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What You Need to Know About GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs Now That the FDA Says the Shortage Is Over

(NewsUSA) - Consumers are urged to understand which GLP-1 medications are safe, approved, and legal after May 22

If you're one of the millions of Americans who have used or thought about using GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, it’s important to ask yourself, “What’s real, what’s safe, and what should I avoid?”

In 2022, growing demand combined with limited supply created a shortage of these GLP-1 medications. In response to this shortage, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permitted licensed compounding pharmacies to fill this gap and create non-FDA-approved “compounded” versions of these products. These unapproved products lack the assurances of safety and effectiveness that come with FDA-approved medicines and were only intended as a temporary fix during the shortage.  But bad actors have used the temporary shortage to mass market untested, unapproved products and even products that are meant for “research purposes only.”

Fortunately, the FDA declared the national shortage of GLP-1 medications over and said compounding pharmacies must stop mass producing and selling these compounded medications after May 22, 2025. However, the marketing of compounded and other risky, illegal weight loss products is expected to continue—leaving patients who are working hard to manage chronic diseases like obesity without a clear understanding of the facts.

Patient confusion is already a serious issue and is likely to intensify in the coming months.  A new national survey by the National Consumers League (NCL) found that widespread confusion already exists among women: more than 70% believe compounded GLP-1s are only on the market if they have been tested and proven safe, and more than half (53%) think compounded GLP-1s have received FDA approval. Neither of these claims is true.

Here are five things consumers should know to protect themselves:

  1. Mass Compounded GLP-1s Are Not Supposed to be on the Market after May 22
    While only products that are “FDA-approved” and are prescribed by a medical professional are supposed to be on the market, consumers will still have to beware of fake ads, sites, and GLP-1s. The statement “doctor approved” is a red flag.
     
  2. Only FDA-Approved GLP-1s Are Proven Safe and Effective
    FDA-approved drugs undergo clinical trials to ensure they are safe and effective. Compounded alternatives do not and they also pose more potential risks to patients.
  3. If It’s a Gummy, Chewable, Spray, Patch, or Under-the-Tongue Form, It’s Fake
    Be wary of products that claim to be GLP-1s in forms other than an injection. These are very likely not FDA-approved medications and may be counterfeit.
     
  4. Don’t Fall for Misleading Marketing
    Slick websites and social ads can make unapproved medications, and even illicit drugs, seem like the real thing. But according to NCL’s research, 85 percent of women with obesity believe the false claims made in online non-brand GLP-1 ads. Protect yourself by sticking to trusted medical providers and learning how to spot false claims.
  5. Ask Questions and Stay Informed
    Not sure if your medication is the real thing? Ask your health care provider or company selling you the GLP-1 if it’s the FDA-approved brand product. You can also reach out to the FDA-approved manufacturers to determine whether you have authentic medicine.

Both the FDA and consumers have important roles to play in stopping the spread of misinformation about GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. Now that the shortage is over, the FDA must enforce the law and its long-standing standards for compounded products. Consumers can act too, by asking questions, avoiding questionable sources, and learning how to tell the difference between what’s FDA-approved, what’s fake, and what’s a risk.

To report fake GLP-1s or learn more about how to protect yourself, check out guidance from the National Consumers League.

BookTrib’s Bites: Four Reads to Fire Up Your Summer

(NewsUSA) - Mothers of Fate“Mothers of Fate” by Lynne Hugo

After constructing a new life for herself after an affair with her married boss, Deana Wilkes is ready to make things right and meet the son she was forced to relinquish in a closed adoption 30 years ago. She seeks out Monica Connell, an attorney, to find him; but Monica's wife, Angela, was adopted herself and is certain that closed adoptions need to remain closed unless the adoptee seeks contact. She draws a red line, but Monica feels compelled by her own complicated history to help Deana.

As this wedge between them hardens, will Angie or Monica have the best custody claim to their own beloved adopted baby? Through it all, nobody knows what Deana's son wants — not even his adoptive parents.

“Mothers of Fate” vividly portrays lingering psychological wounds as characters struggle to reconcile self-determination with the sacrifices love demands. Purchase at https://amzn.to/41LurjG.

 

Surviving the Survivor“Surviving the Survivor” by Joel Z. Waldman

It started when Karmela Waldman, psychotherapist and Holocaust survivor, and her son Joel Waldman, a broadcast journalist, decided to start a podcast. It’s a bumpy start as the lovingly dysfunctional mother-son duo struggle to figure out the art of podcasting on the fly, but soon, their “Surviving the Survivor” podcast breaks out as a wildly popular true-crime hit.

Along the way, the two discover things about each other that they never knew — like how Karmela survived World War II by hiding in a boys’ Catholic school.

Mastering podcasting is one thing; figuring out the meaning of life is a challenge of an entirely different order. In real time and “on air,” mother and son engage frankly and movingly with each other for the first time as adults, discussing child-rearing, aging, illness, death and the secrets to enjoying life no matter how complicated it gets. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4iYYIkG.

 

Little Great Island“Little Great Island” by Kate Woodworth

On Little Great Island, climate change is disrupting both life and love.

After offending the powerful pastor of a cult, Mari McGavin has to flee with her 6-year-old son. With no money and no place else to go, she returns to the tiny Maine island where she grew up — a place she swore she’d never see again. There, Mari runs into her lifelong friend Harry Richardson, one of the island’s summer residents, now back himself to sell his family’s summer home. Mari and Harry’s lives intertwine once again, setting off a chain of events as unexpected and life-altering as the shifts in climate affecting the whole ecosystem of the island … from generations of fishing families to the lobsters and the butterflies.

“Little Great Island” illustrates in microcosm the greatest changes of our time and the unyielding power of love. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3XykTGc.

 

Roll the Sun Across the Sky“Roll the Sun Across the Sky” by Barbara Linn Probst

Approaching a milestone birthday, Arden Rice has seen it all: three marriages, hardship and wealth, choices she both regrets and defends, all fueled by the same fierce desire — to give her daughter the best possible life. At least, that’s what Arden tells herself.

But nothing is simple. Arden is haunted by her impetuous history, with its trail of damage and deception. Yet she’s finally made a life where she can be her best self — until the unthinkable happens, and a train engineer’s lapse in attention throws that life into chaos.

Secrets begin to unravel, and Arden finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew — along with her own role in shaping the disturbing person her daughter has become. As the stakes increase, Arden must face questions she’s spent a lifetime avoiding: Which acts define a person? Can someone be better than her worst acts? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3E4KeRp.

Balancing Parenting: Supporting Mental Health Through Shared Routines and Redistributing the Mental Load

(NewsUSA) - Parenting is among life’s most rewarding experiences, yet it can also be one of the most mentally and emotionally taxing. From managing child care and household responsibilities to juggling work and family schedules, the pressure can quickly mount—especially when the workload is uneven.

Whether in a two-parent household or navigating parenting solo, the key to protecting mental health lies in rethinking how responsibilities are managed and making space for self-care and support systems.

In homes with two caregivers, sharing duties more equitably is essential. When one parent shoulders more of the parenting or household load, stress can rise and communication can falter. Creating a more balanced routine can ease that pressure and improve overall family well-being.

Tips for better balance in two-parent households:

  • Rotate and assign tasks: Alternating responsibilities like bedtime routines, school drop-offs and pickups, and errands helps prevent burnout.
  • Check in weekly: A brief conversation about what’s working—and what’s not—helps keep both parents on the same page.
  • Make space for personal time: Even 30 minutes of downtime each day can boost mental wellness and resilience.

For single parents, the mental load can be even greater—but small changes can make a big difference.

Tips for single-parent households:

  • Create a weekly plan: A flexible but structured schedule reduces daily decision fatigue.
  • Ask for help without guilt: Whether from friends or family, seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.
  • Prioritize short mental breaks: Use quiet moments before or after bed or while your child is playing to reset and recharge.

Beyond personal strategies, access to external support—particularly child care—plays a crucial role in family mental health. According to the 2025 KinderCare Parent Confidence Index from KinderCare Learning Companies, consistent, high-quality child care is the number one resource parents say helps alleviate stress. In fact, 90% of parents report that quality child care gives them greater confidence as parents, highlighting its importance not only for children’s development but also for a caregiver’s mental well-being.

Despite its importance, access to child care remains a concern. The report found that 76% of parents believe companies should help cover the cost of care. These findings reflect a growing awareness that employer support for families isn’t just a perk—it’s a vital part of a healthy, productive workforce.

All families—regardless of structure—benefit from prioritizing mental health. That includes setting boundaries, saying no when needed, and recognizing that no parent can do it all. Sharing the load, planning proactively, and leaning on trusted resources like child care can ease the pressure and make space for joy.

Equity in parenting isn’t about perfection. It’s about building systems that are sustainable, fair, and supportive—so that every caregiver has the opportunity to thrive. For more information and resources, visit KinderCare.com.

 

Data Shows Driver Risk Trends Affecting Businesses, Fleets and Insurance

(NewsUSA) - Auto insurance costs have risen significantly over the last few years. This can be attributed to several factors, including higher repair costs associated with new vehicle technology, the potential impact of tariffs, and a growing number of incidents involving distracted driving and speeding. One of the keys to curbing the rising cost pressures is accurate data. This knowledge can assist insurers and employers in developing effective risk management strategies.

To help organizations understand the driving factors, SambaSafety, the leading provider of cloud-based driver risk management solutions, has issued its 2025 Driver Risk Report: Current Trends Shaping Roadway Safety.

The report’s findings can help everyone, including employers, insurers, and brokers, identify the root causes of dangerous driving risk. This information can help address the underlying issues and improve safety. This year’s report delivers insight into the behavioral trends behind crashes and claims, exploring the distinctions between age groups, fleet sizes, and industry segments.

“Risk isn’t random — it’s behavioral, and overwhelmingly predictable,” said Matt Scheuing, chief executive officer at SambaSafety. “The volatility in commercial auto insurance reflects the systemic risk that builds when unsafe behaviors go unaddressed. The opportunity for real improvement starts upstream, with better visibility, targeted intervention, and sustained behavior change.”

Drawing on SambaSafety’s extensive network of telematics integrations, court connections, motor vehicle records, and Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) data, the report’s key findings include:

  • An 11.1% year-over-year increase in auto premiums, with vehicle complexity, nuclear verdicts and dangerous driving behavior as contributing factors.
  • An increase in speed violations, which now make up nearly 40% of major driving violations in the United States.
  • A violation rate of 30.3% in the Southeast.
  • South Carolina increased nearly 4 percentage points over the prior year and had the highest violation rate nationwide at 50.3%.
  • A violation rate of 62.7% among younger drivers (ages 18-30 years) in South Carolina, 90% of which were for speeding.
  • Violation rates for monitored fleets across Construction, Government and Transportation and Logistics were more than 15 percentage points lower than the overall population, proving the effectiveness of proactive risk management.
  • The report examines the impact of these trends on different aspects of driver risk management, including rising insurance premiums, hiring and retention trends, and regulatory compliance, and offers a comprehensive assessment of the factors shaping driver risk and safety.


The 2025 Driver Risk Report: Current Trends Shaping Roadway Risk is available for download. For more information and to access the report, visit SambaSafety.com.

 

Critical Driver Risk Trends Affecting Businesses, Fleets, and Rising Insurance Costs

(NewsUSA) - Auto insurance costs have risen significantly over the last few years. This can be attributed to several factors, including higher repair costs associated with new vehicle technology, the potential impact of tariffs, and a growing number of incidents involving distracted driving and speeding. One of the keys to curbing the rising cost pressures is accurate data. This knowledge can assist insurers and employers in developing effective risk management strategies.

To help organizations understand the driving factors, SambaSafety, the leading provider of cloud-based driver risk management solutions, has issued its 2025 Driver Risk Report: Current Trends Shaping Roadway Safety.

The report’s findings can help everyone, including employers, insurers, and brokers, identify the root causes of dangerous driving risk. This information can help address the underlying issues and improve safety. This year’s report delivers insight into the behavioral trends behind crashes and claims, exploring the distinctions between age groups, fleet sizes, and industry segments.

“Risk isn’t random — it’s behavioral, and overwhelmingly predictable,” said Matt Scheuing, chief executive officer at SambaSafety. “The volatility in commercial auto insurance reflects the systemic risk that builds when unsafe behaviors go unaddressed. The opportunity for real improvement starts upstream, with better visibility, targeted intervention, and sustained behavior change.”

Drawing on SambaSafety’s extensive network of telematics integrations, court connections, motor vehicle records, and Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) data, the report’s key findings include:

  • An 11.1% year-over-year increase in auto premiums, with vehicle complexity, nuclear verdicts and dangerous driving behavior as contributing factors.
  • An increase in speed violations, which now make up nearly 40% of major driving violations in the United States.
  • A violation rate of 30.3% in the Southeast.
  • South Carolina increased nearly 4 percentage points over the prior year and had the highest violation rate nationwide at 50.3%.
  • A violation rate of 62.7% among younger drivers (ages 18-30 years) in South Carolina, 90% of which were for speeding.
  • Violation rates for monitored fleets across Construction, Government and Transportation and Logistics were more than 15 percentage points lower than the overall population, proving the effectiveness of proactive risk management.
  • The report examines the impact of these trends on different aspects of driver risk management, including rising insurance premiums, hiring and retention trends, and regulatory compliance, and offers a comprehensive assessment of the factors shaping driver risk and safety.


The 2025 Driver Risk Report: Current Trends Shaping Roadway Risk is available for download. For more information and to access the report, visit https://sambasafety.com/free-2025-driver-risk-report?utm_source=usanews&utm_medium=press&utm_campaign=10149515-Driver-Risk-Report-Q2-25

 

Avoiding Potential Kitchen Dangers

(NewsUSA) - Recent news has raised concerns about the safety of items that may be in your kitchen, including plastic utensils and nonstick cookware (commonly made with Teflon).

“The concerns about Teflon primarily relate to PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which was historically used in manufacturing Teflon coatings until 2013,” said David Nadler, Ph.D., a professor in the Occupational Health and Safety graduate program at New York Institute of Technology.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” are a group of chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. These coatings can be in a variety of products, such as clothing, furniture, food packaging, and non-stick cooking surfaces, among others.

“PFAS are getting a lot of attention right now, but they are just a few of many chemicals in our environment that can cause health issues,” said Nadler, who previously worked as a director within the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and at New York Tech is researching the breakdown of forever chemicals.

PFAS exposure has been linked to certain health effects, including cancer, developmental and reproductive problems, and immune system dysfunction. However, Nadler noted that more research is needed to determine how the potential effects of PFAS compare to other more prevalent chemicals.

Meanwhile, Nadler explained that newer Teflon cookware is safe to use.

“Modern Teflon cookware is produced without PFOA, using alternative manufacturing processes. But when using any non-stick cookware, it's important to avoid overheating and replace pans when the coating shows significant wear,” Nadler said. He suggests examining your Teflon cookware for signs of scratching, peeling, or other blemishes, and replacing it if you see damage. He also recommends keeping Teflon cookware in good shape by eliminating abrasive cleaning products and avoiding use of the cookware in extremely high temperatures (such as 500 degrees Fahrenheit or higher).

In addition, while plastic kitchen tools are generally safe, it is important to know what they are made of. For example, black utensils can contain potentially carcinogenic hydrocarbons. “Silicon and nylon are high-quality, stable, and safe for contact with food. Lower quality plastics, especially those containing Bisphenol A (BPA), have the potential to leach out chemicals, particularly when exposed to higher heat or highly acidic ingredients,” said Nadler.   

“Manufacturers have phased out much of the BPA in plastic utensils after public concern over the past decade,” he added. The best way to choose a utensil is to check for food-grade certification by the manufacturer. Metal, silicon, nylon, and wood are all better than black plastic utensils, Nadler states.

Nadler is one of many New York Tech researchers tackling real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

How to Prepare Now for the Storm-Induced Power Outages That Are Becoming the New Normal

(NewsUSA) - Storm seasons are getting stronger, longer, and more unpredictable. Whether it’s a thunderstorm knocking out neighborhood power lines, a tornado carving through a region, or a major hurricane threatening the coast, extreme weather can leave millions of Americans in the dark with little warning.

National forecasters are pointing to another above-average hurricane season in 2025, and experts are urging homeowners across the country, not just in coastal areas, to take action now. From spoiled groceries and flooded basements to sweltering homes and equipment failures, power outages can quickly go from inconvenient to dangerous.

In 2024, the U.S. experienced nearly 1.5 billion hours of power outages – the highest year since 2010 when Generac first started tracking this figure.

Now, just one year after Colorado State University predicted a record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season, 2025 is expected to be nearly as powerful with an anticipated above-average season. Now is the time to prepare with a plan to protect your loved ones and your home. This season is predicted to be an above-average hurricane season with an expected nine hurricanes. Four hurricanes are expected to reach major hurricane strength of a Category 3 or higher storm, which creates sustained winds of 111 miles or greater and the great risk of significant loss of life and property damage. But whether you're in the path of a hurricane, a derecho in the Midwest, or ice storms in the Northeast, the reality is clear: every home is vulnerable to outages.

“For many people, the first time they learn about backup power is when they’re already in a crisis,” said Kyle Raabe, president of Consumer Power at Generac Power Systems, a global energy technology company. “Having a plan before severe weather strikes can make a major difference in safety, comfort, and peace of mind.”

Five Ways to Prepare for Power Outages - No Matter Where You Live

Power outage experts from Generac have provided tips on how to prepare for any storm-induced power outages during hurricane season and beyond:

  1. Create a Storm Safety Plan. Identify the safest spot in your home to shelter in place. Review local evacuation routes and establish a meeting location for family members in case you're separated or need to evacuate.
  2. Build a Real Emergency Kit. Stock up on essentials: at least seven days of non-perishable food per person, three gallons of water per person, a fully stocked first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, and necessary medications.
  3. Stay Connected During Chaos. Keep phones and electronics fully charged before a storm. Have a battery-powered emergency radio on hand to stay up to date with local alerts and weather updates.
  4. Secure Backup Power. Consider investing in a portable generator or a whole-home standby system. If you already own one, ensure it’s maintained and ready. Backup power can keep lights on, refrigerators running, operating.
  5. Know How to Use Generators Safely. Never operate a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces. Keep it far from your home, away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide exposure.

It Only Takes One Storm

While forecasts grab headlines with big numbers, the truth is that it only takes one storm in the right place to cause life-altering damage. Power grid reliability is already a concern in many parts of the U.S., and storm-related outages are expected to rise with climate shifts.

To help residents and communities prepare, Generac offers readiness resources, including its Hurricane Preparedness Guide that has printable inventory checklists, comparisons on backup power options and power outage safety tips, available at https://www.generac.com/hurricane-prep.

Form, Function, Frames: Eyewear in Motion

(NewsUSA) - Historically, athletic eyewear was mostly relegated to high-impact sports—goggles for the slopes, wraparounds and shields for cycling, or protective frames for basketball. In today’s performance-driven world, it’s no longer just about function or fashion—it’s about both. As the eyewear industry continues to evolve, optical frames are being designed with movement in mind, catering not only to elite athletes but to anyone living an active, on-the-go lifestyle. More brands, like Flexon Eyewear, are creating functional and timeless eyewear styles that will seamlessly fit in an active lifestyle.

In March, Flexon Eyewear introduced its Motion collection, where sleek masculine designs meet performance and functionality. From chasing the kids in the backyard and working out to balancing long workdays and screen time, people need eyewear that adapts. The sporty-inspired Motion collection incorporates key elements like memory metal, a material that bends and returns to its original shape, and rubber temples to create eyewear that moves with you. Each element ensures a secure fit through sweat, movement, and long hours, all while offering an aesthetic that’s sleek and versatile enough for everyday wear.

The latest optical styles lean into the active design, featherlight construction, and silhouettes that nod to athleticism without being overly technical. FLEXON style E1157 is a dynamic, oval-shaped optical style that offers a sleek and modern design. Featuring a Flexon memory metal bridge, rubber temples, and adjustable nose pads for distinctive style and everyday comfort. FLEXON style E1158 is a rimless, easy-to-wear optical style that offers a lightweight and effortless look. The style is crafted with durable memory metal, to ensure flexibility and comfort, and is enhanced by rubber temples and adjustable nose pads for a personalized fit.

As consumers continue to look for gear that keeps up with their dynamic lives, athletic eyewear is becoming more than a niche—it’s becoming essential. To shop the performance-driven styles like the Flexon Motion Collection, visit eyeconic.com.

Get the Scoop on AI Innovation

(NewsUSA) - The AI+ Expo, taking place on June 2-4 in Washington, D.C., seeks to spark discussions of ideas and initiatives related to the intersection of AI, emerging technology, and national security.

The AI+ Expo is sponsored by the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in AI.

Don’t Miss the Drones

A highlight of this year’s AI+ Expo is a drone assembly workshop, where attendees can learn about the inner workings of drones, try simulators to learn and practice speed and agility skills, and watch professional pilot demos.

In addition, the Expo is hosting an interservice U.S. Military Drone Competition in partnership with the U.S. National Drone Association. The competition is open to all military service members, as well as high school and college students. Apply on the Expo website to sign up.

Engage in The Exchange: Innovation and National Security

This year’s Exchange is the fourth in a series, and brings together AI experts from the government, private sector, and scientific community to examine how to advance collaboration in pursuit of national security. The SCSP Exchanges were inspired by Dr. Ash Carter, the 25th Secretary of Defense, whose pioneering work initiated a transformational change across the U.S. government. The Exchange is set to continue the extraordinary discussions and connections made during previous events.

Hone Your Hacking Skills

The SCSP is teaming up with AGI House to co-host its third—and biggest—Hackathon yet! Join 300 hundreds of passionate builders for hands-on problem solving, rapid prototyping, and creative experimentation at the intersection of AI and real-world impact. Apply at the Expo website to secure your spot for a unique opportunity to push boundaries and build something meaningful.

Find Your New Career

This year’s Expo includes an ai+careers area for job seekers looking to level up their career as well as those seeking a better understanding of how AI is shaping the workforce.

The Talent Marketplace, hosted by ClearanceJobs, provides opportunities for meetings with employers from industry, academia, and government. Attendees can build a profile in the Cvent app to access on-site interviews, resume reviews, career coaching, and networking opportunities.

At the ai+careers Stage, attendees can join live conversations with experts on how AI and other emerging technologies are transforming work, education, policy, and security. Interactive booths provide opportunities to engage with organizations at the forefront of AI and emerging tech innovation.

Read More About It

A dedicated bookstore space will host engaging book talks, signings, discussions, and Q&As. Attendees can purchase books on AI, geopolitics, history, and technology, and meet their favorite authors.

The AI+ Expo is free and open to the public. Visit expo.scsp.ai to learn more.

Most Americans Avoid Lifesaving Colorectal Cancer Screening

(NewsUSA) - More than two-thirds of U.S. adults say they would rather file their taxes than get a colonoscopy, according to data from a new survey commissioned by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the disease.

In the survey, which included a national sample of 1,000 American adults, approximately half of respondents said that they prioritize household chores, such as laundry and childcare, over lifesaving colorectal cancer screenings, and 57% said they were unaware that these screenings can actually prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps. If Americans knew this, 98% reported they would be more likely to undergo the screening, illustrating the need for greater awareness.

The majority (63%) of adults don't know that colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men under 50 years of age, according to the survey. Even more concerning, 58% don't know that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Compounding the misconceptions, 61% incorrectly believe that screening should begin at age 50, but in fact it should start at age 45. Another alarming statistic: 58% of adults would not immediately seek medical attention if they noticed constipation, diarrhea or blood in their stool, which can be signs of colorectal cancer.

“These results reveal a life-threatening gap in public awareness of colorectal cancer,” said Christopher Lieu, M.D., medical oncologist and advisor to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. “It’s imperative that everyone understands the importance of screening and makes it a priority, so more lives can be saved,” he said.

The need for more education and awareness is even greater in minority populations, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Black adults were less likely than white adults in the survey to recognize that colorectal cancer is often not detected until the late stages because symptoms are mild (35% vs. 52%) or colorectal cancer is among the most preventable cancers (29% vs. 46%).

Black adults also reported less familiarity with the colonoscopy procedure than white adults, according to the survey. Approximately half of Black adults versus three quarters of white adults knew that the procedure involves inserting a camera into the colon, and that a day of preparation is needed to ensure an empty stomach. In addition, 23% of Black adults said they thought a colonoscopy required an in-patient hospital stay versus 8% of white adults.

Hispanic adults showed the highest knowledge gap when deciphering colonoscopy myths and facts, with 34% answering three or more statements incorrectly, compared to White and Black adults (23% for both). Hispanic adults also were the most likely to say that finding time for health screenings is difficult, with 60% citing time as a barrier.

The benefits of colorectal cancer screening are well-documented, but more than a third of adults who haven’t been screened say they are simply afraid, according to the survey. However, only 17% of those who have been screened say that fear about the experience would keep them from being screened again. 

Although colonoscopies allow doctors to remove suspicious pre-cancerous polyps immediately, people at average risk of colorectal cancer can choose from a variety of screening options that are convenient, quick and easy, including at-home stool tests like Cologuard and FIT. A doctor can provide advice on screening tests based on age, personal preference, risk factors and symptoms.

Visit getscreened.org for more information and take a free screening quiz (available in English and Spanish) to receive a personalized recommendation to share with your doctor.

 

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