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
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
March is 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.
X Copy:
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s the second leading cause of cancer deaths, but you can lower your risk by getting screened.
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.
X Copy:
The best way to #prevent colorectal #cancer is to get regularly tested, beginning at age 45. Call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx to schedule an appointment.
Facebook / LinkedIn Copy:
Colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer for Great Plains American Indians, but it is preventable. Brandon Ecoffey, Director of Communications at Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board, says, “For our communities to preserve our traditions, we must preserve the most important thing – our health …It’s never been easier to take action and get screened, even from the comfort of your own home.”
At [health center name], we offer take-home screening options for colorectal cancer. Contact your provider to see if you are eligible.
X Copy:
“It’s never been easier to take action and get screened, even from the comfort of your own home.” Preserving your health means preserving tradition—ask us about colorectal cancer screening options.
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]
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]
Facebook / X Copy:
“You can’t care for your family and community if you’re not caring for yourself.”
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with regular screening. Ask us about your screening options. Call xxx-xxx-xxxx.
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.
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.
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!”
EXTERNAL RESOURCES
North Dakota:
South Dakota:
American Indian Cancer Foundation
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
CDC Screen for Life
Exact Sciences
- Static Monitor Display (visual display for practice computers to help prompt CRC screening conversations during March). Available in English and Spanish.
Cologuard poster
