March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Although colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer in the United States, preventative screenings starting at age 45 can increase the five-year relative survival rate. Here, we'll review everything you need to know about Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, including how to get involved in your community, spread awareness, and show your support.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon (large intestine) or the rectum (the last part of the digestive tract). It usually begins as small, slow-growing clumps of cells called polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can turn into cancer. Alternatively, if abnormal cells in these areas grow uncontrollably, they can form tumors, spreading to other body parts if not detected and treated. Treatment for the initial stages of colorectal cancer may result in a temporary or permanent ostomy, depending on the severity and location of the tumors.
The risk of colorectal cancer tends to be higher in men than women, and the average age of diagnosis is around 66 years old. Still, early-onset colorectal cancer can occur and has been increasing in prevalence by about 2% per year since 1994. Some factors that could be responsible for this include unhealthy diet, problems with the microbiome, obesity, antibiotic use, sedentary behaviors, and a general increase in the consumption of alcohol.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Unfortunately, early-stage colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms. This is one reason that regular screenings can be lifesaving. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience:
- Blood in the stool (bright red or dark)
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, narrow stools)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing stomach pain, cramps, bloating
- Feeling like the bowel doesn't empty completely
If you experience any of these symptoms or have any risk factors, it's important to schedule a colorectal cancer screening with your doctor.
What to Know About National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, in 2025, an estimated 154,270 people will be diagnosed with this highly preventable disease. They will join more than 1.5 million colorectal cancer patients and survivors living today. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is so important because early detection can make a difference in prevention. In fact, many cases of cancer of the colon or rectum are preventable with a yearly colonoscopy starting from age 45.
Colonoscopy can also detect cancer at very early stages, which allows doctors to take action and fight colon cancer and rectal cancer while it's still localized. According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year survival rate of cancer localized to the colon or rectum is 91.1%. Unfortunately, the five-year survival rate drops to 65% once the cancer metastasizes. That's why experts everywhere provide recommendations for screening approximately once per year from age 45 onward. However, if you and your doctor have determined that you have risk factors for any colorectal cancer (i.e., family history, inflammatory bowel disease, or the presence of polyps), it may be better to begin screenings earlier. Your doctor can help you determine the best timeline based on your needs and family history.
How to Help Raise Awareness of Colon and Rectal Cancer
There are several ways to get involved in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and make a difference. Whether through education, event participation, or donations, every effort helps spread awareness and support research and patients. So, don't underestimate your importance. You can get involved in any of the following ways:
Get Educated
Knowledge is power! Before you can advocate for colorectal cancer and preventative measures, it's important to take the time to understand the condition. Do some research on the condition and colorectal cancer prevention to help you get ready to get involved in awareness.
Dress in Blue
Dress in Blue Day is held on the first Friday of March, which is March 7 this year. Blue represents the national allies and all they do to end colorectal cancer within our lifetime. So, put on your favorite blue shirt, accessorize with blue jewelry or hats, and match your socks and shoes to help raise awareness in your community. The more blue you wear, the better! Take plenty of pictures and then upload them on your social media with the hashtag #DressInBlueDay. You can find more information about this day here.
Get Active on Social Media
Social media can be a powerful tool for spreading awareness about colorectal cancer. Using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X, you can reach a broad audience and encourage more people to get screened.
Sharing survivor stories can provide hope and inspiration, while educational infographics help communicate key statistics in an easily digestible format. Hashtags such as #ColorectalCancerAwareness and #GetScreened are also great ways to increase visibility and connect posts to a larger movement. Even one post may help save a life!
Host or Attend an Event
Many communities and organizations host fundraising events or awareness walks to support colorectal cancer awareness and research. Participating in these events can amplify awareness and contribute to funding vital programs. Consider joining a charity walk or run in your local area or partnering with healthcare providers to organize a screening drive.
If no events are available near you, consider starting one yourself! Even a small community gathering can have a meaningful impact on awareness and prevention efforts.
Volunteer
Volunteering with organizations dedicated to colorectal cancer awareness can be a rewarding way to contribute. Groups such as the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer offer several different opportunities to get involved. Volunteers can help organize awareness events, assist with fundraising efforts, or support patients and families navigating a diagnosis.
Advocacy is another important aspect of volunteer work. Contacting policymakers to advocate for improved screening access and research funding can lead to meaningful change at the local and national levels.
Order From the Colorectal Cancer Store
Many nonprofit organizations sell colorectal cancer awareness merchandise, such as blue ribbons, bracelets, T-shirts, and mugs, with proceeds going toward research, patient support, and advocacy efforts. Wearing these items helps keep the conversation going and encourages others to ask questions about colorectal cancer prevention. You can check out some great "swag" at the Colorectal Cancer Alliance shop here.
Make a Donation
Financial contributions can also significantly impact colorectal cancer research and patient support initiatives. If you're able, consider donating to organizations that provide free screenings to underserved communities and fund advancements in treatment. Social media platforms make it easy to start a fundraising campaign—whether through a birthday fundraiser, corporate matching program, or a community-driven event such as a dinner, silent auction, or raffle. Every dollar raised helps expand awareness, support patients, and advance research toward better treatment and prevention strategies.
Join a Movement
Finally, you can support colorectal cancer awareness by signing petitions that advocate for better screening accessibility and contacting local representatives to encourage increased funding for research. Employers can also make a difference by offering free or subsidized screenings for employees as part of their healthcare benefits package. The more voices advocating for early detection, the greater the chance of reducing the incidence and impact of colorectal cancer.
March is more than just a time for awareness—it's a call to action. With education, screening, and advocacy, we can all help reduce the number of colorectal cancer cases and save lives. Every effort counts, whether by getting screened, spreading awareness, or supporting research. Talk to your doctor, schedule a screening, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
To learn more about colorectal cancers and other conditions, visit Byram Healthcare today. We also carry a range of high-quality ostomy supplies to help you feel your best.
