Finding the right words may not seem easy, but a simple conversation about getting checked for colon cancer can save a life. A recent poll by Leger Marketing reports nearly half of Canadians 50 to 74 are not comfortable suggesting loved ones get checked for colon cancer because they are afraid of embarrassing them. They shouldn't let this stop them. The poll also showed that Canadians would rather talk about getting checked for colon cancer than about relationship problems, weight loss or money.
According to the Leger Marketing poll, starting a conversation about getting checked for colon cancer is easier than you think:
• For those struggling withwhereto have the conversation, you might try starting it at home. 60 per cent of Canadians polled said they preferred to have such conversations at home where they could talk without distractions. The next most popular option was talking over a meal or coffee (18 per cent).
• For those struggling withhowto have the conversation, you might try using the "doctor said so approach". Thirty five per cent of the Canadians polled said they would prefer this approach to start a "colonversation," initiating the conversation with something like: "Since I'm over 50, my doctor insisted I do a colon cancer screening test…have you done one?"
Who do Canadians talk to when it comes to their health? This same poll indicates:
• Overall, 39 per cent of those polled would prefer to discuss health topics with their spouses or partners. The next most popular choice was their doctor or a friend (each at 36 per cent).
• 71 per cent of men feel most comfortable discussing health topics with their spouses or partners.
• 45 per cent of women feel most comfortable discussing health topics with a friend.
"Who says that talking about the health of your colon is awkward?" asks Stuart Knight, author ofYou Should Have Asked – The Art of Powerful Conversation. "Unfounded fears have hindered us from having 'colonversations' with loved ones even though they can change the course of our lives, and even enrich relationships. We want people to talk colon health with one another. It could save a life."
All Canadians should be ready and willing to talk about colon cancer screening. More information can be found online at the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer's new online resource – .
