COLORECTAL CANCER: Three Things You Need to Know
Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening, and highly treatable when detected early. Yet it claimed more than 50,000 lives in 2024.- Not counting some kinds of skin cancer, colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Your risk increases as you get older. Your risk is also greater if you:
- Have inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
- Are overweight or obese (body mass index (BMI) higher than 25.0)
- Are inactive (get less than 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity)
- Eat a diet low in fruit and vegetables and/or high in processed foods and meats
- Drink alcohol (any amount increases the risk of cancer)
- Use tobacco (smoking, chewing, or vaping) or are exposed to second-hand smoke
- The rate of colorectal cancer in younger adults (ages 20-54) has been increasing since the 90s. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor right away if you experience these symptoms:
- A change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Blood in or on the stool
- Abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort
- Feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely
- Weight loss and fatigue
- Get screened beginning at age 45. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps and remove them before they turn into cancer. Talk to your doctor about screening options, and whether you should begin earlier, depending on your risk factors.
Your Health Plan covers USPSTF-recommended preventive screenings at an in-network provider at 100%. Please don’t delay, schedule yours during March: #NationalColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth.
Resources:
- Putting a Colonoscopy Off? Watch this: Screen for Life
- Kaiser Permanente: Colorectal Cancer Screening Helps Save a Member’s Life
- Providence: Wellness Watch Colorectal Cancer
- SD-1 Library: Simple Screenings Could Save Your Life
BENEFIT BASICS: The Allowed Amount
Your daughter fell while skateboarding and broke her arm. A trip to urgent care and a cool, purple cast later, you’re left wondering what your bill will be. It’s all based on the Plan’s Allowed Amount which is the maximum amount the Plan will pay for a covered health care service.
How does it work? Watch our newest video What’s the Allowed Amount? for details.
Spoiler alert: You’ll almost always save money when you choose an in-network provider!
WANT TO KNOW ABOUT PPS BENEFITS? We’ll Link You Up
Who doesn’t want to save money? Or plan for a financially strong retirement? Or get access to exclusive discounts on services that keep you healthy? Yes, please!
As an employee of Portland Public Schools, you have access to many valuable benefits, like these:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Retirement Planning and Resources
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Credit Union Membership
- Exclusive Discounts
- Professional Development
- Employee Mileage Reimbursement
These benefits are available to you through Portland Public Schools in addition to your outstanding benefits through the SD-1 Health & Welfare Trust. Would you like to learn more? Simply go to sdtrust.com, click Menu, then choose from the list under My Benefits.