Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancers that affect both men and women. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups and is most common in people age 50 and older.
The good news? If everyone age 50 and older got regular screenings, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to encourage people to get screened.
How can Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month make a difference?
We can use this month to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and take action toward prevention. Communities, organizations, families, and individuals can get involved and spread the word.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Encourage families to get active together – physical activity may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Talk to family, friends, and people in your community about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50.
- Encourage people over 50 to use this interactive tool to decide which colorectal cancer screening test they prefer.
- Ask doctors and nurses to talk to patients age 50 and older about the importance of getting screened.
For more information, visit:
- Colorectal Cancer
Prevent Cancer Foundation, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Sponsor - Colorectal Cancer: What Should I Know About Screening?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Basic Information About Colorectal Cancer
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives [PDF – 2 MB]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Colorectal Cancer Control Program
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Personal Stories About Screening for Colorectal Cancer
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Cancer and African Americans
Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health - Tests to Detect Colorectal Cancer and Polyps: Fact Sheet
National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute - What I Need to Know About Colon Polyps
National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
Resources:
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Health Topics
- Get Tested for Colorectal Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Conversation starters
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Questions for the doctor
Healthy People Topic Area