Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Why Early Detection Saves Lives

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month shines a light on a disease that affects thousands of Americans each year.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and deadliest cancers, affecting thousands of Americans each year. While often thought of as a condition that primarily impacts older adults, it is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people. Early detection is key to saving lives, making awareness and regular screening more important than ever. In this article, we’ll explore why colorectal cancer rates are rising among younger adults, who is most at risk, and how early screening and awareness can make a life-saving difference. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to take action for your health and encourage others to do the same.

Colorectal cancer is on the rise in younger adults.

While colorectal cancer is still most common in people over 50, it’s not as rare in younger adults as many might think. About 12% of new cases—around 18,000 diagnoses each year—occur in people under 50. Even more concerning, while overall rates of colorectal cancer have been declining in older adults, cases in younger people have been steadily increasing. The reason for this trend isn’t entirely clear, but one thing is certain: awareness and early detection can make all the difference.

The risk is higher in Black and minority communities.

Colorectal cancer does not affect all populations equally. African Americans face the highest rates of colorectal cancer of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S. They are about 20% more likely to develop the disease and 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups. This disparity is due to a combination of factors, including differences in healthcare access, socioeconomic status, and preventive care opportunities. These disparities contribute to later diagnoses, when the disease is harder to treat.

Screening saves lives.

Despite the challenges and concerning statistics, there is good news: colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Routine screening can catch the disease early, when it’s far easier to treat, or even prevent it altogether by removing precancerous growths called polyps. Recognizing the growing number of cases in younger people, the American Cancer Society now recommends that everyone at average risk start screening at age 45—five years earlier than the previous recommendation.

Who should consider early screening?

Some people have a higher-than-average risk and may need to start screening before age 45. Talk to your doctor about early screening if you have:

• A family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
• A personal history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
• A genetic predisposition due to hereditary syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
• A history of abdominal or pelvic radiation treatment

Get to know the warning signs.

While screening is the best way to detect colorectal cancer early, knowing the symptoms is also crucial. If you notice any of the following, don’t ignore them—talk to a doctor as soon as possible:

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool lasting more than a few days)
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool (can appear dark brown or black)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but it’s always best to get them checked out.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that early detection saves lives. Whether through a colonoscopy or at-home tests, getting screened is one of the most effective ways to prevent and detect colorectal cancer before it becomes life-threatening.

As we observe Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, let’s honor and support those affected by this disease. Whether through early detection, education, or compassionate care, every action counts. If you or a loved one needs support, please reach out to us—we are here for you.

About Vaughn Greene Funeral Services: For more than 25 years, Vaughn Greene Funeral Services has been providing a ministry of care to Baltimore’s African American community. As a leading local, minority- and family-owned provider, we promise to provide our highest level of service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved ones. For more information about our funeral, cremation, memorial, repast, and grief counseling services, please call us at 410.655.0015 or visit us online at https://vaughncgreene.com/.