The founder of the Colon Cancer Prevention Project sees opportunities to heighten what’s already been successful screening across Kentucky.
Dr. Whitney F. Jones said the distribution of 1000 at-home colorectal screening test kits through funding by the Exact Sciences Corporation will benefit more uninsured and underinsured Kentuckians. “A lot of people still have issues with the COVID and don’t want to go to hospitals so these take it home tests are critically important for us to catch up on screening. And also, as you know, many insurances in Kentucky already cover at 45, some at 50,” said Jones.
Jones noted there’s a move to ensure screening coverage at age 45 for someone who doesn’t have a family history of colon cancer. Jones said the Commonwealth’s colorectal screening rates have more than doubled to about 70% and mortality has fallen 33% over the past 20 years.
Jones added it’s important to get tested whether it be through an at-home kit or the outpatient colonoscopy procedure. He said for those with a family history or other risk factors, a colonoscopy is needed.
Here's more with Colon Cancer Prevention Project Founder Dr. Whitney F. Jones:
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