March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Get Screened.
Regular screening tests for cancer can improve and save your life. Screening tests can find cancer early when it may be easier to treat. It is important to know that screening tests are done when you have no signs or symptoms of disease. But if you have symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
If you have delayed or avoided medical care because of the pandemic, talk to your doctor about safely resuming care and next steps.
Colorectal Cancer Incidence and Screening in Black Communities
African Americans are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it than other racial and ethnic groups. Racial bias and discrimination in health care as well as outside of medicine contribute to poor health for many racial and ethnic groups, including African Americans.
Getting screened for colorectal cancer can help us prevent and detect cancer early . The COVID-19 pandemic has made it harder, but there are ways to get screened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Talk to your health care provider about screening options and when you should get started. This is even more important if you have a family history or other risk factors for colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer information
Whether you or a loved one are worried about getting colorectal cancer, have just been diagnosed, are going through colorectal cancer treatment, or are trying to stay well after treatment, our detailed information can help you find the answers you need.
Colorectal cancer research
We're working to answer the critical questions about colorectal cancer: what causes it, how can it be prevented, detected, and treated successfully; and how to improve the quality of life for people who have it.
Patient programs and resources
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with colorectal cancer, or any cancer, we offer resources to help you every step of the way.
leading the way
The American Cancer Society works with nearly 80 organizations as part of our efforts to reduce and ultimately eliminate the burden of colorectal cancer. Find out more about what we’re doing to save lives.
National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable
The National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (NCCRT) was established by the American Cancer Society and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 1997. It is a national coalition dedicated to reducing the incidence of and mortality from colorectal cancer in the US through coordinated leadership, strategic planning, and advocacy.
80% in Every Community is an NCCRT initiative that continues to build on the progress and commitment from the 80% by 2018 colorectal cancer screening initiative. The focus on community re-emphasizes the shared goal of 80% of adults aged 50 and older being regularly screened for colorectal cancer, and looks for opportunities to support screening for adults starting at age 45. People with a higher risk because of family history or another reason should talk to their doctor about a screening plan that’s best for their situation.