Colon Cancer Screening Action Kit
Colorectal cancer causes more cancer deaths among nonsmokers than any other form of cancer. In New York City almost 1,500 people die each year from this largely preventable cancer. The best way to test for—and prevent—colon cancer is colonoscopy. People 50 years of age and older and people aged 40 and older with a family history of colon cancer need to get a colonoscopy.
Colon cancer can be prevented. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommends that primary care physicians:
1. Refer patients age 50 and older for a colonoscopy every 10 years. If a colonoscopy is not possible, a high-sensitivity FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test) is recommended.
2. Use a direct referral process for appropriate patients, so they can go right to the colonoscopy procedure, rather than a preliminary GI consult.
The Colon Cancer Screening Action Kit is an integral component of the Colon Cancer Screening Campaign to decrease colon cancer deaths in New York City. It includes information, patient education materials and tools for providers. Materials in the Action Kit include:
Information for Providers
- CRC Screening Posters (PDF)
The DOHMH has posters avaialbe that promote CRC screening for free to heath care providers and institutions, as well as organizations that serve communities that would benefit from colon cancer screening. To recieve free posters, please contact the Cancer Prevention and Control Program at (212) 361-2144. Click the link above for a sample. Available in English and Spanish.
- A Practical Guide to Increasing Screening Colonoscopy (PDF)
This publication offers evidence-based, expert-endorsed clinical and administrative recommendations and practical tips and tools to help endoscopy units significantly expand the use of colonoscopy to screen for and prevent colorectal cancer – while maintaining safety, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- City Health Information: Preventing Colon Cancer (April 2009) (PDF)
Outlines New York City-specific guidelines for colon cancer screening and answers frequently asked questions about screening and prevention.
- Direct Referral for Colonoscopy Procedure Form (PDF)
The direct referral for colonoscopy form will assist you in identifying patients who are candidates for direct referral. The reverse side of the form gives information on how to find a hospital or GI practice that accepts direct referrals.
- Frequently Asked Questions About Direct Referral for Colonoscopy (PDF)
This form lists common questions primary care physicians have about the “Direct Referral for Colonoscopy Procedure” form and the direct referral process.
- List of Low-Cost Colonoscopy Programs/List of Direct Referral Sites (PDF)
The front side of this form lists programs that offer low-cost colonoscopy in New York City. The back of the form lists the hospitals and institutions in NYC that accept the “Direct Referral for Colonoscopy Procedure” form.
Patient Education Information
Copies of these materials can be downloaded and reproduced. If you prefer to receive hard copies of the materials, dial ‘311’ in NYC. There is no charge to receive printed materials.
