Preventive Health Screenings

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death by cancer in the United States. However, it is preventable when utilizing a screening colonoscopy procedure that results in early detection and removal of colon polyps, the precursor to colorectal cancer.

In 2001, Marathon's Health Services organization, in cooperation with the Indiana Gastroenterology Research Foundation (IGRF) established a free colorectal screening program for eligible Marathon employees, retirees and their spouses.

The program also assists with research of the efficacy of early detection and screening of colorectal cancer and in examining risk factors for developing colorectal cancer. Data obtained from willing Marathon participants is used by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers studying colorectal cancer under a grant funded by the National Cancer Institute.

The American Cancer Society recently reported that for the second year in a row, cancer deaths in the United States have dropped, with the largest decrease being in colorectal cancer. Officials with the Cancer Society and other experts attribute the decline to early detection and removal of colon polyps before they develop into colon cancer, and to improved treatment.