Why Colon Cancer Awareness Month Matters
Every year, thousands are impacted by colon cancer or colorectal cancer, a disease that is largely preventable and treatable when caught early. Colon Cancer Awareness Month 2025 serves as a pivotal time to educate, encourage preventive action, and inspire change. Recognizing the importance of this dedicated month can help save lives. This post explores colon cancer, its risk factors, and how you can actively protect yourself and others.
Understanding Colon Cancer
Colon Cancer Statistics 2025
Colon cancer remains a significant health concern worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer statistics for 2025 estimate that over 150,000 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with the disease, with nearly 50,000 losing their lives to it.
ACS also states that colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. for both men and women.
These numbers are a clear reminder of how important early detection and regular screenings are. They can save lives by lowering death rates. Around the world, colon cancer is still one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, showing why education and taking action for your health matter so much.
Knowledge is power when it comes to colon cancer. Here’s what you need to know:
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of colon cancer, including:
- Age: Risk increases after age 45.
- Family history: A family history of colon cancer or polyps raises your likelihood of developing the disease.
- Lifestyle: Physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and an unhealthy diet contribute to elevated risk.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, also increase risk.
Symptoms to Monitor
Early stages often show no symptoms, but signs may include:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool).
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.
- Unexplained abdominal pain or cramping.
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
How Awareness Campaigns Drive Early Detection
Every March Colon Cancer Awareness Month sheds light on the importance of a regular colon cancer screening and education. Campaigns during this month focus on:
- Removing stigmas and misconceptions around colonoscopies and other screening methods.
- Encouraging conversations about personal and family health histories.
- Equipping communities with valuable resources on prevention and detection.
The Importance of Early Screening
Although colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., but early screening can make a significant difference. By detecting precancerous polyps or catching cancer early, screenings can save lives.
Experts recommend that people with average risk start regular screenings at age 45, while those with higher risk factors may need to begin sooner. Taking action early is key to prevention and effective treatment.
Screening options include:
- Colonoscopy (every 10 years): The gold standard for detecting and removing precancerous growths.
- Stool tests such as FIT or gFOBT (annually): Non-invasive indicators for early detection.
- CT colonography (every 5 years): A virtual imaging option to examine the colon and rectum.
Turning Awareness Into Action
Raising awareness is only part of the equation; taking action helps create real change. Here’s how you can get involved:
Schedule Your Screening
If you’re over 45 or have risk factors such as family history, now is the time to schedule your colonoscopy with a gastroenterologist.
Adopt Healthy Habits for Colon Health
- Eat a fiber-rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit red and processed meats to reduce your risk.
- Exercise regularly and aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.
Share the Message
Encourage family and friends to get screened. Spread awareness through social media or local events.
Support the Cause
Volunteer for local awareness campaigns or donate to organizations dedicated to colon cancer education and research.
Empowering Hope Through Awareness and Action
Colon Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to emphasize the power of early detection and lifestyle changes in reducing colon cancer risks. Through proactive screening, informed choices, and community advocacy, we can make strides in combating this preventable disease.
Protect your health today. Schedule your colonoscopy now and take the first step toward better colon health. If you’re in search of a trusted gastroenterologist in Chesapeake or Virginia Beach, schedule your colonoscopy with GATGI by calling (757) 547-0798. Early detection can save lives!
