Colon cancer still on the rise in MS

Aug 3, 2011

A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control indicates a drop in colon cancer deaths in all states but Mississippi.

Scientists are attributing this to the state’s lack of growth in individuals taking preventative measures to combat the disease.

Nationwide, screenings have increased from 53 percent to 65 percent as of 2007, but reports reflect that only 45 percent of Mississippi’s population is seeking these measures.

Another factor contributing to such high rates in Mississippi comes from its large African-American population, as this demographic holds the highest rate for colon cancer and serves as a third of the states population.

Increasing awareness of preventative measures and services is a goal of the Center’s Agenda for a Better South, as such action serves to increase life expectancy levels of all southern states in the U.S.

Read more:

Colon cancer deaths down in the U.S. but not in Mississippi – (WDAM)