UofL goes blue for a day to raise colon cancer awareness

This Friday, March 3, UofL employees are asked to do something that may make some Cardinals cringe: Wear blue. But there is a worthy cause behind the annual "Blue of L Day" -- Colon Cancer Awareness. 

March marks Colon Cancer Awareness Month. For the occasion, the Kentucky Cancer Program, University Club and Get Healthy Now are teaming up in promotion of Blue of L Day, encouraging staff and faculty to dress in blue for prizes and to raise awareness.

On Friday, employees can stop by the University Club between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and pick up a free cancer colon screening kit, learn about Get Healthy Now healthy campus initiatives and take advantage of the U Club's "open to everyone" lunch invitation.

Additionally, Connie Sorrell, director of the Kentucky Cancer Program, has put out a "Dress in Blue" challenge to each UofL department. The winning department will receive $250.   Put on your blue and share your pic via KCP e-mail kycancer@louisville.edu and photos will be posted to KCP facebook page http://www.tinyurl.com/KCPWest.

Encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to “like” your photo, as the photo with the most “likes” wins. 

Few cancers are as easily prevented as colon cancer. Yet in Kentucky, nearly 2,600 new cases will be diagnosed each year and more than 800 people will die. Colon cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women combined in the state.

Routine screening is highly effective. It is recommended that everyone age 50 and older be screened, as age is the most common risk factor. March is a good time to call your doctor and schedule an appointment.