National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
The goal of this month is to increase awareness about colorectal cancer, the fourth most common cancer in the United States.
The goal of this month is to increase awareness about colorectal cancer, the fourth most common cancer in the United States.
Date: March
Names: National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
The goal of this month is to increase awareness about colorectal cancer, the fourth most common cancer in the United States.
Origin
Colorectal cancer refers to both colon cancer and rectal cancer. “Colon cancer” indicates cancer that begins in the colon, and “rectal cancer” indicates cancer that begins in the rectum.
Colorectal cancer risk increases after the age of 50. Those who have a history of colorectal cancer, have had ovarian cancer or have inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn’s, are at an increased risk. Black people have an increased risk of colorectal cancer compared to people of other races. Smoking cigarettes also increases your risk of colorectal cancer.
The first National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month took place in March 2000. Then-president Bill Clinton declared the awareness month to shed light on this largely treatable cancer. Since 2000, colorectal cancer has been one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Each president after Clinton has declared March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by presidential proclamation.
Traditions
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance promotes getting checked for colorectal cancer starting at age 45. During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the main traditions include sharing information on social media about colorectal cancer and wearing blue. Participants are encouraged to share their stories about colorectal cancer with their community, both in-person and online.
Non-profits, medical centers and community organizations are encouraged to speak to their patients about colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer, when caught early, is incredibly treatable. However, colorectal cancer can be asymptomatic until it is in the later stages which is why screening is so important.
What to say
There is no traditional greeting for National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. To participate, spread awareness online and wear blue. Educate yourself on colorectal cancer using resources from cancer.gov, and if you are at risk, get screened for colorectal cancer.