LLCHD and Partners Offer Free Colon Cancer Screening Kits in March
Published on March 14, 2024
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month
In recognition of March as Colon Cancer Awareness Month, the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department and partners are offering free colon cancer screening kits to residents ages 45 to 74. Colon cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Lancaster County, but it can be preventable and is highly treatable when detected early.
“Colon cancer can be a silent disease. Screening is recommended for people age 45 and older and it can help save lives,” said Pat Lopez, Health Director. “The free screening kits are easy to use with no preparation needed and can be done in the privacy of your own home.”
Kits are available until March 31 at the following locations:
- Cancer Partners of Nebraska Pharmacy, 4101 Tiger Lily Rd.
- Hy-Vee – all Lincoln locations
- Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, 3131 “O” St.
- Lincoln Pharmacy, 3300 “A” St., Suite 100
- Meadowlark Pharmacy – Hickman
- Nebraska Hematology Oncology Pharmacy, 4004 Pioneers Woods Dr.
- Russ’s Market – 17th and Washington streets, 66th and “O” streets, Coddington and West “A” streets
- Super Saver – all Lincoln locations
- Target CVS – 40th and Yankee Hill only
- U-Save – Waverly
- Walgreens – all Lincoln locations
- Walmart – all Lincoln locations
Residents may also request a free kit online at lincoln.ne.gov/colon or by calling 402-441-8045.
The free colon cancer screening kits are part of a statewide effort to raise awareness of lifesaving screenings and are available through a partnership among the Health Department, the Lancaster County Crusade Against Colon Cancer, and the Nebraska Cancer Coalition.
Incidences of colon cancer – also known as colorectal cancer – diagnosis and death, remain higher in Nebraska compared to rest of the country. Rates of colon cancer have also increased in recent decades among people younger than 50. The Nebraska State Legislature lowered the age of eligibility for colorectal cancer screening insurance coverage from age 50 to 45 in 2022. Because there are some exceptions, residents are urged to confirm their individual cancer screening coverage with their insurance company. Residents are also encouraged to contact their primary care provider to start a conversation about screening. There are multiple safe, affordable options available, including the at-home screening kits.
Learn more about colon cancer and screening options at lincoln.ne.gov/colon.