About Colorectal Health

With funding from the Maine CDC, the MECRCCP aims to increase CRC screening rates among Maine residents who are 45 to 75 years old

ME CRCCP Grant Program

The ME CRCCP is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Colorectal Cancer Control Program. The goal of the program is to increase the rate of colorectal cancer screening in Maine. To achieve this, the program is partnering with health systems and primary care clinics with screening rates less than 60%  to implement evidence-based interventions (EBIs) that support increased screening rates.  These focus on activities such as provider reminders, patient reminders, provider assessment and feedback, patient navigation and reducing structural barriers.  The CRC program partners and clinic staff together determine which EBIs will be most beneficial for their clinics, and the program supports implementation with funding and technical support.  The current grant runs until 8/29/2030.

Information about colorectal cancer and CRC in Maine.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early. 

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms:

  • There may be no symptoms! Early colorectal cancer often shows no symptoms. Polyps or tumors maybe be present without any signs, which is why it’s important to get screened
  • Change in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, narrowing of the stools, and/or feeling like your bowels are not completely empty.
  • Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as pain, nausea, cramping, bloating, and/or feeing unusually full, even when you haven’t eaten much.
  • Rectal bleeding: blood in the toilet, in your stool, or when you wipe with toilet paper
  • Weakness and/or fatigue; feeling tired,  weak, and/or short of breath can be signs of anemia, which can develop from bleeding inside your body.
  • Unexplained weight loss. Always seek medical attention if you are losing wight for no known reason

Lower your risk of getting CRC:

  • Screening is the best way to prevent CRC
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods.
  • Limit red meat and processed foods.
  • Drink little to no alcohol.
  • Stop using tobacco. Ask your care team about options to quit. 
  • Stay active and maintain a healthy weight

Have Questions?

Contact Us Today

Gretchen Sminkey, MPH
Program Manager, Maine Colorectal Cancer Control Program
gretchen.sminkey@maine.gov