DID YOU KNOW?
Colorectal cancer causes over 50,000 deaths in the U.S. every year, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths when excluding skin cancers. [2] The good news? It’s one of the most preventable cancers — if caught early.
STAY INFORMED
- Colorectal cancer typically affects older adults, but it can occur at any age — and cases among people under 50 are rising. [1]
- Symptoms include persistent diarrhea, constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Many people experience no symptoms in the early stages. [1]
- Risk factors include age, family history, diet low in fiber and high in red or processed meats, smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity.
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Eat a Fiber-Rich, Plant-Based Diet
- Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains support digestive health and reduce colon cancer risk. Avoid highly processed foods. [1]
2. Limit or Avoid Alcohol
- Heavy drinking is a known risk factor for colon and other gastrointestinal cancers. If you drink, do so in moderation. [1]
3. Don’t Smoke
- Tobacco use increases your risk of multiple cancers, including colon cancer. Quitting can reduce your risk over time. [1]
4. Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Exercise helps keep digestion moving and regulates body weight, both of which reduce colorectal cancer risk. [1]
COLON CANCER SAFETY REMINDER
Colon cancer is often silent in its early stages — but early screening can detect it when it’s most treatable. If you’re over 45 or have a family history, talk to your doctor about screening options like colonoscopy or stool tests. Prevention starts with awareness and action.