
March is observed as " Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month".
Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Sometimes it is called colon cancer for short.
Globally, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer, making up about 10% of all cases. In 2018, there were 1.09 million new cases and 551,000 deaths from the disease. It is more common in developed countries, where more than 65% of cases are found. It is less common in women than men.
Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms. When they occur, symptoms may include:
- Blood in or on stool
- Persistent unusual bowel movements like constipation or diarrhea
- Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away
- Losing weight for no reason.
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.
To raise the profile of this disease and encourage screening, President Clinton designated March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in February 2000. Since then, it has grown to be a rallying point for the colorectal cancer community, where thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers, and advocates join together to spread colorectal cancer awareness.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month which is represented by the dark blue ribbon. We can use this month to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and take action toward prevention. Wearing a dark blue ribbon is a great way to spread the word and help us support the survivors and remember those lost to colorectal cancer.