March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.  In the USA, this disease remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women.  According to the American Cancer Society’s latest statistics for 2012, there are 103,170 new colon cancer cases, 40,290 new cases of rectal cancer and 51,690 deaths from the disease.  The good news is that deaths have been steadily declining as more people get screened and as treatments improve.

Did You Know?

• An aspirin taken every other day for 20 years may cut your risk for getting the disease by 50%.
• Women taking Estrogen Replacement Therapy for more than 10 years may reduce their risk for colon cancer by 55%.
• Studies have shown have a strong link between obesity and the risk of colon cancer, particularly for men who carry too much weight in their midsection.
• 80% of all colorectal cancers are preventable through early detection/screening.
• 41% of patients living with the disease for 3 years or more report issues with daily living and 80% have mobility issues.

The role of the therapy professional in colorectal cancer survivorship is undisputed.  As experts in the assessment of daily living activities, rehab therapists are best qualified to devise individualized programs of exercise and leisure activities that support their patient’s overall emotional and physical recovery. They are uniquely qualified to design programs for their patients that encourage mobility and speed up recovery.

If you are interested in looking for new opportunities in the field, let Centra help you make a difference in the lives of patients call us at 800 535 0076 or search for a position at www.centrahealthcare.com/jobs.