PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Doctors here and across the country are putting out the word, take the test to prevent colon cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer in this country.

Colorectal cancer is preventable with a colonoscopy, but a third of those who should get the test, are not up to date according to Dr. Ronald Myers, a professor in the department of medical oncology at Thomas Jefferson University. He’s backing a plan to have hospitals, doctor’s offices or insurance companies help people navigate the system.

“We’ll actually help you to understand what the preparation is to do the test, we’ll help you schedule an appointment for the colonoscopy, if you miss the appointment we’ll help you reschedule.”

He says assisting people thru the process could save a lot of money, every year $200 million is spent battling colon cancer in Pennsylvania alone.

Reported by Lynne Adkins, KYW Newsradio