OPINION: My husband died at 48 from colorectal cancer. FIT Test is a lifesaver for others
Eleven years ago, my life was forever changed when I lost my beloved husband, Len Atkins, to colorectal cancer. He was only 48, a time when most people wouldn't even consider a colonoscopy.
It's a loss that I carry with me every day, a reminder of the importance of early detection and screening in the fight against this deadly disease.
Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under the age of 50 and second for women under 50, according to the Colon Cancer Coalition .
And it doesn't seem to have any signs of slowing – nearly double the number of adults under 55 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer compared to a decade ago. Yet, it is one of the most preventable cancers, with early detection leading to significantly higher survival rates.
Products like ColoTest provide a cancer detection option
The FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) test is a convenient, easy to use tool that can make screening more accessible to people of all ages.
New options, like Colo T est , are available over the counter at local Walmarts or online via Amazon.
They work by detecting invisible blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps.
While the FIT test is not a substitute for a colonoscopy, which remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, it offers a valuable alternative, especially for individuals under 50 who may not be covered for colonoscopies by their insurance.
Testing is important, but so is advocacy
Studies, such as one from the American Gastroenterological Association , have shown that regular FIT screening can reduce the risk of dying from colorectal cancer by up to 60%. Yet, despite its proven effectiveness, FIT testing is still underutilized.
One of the main barriers to FIT testing is awareness — or, rather, the lack thereof. Many people are simply unaware of the existence of the FIT test or underestimate its importance in cancer prevention. This is where advocacy and education play a crucial role.
Organizations like Man Up To Cancer , which I am proud to support, are working tirelessly to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and the importance of early detection. Through community outreach programs, educational workshops, and financial support for screening initiatives, we empower individuals to take control of their health and prioritize preventive care.
As I reflect on Len's legacy and the countless others who have been affected by colorectal cancer, let us recommit ourselves to the fight against this devastating disease and spread the word about the power of early detection. Together, we can make colorectal cancer a thing of the past.
Yvette Davis-Atkins the founder of Len Atkins Memorial based in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee.
