Episode 16: Age Disparities in Colorectal Cancer featuring Dr. Fola May
Have you experienced age disparities in your healthcare? If you are under the age of 50, you very likely have, especially when it comes to colorectal cancer prevention. In this episode of the YMyHealth podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman engages in a vital conversation with Dr. Fola May, a gastroenterologist, distinguished researcher, and deeply involved colorectal cancer advocate at the national level for patients and colorectal cancer survivors. They discuss the alarming rise of colorectal cancer in younger adults, the importance of health literacy, and the need for early screening tests. This conversation delves into the complexities of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, the impact of genetic testing on insurance, and innovative approaches to increase screening rates, particularly among younger populations. The discussion highlights the importance of early detection, community advocacy, and the need for ongoing research to understand the rising incidence of CRC in younger individuals.
Dr. May emphasizes the significance of understanding your family history, the impact of health disparities, and the role of genetic testing in prevention. Both Melissa and Dr. May emphasize the role of personal responsibility in health advocacy and the significance of education and awareness in preventing cancer. Through this episode, they aim to empower fellow millennials with knowledge and resources to navigate their healthcare effectively.
Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Colorectal Cancer Awareness
(02:55) Understanding the Rise of Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults
(06:01) The Importance of Health Literacy for Millennials
(09:05) Navigating Family History and Polyps
(12:01) Changes in Screening Guidelines and Their Impact
(14:48) Addressing Health Disparities in Colorectal Cancer
(18:14) Financial Barriers to Healthcare Access
(21:04)The Role of Genetic Testing in Prevention
(22:51) Navigating Insurance and Genetic Testing
(25:05) Innovative Approaches to CRC Screening
(29:24) Emerging Screening Technologies
(32:16) Understanding Age Restrictions in Screening
(37:06) The Rise of Colorectal Cancer in Younger Generations
(40:54) Community Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/
Learn about this episode's guest, Fola May, MD, PhD, MPhil: https://healthequity.ucla.edu/people/folasade-fola-may-md-phd-mphil/
Have a question about today's episode? Email us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com. We will be answering all your podcast episode questions in our upcoming Q&A episode on Monday, March 31st.
Learn about YMyHealth's Founder, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman
Thanks again to our sponsor Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com