive About You Health
Dr. Justin Maykel, Chief of Colorectal Surgery at UMass Memorial Health, and member of the DetecTogether Board of Advisors, shares usable knowledge with us as part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. View his video series below.
Why Firefighters Should Get Screened
Research has shown that firefighters are 1.21 times more likely to develop colorectal cancer than the general public. It is crucial for members of the fire service to be aware of the early signs of the disease, seek medical attention if symptoms persist, and get annual screenings starting at 40. When detected early, colorectal cancer is more treatable and survivable.
Hear Mike’s Story
Learn from These Colorectal Cancer Survivors
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Eddie’s Afterglow
Delayed diagnosis cost Eddie McDonagh his life. His wife, Kimberly, reflects on their life together and shares his story to help other families avoid what happened to hers.
Hear Eddie’s Story
