March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is dedicated to bringing awareness to colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum, or both. It is the third most common cancer in the United States, and the second leading cause of cancer death. It is very important to know when you should get screened for colorectal cancer, because if it is discovered early it can be very treatable. All men and women of different races and ethnicity are at risk, but if you have no family history of colorectal cancer it is recommended to begin screening at age 45.

A few facts about colorectal cancer in the United States:

• The median age of diagnosis for men and women diagnosed with rectum cancer is 63. The median age of diagnosis for men with colon cancer is 68; women with colon cancer is 72.
• African Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates.
• From 2009-2013, colorectal cancer incidence rates were 20% higher for African Americans.
• Colorectal cancer death rates are 40% higher for African Americans.

To learn more about colorectal cancer symptoms, screening, prevention, treatment options, and any other information or resources, visit Colorectal Cancer Alliance.