This comprehensive resource is designed to help you educate and encourage patients to stay up to date with their colorectal cancer screenings. This toolkit includes engaging social media graphics and posts, informative handouts for patients, sample text messages for appointment reminders and outreach, and a ready-to-use press release to spread awareness in the community. With easy-to-use materials, health centers can effectively reach patients, highlight the importance of early detection, and increase screening rates to help save lives.
SOCIAL MEDIA
For North Dakota health centers, please add the tag #TurnNDBlue to your social media captions.
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Today marks the beginning of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s the second leading cause of cancer deaths, but there are ways to lower your risk. The best way you can lower your risk is by getting screened regularly, beginning at age 45. Talk with your provider about the right screening option for you. Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/prevention/index.html #ValueCHCs
X Copy:
Today marks the beginning of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s the second leading cause of cancer deaths, but you can lower your risk by getting screened. Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/prevention/index.html #ValueCHCs #cancer #healthcare
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
45 or older? It’s time to be screened for colon cancer. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get tested regularly. Ask your provider which test is right for you. Call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx to learn more. #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
The best way to #prevent colorectal #cancer is to get regularly tested at age 45. Call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx to schedule an appointment. #ValueCHCs
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Right now, you could have a polyp, a small growth in your colon or rectum. Your polyp may be harmless but could develop into colorectal cancer over time. Through regular screening, you have the power to find and remove precancerous polyps and prevent colorectal cancer. Schedule a checkup today and take control of your health! [link] #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Through regular screening, you have the power to find and remove precancerous polyps and prevent colorectal cancer. Schedule a checkup today and take control of your health! [link] #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
A colonoscopy isn’t the only option for colorectal cancer screening. There are simple, affordable options, including tests that can be done at home. Talk with one of our providers about which option is right for you. [link] #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Think a #colonoscopy is the only way to get screened for colorectal cancer? Think again! There are many screening tests available, including tests that can be done at home. Talk with one of our providers to see which is right for you. [link] #ValueCHCs #healthcare
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a great opportunity to brush up on your knowledge of colorectal cancer risk factors and symptoms of colorectal cancer. Try this quiz from the American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/colorectal-cancer-quiz.html Talk with one of our providers about any risks you recognize. #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a great opportunity to brush up on your knowledge of colorectal cancer risk factors and symptoms of colorectal cancer. Try this quiz from the American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/colorectal-cancer-quiz.html #ValueCHCs
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Did you know that most health insurance covers the cost of colorectal cancer screening? There are many test options, including tests you can complete at home. Talk to your provider about the right option for you and about what tests your health insurance covers.
#ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Don’t let questions about insurance coverage hold you back from getting screened for #colorectalcancer. Your insurance may cover many of the most common tests at no cost. Give us a call today and talk through your options. #ValueCHCs #healthcare #cancer
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Colorectal cancer screening rates have increased over the past decade, but we still have a long way to go! Do your part and encourage a loved one to get screened. Talk with one of our providers about risk factors and options. [link] #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Colorectal cancer screening rates have increased over the past decade, but we still have a long way to go! Do your part and encourage a loved one to get screened. Talk with one of our providers about risk factors and options. [link] #ValueCHCs
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer among Great Plains American Indians. Catch cancer early when it’s easier to treat. Regular screening tests starting at age 45 can save your life! Talk to one of our providers about scheduling your screening today. [link] #ValueCHCs #ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
X Copy:
Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer among Great Plains American Indians. Catch cancer early when it’s easier to treat. Regular screening tests starting at age 45 can save your life! Schedule an appointment today: [link] #ValueCHCs
PRINTABLE & SHAREABLE HANDOUTS
These materials were developed by the CDC’s Screen for Life campaign for the general public, health care providers, campaign partners, and health organizations. You can download these materials and print them at home or at a local print shop.
SAMPLE REMINDER, RECALL, AND OUTREACH MESSAGING FOR COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING
- Reminder: It’s time to schedule your colorectal cancer screening! Screening saves lives by detecting cancer early. Please call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx to book your appointment. Text STOP to opt out.
- Stay on top of your health! If you’re 45 or older, it’s time for a colorectal cancer screening. Please call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx to schedule an appointment in the next 30 days! Text STOP to opt out.
- Hi, this is <Center Name> and we see that you are due for a colorectal cancer screening as part of your primary care. We look forward to seeing you soon! Text STOP to opt out.
- Your health matters! Regular colorectal cancer screening can detect problems early. If you’re due for a screening, call xxx-xxx-xxxx to schedule. Text STOP to opt out.
- Our records show you haven’t completed your recommended colorectal cancer screening. Screening can prevent cancer or detect it early. Please call xxx-xxx-xxxx today to schedule! Text STOP to opt out.
- Are you 45 or older? Colorectal cancer screening is key to early detection & prevention. Please call xxx-xxx-xxxx to learn about easy screening options! Text STOP to opt out.
- Did you know? Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with regular screening. Talk to us about your options! Call xxx-xxx-xxxx today. Text STOP to opt out.
SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early, yet many adults are behind on their recommended screenings. [Health Center Name] is reminding residents of the importance of regular colorectal cancer screenings and encouraging everyone who is eligible to take this vital step in protecting their health.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., but with early detection, it is highly treatable. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin screening at age 45. Those with a family history or other risk factors may need to start even earlier.
“Screening can find precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer or catch cancer at an early stage when it’s most treatable,” said [Name], [Title] at [Health Center Name]. “We want to make it as easy as possible for our community members to get screened and stay healthy.”
There are multiple screening methods available, including: at-home stool-based tests (such as FIT or Cologuard), which are non-invasive and convenient, or a colonoscopy, which is the most comprehensive screening that’s recommended every 10 years for those at average risk.
[Health Center Name] offers affordable and accessible colorectal cancer screening services. For uninsured or underinsured patients, financial assistance may be available.
Residents who are due for colorectal cancer screening or have questions about their screening options should contact [Health Center Name] at [phone number] or visit [website] to learn more.
“Your health is our priority,” added [Name]. “If you’re 45 or older, don’t wait—schedule your screening today!”
