Know the Facts about colon cancer
Not Just Your Grandpa’s Disease
- While the majority of colon cancer cases occur in those over age 45, young colon cancer is on the rise in the US. In fact, it is predicted by 2030, colon cancer will be the leading cause of cancer death in 20-49 year olds (Jama Network).
- People born after 1990 have double the risk of developing colon cancer than those in years before them, and have four times the risk of developing rectal cancer.
In Our Community
- Kentuckians and Hoosiers especially need to take colon cancer seriously. Both Kentucky and Southern Indiana have some of the highest rates of young (under age 50) colon cancer in the country. In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes our region as a hotspot for young colon cancer.
- African Americans, Latinos, and populations residing in specific regions of the Southern U.S. are disproportionately affected with CRC at younger ages. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups (American Cancer Society).
Screening could save your life & prevent suffering.
- Colorectal cancer usually begins as small growths called polyps in the colon or rectum. Screenings are tests that can find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer.
- Even if your screening reveals you have a large polyp, it is better for your doctor to discover it now so they can begin treating it before it grows, spreads, and it’s too late.
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