4/4/2008 12:03:00 AM
Locals go to Columbus to fight for Colorectal Cancer Screening Coverage
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| Beth Gurganus (right) and Linda Glorioso (left), of Lima, spend a few moments with one of Sen. Steve Buehrer’s staff members before sitting down with him to discuss the legislation. |
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BY JILL DEWERT
Times Bulletin Multimedia Editor
jdewert@timesbulletin.com
VAN WERT - American Cancer Society Volunteers Angela Snyder and Beth Gurganus, who also work at the Van Wert County Hospital, got a chance to share concerns about colorectal cancer screening coverage with Ohio officials on Tuesday.
The lobby day is held each year. Advocates and legislatures gather from around the state to address a pressing need.
Snyder and Gurganus traveled to the Statehouse in Columbus for a series of meetings with officials like Lynn Watchman and Steve Buehrer.
Tuesday's meetings were centered around the legislation introduced by Senator Kevin Coughlin, (R) Cuyahoga Falls, who is the chair of the Senate Health, Human Services and Aging.
The legislation, Senate Bill 278, would require insurance companies to cover the full range of colorectal cancer screenings.
"Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Ohio," commented Snyder. "It can be prevented through proper screenings. If those aged 50 and older were screened, the death rate (from colorectal cancer) would plummet by half."
According to the American Cancer Society, regular colorectal cancer screening or testing is one of the best ways to help prevent colorectal cancer. Some polyps or growths can be found and removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer. Screening can also help find colorectal cancer early, when it is more likely to be cured.
"They are very generous with their time," said Snyder regarding the state officials. "It's a full day. We have a briefing and then meet with legislators from the area. They see so many bills. We provide a face to their district, to the people they're representing."
Snyder became involved with the American Cancer Society after her brother got cancer. He is now a leukemia survivor. Snyder's previous job and her current job have also contributed to her volunteer efforts.
"It's nice to be able to do something about it, to bring awareness," said Snyder. "Around 6,660 Ohioans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year - 2,600 of them aren't going to make it."
The various colorectal cancer tests, including screening and flexible sigmoidoscopy (flex-sig), range from around $22 to $240 dollars. A colonoscopy, a longer version of the sigmoidoscope, is more expensive.
Time frames for getting such tests range from every year to every 10 years. The American Cancer Society recommends that people who have a family history of colorectal cancer should check with their doctor for advice about when and how often to have screening tests.
"Catching it early saves you millions. It's 10 times as much to treat later," said Snyder. "And the survival rate is more than 90 percent if it's caught early."
Snyder said there were around 150 advocates at Tuesday's meeting in Columbus.
"It was outstanding. It was a great way to get our point out and the importance of the bill, and other American Cancer Society activities," said Snyder. "Anytime we can work with a legislator to make things like this more affordable and accessible, it's important."
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