Mar 2023 PSA: National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) 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.

Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early. Most cases of colorectal cancer occur in people ages 45 and older, but the disease is increasingly affecting younger people.

Screening is the number one way to prevent or detect this disease early, when it’s most treatable. With early detection, CRC has a 90% survival rate.

The best thing you can do to avoid this cancer is to stay active, don’t smoke, eat a diet full of vegetables instead of red meat, and get regular colon screenings, starting at age 45, or younger if you have a family member who has had this cancer.

When it comes to colorectal cancer, the most common symptom is no symptom. That’s why colorectal cancer is called the silent killer. If you’re 45 and at average risk, get screened!

CDC Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Prevent Cancer Foundation