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March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Prevent Cancer Foundation

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Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the Nation. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people age 50 and older.

If all men and women age 50 and older were screened regularly, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to encourage people to get screened.

Make a difference! Spread the word about strategies for preventing colorectal cancer and encourage communities, organizations, families, and individuals to get involved.

How can Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month make a difference?

We can use this month to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and take action toward prevention – both at home and in the larger community.

Here are just a few ideas:

  • Encourage families to get active together – exercise may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Talk to people in your community about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50.
  • Ask doctors and nurses to speak to people age 50 and older about the importance of getting screened.

How can I help spread the word?

We’ve made it easier for you to make a difference. This toolkit is full of ideas to help you take action today. For example:

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Get the Word Out

  Sample Tweets

Starting at age 50, get tested regularly for colorectal cancer. Learn more: http://1.usa.gov/11Y4avW.

Q. What are screenings?
A. Screenings are medical tests that check for diseases. More: http://1.usa.gov/YF2MIq

Planning a grocery store trip this weekend? Prevent colorectal cancer by choosing foods low in fat and full of calcium and fiber.

Share your newfound love for fruits and veggies with a loved one – send this free e-card: http://1.usa.gov/11Y4gnq

Take action to get active. Find your fitness level and see what you can do starting today: http://1.usa.gov/UNrlVO

Health Tip: Write down your reasons for quitting smoking. More actionable steps: http://1.usa.gov/YJywLo

Did you know that colorectal cancer screening is covered under the health care reform law? Learn more: http://1.usa.gov/qWpEjb

  Web Badge

  • Add this free Web badge to your Web site, blog, or social networking profile to show your support for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
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Get Involved

Take action to prevent colorectal cancer.

  1. Contact local doctors’ offices and ask them to share colorectal cancer prevention information with their patients.
  2. Host a Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month event at a local senior center. Give out information about colorectal screenings, and ask a doctor or nurse to talk about the importance of getting screened.
  3. Hold a cooking demonstration with low-fat foods full of calcium and fiber.
  4. Host an information night at your local library to talk about ways to get more people in your community screened for colorectal cancer.
  5. Partner with local African American community organizations to encourage people to get screened for colorectal cancer.

Adapted from the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
Contact the Prevent Cancer Foundation at info@preventcancer.org for more information and materials.

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