PSA: National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month—a time to focus on prevention, early detection, and real conversations about a disease that affects far too many lives. In this episode, we take a closer look at colorectal cancer (CRC), the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

While rates have declined among older adults thanks to improved screening and treatment, cases are rising in younger populations—making awareness more important than ever. We break down what CRC is, why it’s increasing in adults under 50, and the lifestyle factors that play a major role in prevention, including physical activity, diet, smoking, and alcohol use.

You’ll also learn how screening can detect and prevent cancer before it starts, what to expect from the process, and why guidelines now recommend beginning screening at age 45. Many colorectal cancers are preventable, and early action can save lives.

Recorded, Edited & Produced by Averee Bates, Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Madison McArthur, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale