March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

OncoDaily joins the oncology community in raising awareness about colorectal cancer (CRC), a disease that affects the colon (large intestine) or rectum.

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In the United States, it ranks just behind lung cancer as the second deadliest cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 152,810 people in the U.S. were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2024, with approximately 53,010 deaths.

The Importance of Awareness

Raising awareness is crucial because colorectal cancer is often preventable and highly treatable when detected early. However, many people remain unaware of the risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of screening.

• Encouraging early screening can save lives.
• Reducing stigma can help more people seek medical advice.
• Advocating for better access to care ensures more people receive timely treatment.
• Supporting those affected helps patients and caregivers feel less alone.

Join the movement! Whether it’s by wearing blue, sharing information on social media, or encouraging loved ones to get screened, every action counts in the fight against colorectal cancer.

Why Blue? Blue symbolizes hope and support for those affected by CRC. Wearing blue, sharing information, and sparking conversations help raise awareness, break the stigma, and promote early detection.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:

• Age – Most cases occur in individuals over 50 years old.
• Family History and Genetics – A family history of colorectal cancer or genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) increases risk.
• Personal History – Those with a history of colorectal cancer or certain polyps are at higher risk.
• Lifestyle Factors – Unhealthy habits such as a diet high in processed meats and low in fiber, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to risk.

To learn more about the connection between processed meat and cancer, read our article: “Does Processed Meat Cause Cancer? Myths and Facts.“

Symptoms to Watch For

Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages, making regular screenings crucial. Common symptoms include:

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool)
• Blood in stool (bright red or dark, tar-like)
• Persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or cramps
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or low energy levels, even with adequate rest
• Iron deficiency anemia, leading to weakness and paleness

If you or a loved one experience symptoms or have risk factors, speak to a healthcare provider about screening options. Early detection can make all the difference.

Diagnosis

Several diagnostic methods help detect colorectal cancer, including:

• Physical Examination – Checking for signs of colorectal cancer, such as abdominal masses or tenderness.
• Imaging – Abdominal ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI can help visualize tumors and assess cancer spread.
• Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy – Direct examination of the colon to detect polyps or tumors.
• Biopsy and Histopathology – A tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
• Molecular Testing – Identifies genetic mutations or biomarkers that can help guide targeted treatment.

Treatment and Care

The choice of treatment depends on the type, progression of the cancer, and the patient’s medical history. Early detection improves treatment outcomes.

• Surgery – Often the primary treatment in early-stage colorectal cancer if the tumor has not spread.
• Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy) – Used to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells, sometimes combined with surgery.
• Chemotherapy – Helps destroy cancer cells and is often used for advanced disease.
• Targeted Therapy – Focuses on specific cancer cell markers to block tumor growth.
• Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to fight cancer more effectively.

Surgery is the primary treatment in the early stages, while chemotherapy and radiation therapy can help shrink tumors or manage advanced disease. Personalized treatment plans based on genetic and molecular testing are becoming increasingly important in colorectal cancer management.

Read more about immunotherapy for colorectal cancer.

The Importance of Screening and Prevention

Regular screening saves lives by detecting colorectal cancer early when treatment is most effective.

• The five-year survival rate for localized colorectal cancer is 91.1%.
• If cancer spreads beyond the colon or rectum, survival rates drop significantly.
• Overall, the five-year survival rate is 65%.

Preventive measures include:

• Eating a healthy diet – High in fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
• Avoiding smoking – Tobacco use increases colorectal cancer risk.
• Staying active – Regular physical activity supports overall health.
• Limiting alcohol consumption – Reduces cancer risk.
• Minimizing exposure to environmental risks.

To summarize all of the above, watch the educational video by OncoDaily and the Colorectal Cancer Alliance about CRC.

Around the world, numerous organizations, communities, and people are uniting to raise awareness about colorectal cancer. Here are some highlights from social media that showcase the enthusiasm and commitment driving the campaign:

Fight Colorectal Cancer:

“For two decades, Fight CRC has been at the forefront of raising awareness and advocating for change during March, colorectal cancer awareness month. Fueled by a relentless commitment to end colorectal cancer. As we celebrate two decades of advocacy, we invite you to reflect on our shared milestones and look forward to what’s next.

From day one, we’ve been a voice for change – pushing for crucial policy advancements, supporting innovative research, and ensuring the stories of survivors and caregivers are heard loud and clear.”

Colorectal Cancer Alliance:

“‘We were newlyweds when I started getting some alarming symptoms; blood in my stool, change in bowel movements, and extreme bloating. I went to my doctor, who treated me for hemorrhoids. When I still had no relief, I went back to my doctor, who referred me to a Gastroenterologist – however because I was ‘young and healthy,’ I had to wait six months for an appointment.

In the meantime, my symptoms did not let up, and I knew something was off. I tried two different doctors, went to the ER, and pleaded with my doctor again. Everywhere I turned I was told that bleeding is common and nothing serious, and sent me on my way. After several doctors reassured me that I was too young for my symptoms to be anything serious, my husband and I decided to carry on with life. We found out we were pregnant with our first child in March 2019 and were so excited about our future.

However, at 10 weeks pregnant, a mass was found in my rectum, and they were sure it was cancer. After all of the initial tests and scans, I was diagnosed with Stage III colorectal cancer at 32 years old.

After my diagnosis, I was quickly thrown into making important long-term decisions about treatment and fertility. Since I needed both radiation and chemo, we had to terminate our pregnancy at 13 weeks. Since my treatment would leave me in immediate menopause and infertile – I was lucky enough that my team gave me two weeks to do a crash course egg retrieval so one day we could have the chance of having our family.

My cancer treatment consisted of 25 rounds of radiation and chemo together (every day for five weeks), a lower anterior resection with a temporary loop ileostomy, six months of further chemotherapy (CAPOX), and a second surgery to reverse the ileostomy.

I have recently celebrated five years of clean scans and my husband and I are expecting our beautiful rainbow baby via surrogacy in May 2025. We are slowly trying to take our lives back, one step at a time.

Cancer is complex – it will always be part of my life whether I like it or not. Despite no one wanting to be part of this club, I have met some of the most amazing people in this community and I am so thankful that we all have each other.’ – Cat P.

Make a gift to the Alliance this March. Your gift will help promote the importance of prevention, increase access to life-saving screening methods, and invest in needed research to end colorectal cancer in our lifetime.”

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center:

“Kyle David Rising-Moore faced colorectal cancer with fierce determination and an irreverent sense of humor. His journey began with what he called textbook symptoms—cramping, hemorrhoids, and bleeding.

At a friend’s suggestion, he called Dr. Nivedh Paluvoi, a colorectal surgeon at Sylvester. A CT scan and bloodwork soon confirmed the diagnosis—stage 4 Colorectal Cancer that had spread to his liver. He met with surgical oncologist Dr. Jashodeep Datta, MD FACS FSSO, and oncologist Dr. Agustin Pimentel, who made the plan clear. Dr. Pimentel said, ‘It’s an aggressive cancer, and we’ve got to attack it.’

For Kyle, being treated at Sylvester meant more than just receiving care—it gave him a voice. Today, Kyle has no evidence of disease and is the author of Beyond the Storm: A Life in Full Color.

‘I wrote it during hurricane season,’ he says. ‘We see a hurricane coming. It wipes us out. And then we pick ourselves up.’ Kyle’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of taking charge of your own health. Read more about his journey here.”

Yüksel Ürün:

“By 2030, colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer death in US adults aged 20-49. The risk keeps rising—why? Lifestyle, environment? Stay alert: blood in stool, bowel changes, weight loss matter!”

Agenus:

“Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, placing a significant burden on patients, families, and the healthcare system.

As we recognize Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, advancing education, and driving innovation in treatment options for those impacted by this disease.”

Carmen Monge-Montero:

“March is Blue March, a time to raise awareness about colorectal cancer. And what better way to do it than by sharing the inspiring story of Katell Maguet?

I met Katell at the Inspire2Live conference, where her experience as a researcher and patient advocate truly stood out. I am very happy to interview her and share her story with all of you.

Originally from France, Katell is a researcher and patient advocate based in the Netherlands.

Diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer at 40, she went through three years of treatment and seven surgeries.

She shares what it was like to navigate cancer as a migrant in the Netherlands and highlights the stigma surrounding colorectal cancer, especially among young people.

Katell is a patient advocate working to amplify the voices of patients and healthcare professionals. By combining her multidisciplinary research background with her personal journey, she is driving change in patient care.

Outside of advocacy, she finds joy in hiking, cycling, and diving. And now, she’s taking on a new challenge: On March 15, she will ice skate to raise funds and awareness for colorectal cancer research with MDL Fonds!

Together, we can make a difference. Will you join her?

Support her here at Voormdlfonds.

Watch our full conversation on MANO!”

National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR):

“Colorectal cancer incidences are on the rise among younger and younger populations. Know the facts about the third most common cancer in the US to help protect yourself and others against this disease.

Visit to learn more and see what NFCR-supported researchers are doing to address this problem.

Together we can make cures possible for ALL types of cancer.”

The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research:

“More young adults than ever are being diagnosed with #colorectalcancer and other deadly cancers. The causes of this sharp rise in cancer rates — and how to best prevent and treat early-onset cancer — remain unknown.

One thing we do know: there’s no time to waste. That’s why we’re focusing significant attention on early-onset disease, including by co-hosting an interdisciplinary conference this fall with the European Association for Cancer Research. Register now.”

Mila Ogalla Toledo:

“Colorectal cancer (CRC) is often thought to mostly affect older adults, but health statistics in Europe show that it’s actually on the rise among younger people, especially those under 30.

Even though the rates are decreasing in individuals aged 70 and above, the misconception that CRC mostly affects older adults still persists.

It’s really important to listen to your body. Trust yourself, trust your gut. You know your body better than anyone else. So, if you are experiencing symptoms like bloating, constipation, abdominal pain, low energy, or fatigue, and they persist, keep seeking medical help until you get the answers you deserve.

Signs to watch for:

• Changes in bowel habits
• Dark feces
• Blood in stool
• Persistent stomach pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and early detection can save lives.”