MURRAY, KY –

Photos by Murray-Calloway County Hospital

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and employees raised awareness at Murray-Calloway County Hospital by wearing blue on GO BLUE day.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the U.S. While screenings for colorectal cancer are an important step in saving lives, only 59% of adults aged 45 years and older are up to date with screenings. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people age 45 and older.

The American Cancer Society’s estimates for the number of colorectal cancers in the United States for 2024 are: About 106,590 new cases of colon cancer (54,210 in men and 52,380 in women) About 46,220 new cases of rectal cancer (27,330 in men and 18,890 in women)

One in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will be diagnosed with colorectal (colon or rectal) cancer in their lifetime. This disease affects men and women of all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people 50 years or older.

Incidence in those younger than 50, or young-onset colorectal cancer, is on the rise. Among those under age 55, the incidence rate is increasing by 1.5% every year. According to the latest data, colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men under age 50.

Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to encourage people to get screened.

For more information about colorectal screenings, call MCCH Marketing – 270.762.1381 or call West Kentucky Gastroenterology to find out how you can schedule your appointment at 270.759.4000.