Colon Cancer Awareness

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Colon Cancer Awareness

Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, begins in the colon or rectum. It often starts as small growths called polyps, which can become cancer over time. The good news is that screening can often find and remove polyps before cancer develops. That is why awareness and early detection matter so much.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to encourage people to learn the warning signs, understand their risk, and get screened on time. Awareness is important because colorectal cancer can develop without symptoms at first, which means someone may feel fine and still need screening.

Why It Matters

Colorectal cancer remains one of the most serious cancers in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026 there will be about 158,850 new cases of colorectal cancer and about 55,230 deaths in the U.S. It is also the third most common cancer in both men and women in the country.

Recent data also show concern for younger adults. The American Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer incidence is rising in adults under age 65, including younger age groups. This is one reason public health leaders continue stressing awareness and timely screening.

Common Warning Signs

Talk to a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms:

  • A change in bowel habits
  • Blood in or on the stool
  • Diarrhea or constipation that does not go away
  • Feeling like the bowel does not empty completely
  • Ongoing stomach pain, cramping, or abdominal discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Weakness or unusual fatigue

Having symptoms does not always mean cancer, but these warning signs should never be ignored.

Prevention


There is no guaranteed way to prevent colon cancer, but several steps can help lower risk:

  • Get screened regularly
  • Stay physically active
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Limit alcohol
  • Do not smoke
  • Eat a healthy diet, including fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods

One of the strongest prevention tools is screening, because screening can find precancerous polyps and remove them before they turn into cancer.

When to Get Tested

For people at average risk, the CDC and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommend getting screened from age 45 through 75. Adults ages 76 to 85 should make an individual decision about screening with their doctor based on health history and prior screening.

Some people should talk to their doctor about getting tested earlier than age 45, especially if they have:

  • A family history of colorectal cancer
  • A personal history of polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

Screening Options

There are several approved ways to screen for colon cancer. Common options include:

  • Colonoscopy
  • Stool-based tests that can sometimes be done at home
  • CT colonography
  • Sigmoidoscopy

A colonoscopy is often well known, but it is not the only option. The best screening test is often the one a person is willing and able to complete on time. If a non-colonoscopy test comes back abnormal, a colonoscopy is usually needed as follow-up.

Important Statistics

Here are a few important facts to know:

  • About 7 in 10 U.S. adults ages 50 to 75 are up to date with colorectal cancer screening.
  • In 2023, about 63.5% of adults ages 45 to 75 were up to date with screening.
  • CDC data show overall 5-year relative survival is about 65%, and survival is higher when colorectal cancer is found before it spreads.
  • Early detection saves lives because cancer found early is often easier to treat.

Key Takeaway

Colon cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable when found early.
Awareness helps people know the signs. Prevention helps lower risk. Screening helps find problems early — and sometimes even before cancer starts.

Simple Call to Action


Know the signs. Know your risk. Get screened at 45 — or earlier if you are high risk.