General Facts
- Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Source: American Cancer Society
- It often develops with little to no symptoms in early stages, making screening critical.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Rising Cases in Younger Adults
- Colorectal cancer is now the #1 cause of cancer death in men under 50 and #2 in women under 50.
Source: American Cancer Society
- Cases in people under 50 have been increasing steadily over the past decade.
Source: National Cancer Institute
Disparities in the African American Community
- African Americans have the highest colorectal cancer death rate of any racial group in the U.S.
Source: American Cancer Society
- They are also more likely to be diagnosed at later stages, when the disease is harder to treat.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Screening Saves Lives
- Screening can prevent colorectal cancer by detecting and removing precancerous polyps early.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- When caught early, the 5-year survival rate is about 90%.
Source: National Cancer Institute
- The recommended age to begin screening is now 45 years old for average-risk individuals.
Source: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
Symptoms to Watch For
- Blood in stool
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(These symptoms don’t always mean cancer—but they should never be ignored.)