Significance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

• Written by Mudit Handa

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Colorectal cancer is a serious health concern involving cancer of the colon or rectum. Currently, colorectal cancer has emerged as a significant critical illness worldwide. The American Cancer Society has revealed that colorectal cancer is the second most important cause of cancer death among American men and women. Timely diagnosis and proper medical attention are crucial, especially if symptoms such as blood in the stool occur. Diagnosis may include a colonoscopy and biopsy.

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is observed every year in March. National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month provides a valuable opportunity to educate the community about diseases of the colon and rectum and to promote awareness of the importance of colorectal cancer screening, prevention, and treatment.

This article will illuminate the significance of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and educate you about the risks associated with Cancer Awareness.

What is the Significance of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month aims to provide educational support to healthcare providers who treat patients with diseases of the colon and rectum.

• Additionally, it focuses on raising awareness among the general public about the causes and symptoms of colon and rectal cancer.
• Healthcare agencies are encouraged to educate the public about the importance of screening, prevention, and treatment for colorectal cancer.
• Furthermore, it encourages healthcare professionals to pursue careers in colon and rectal surgery.

Why is Awareness of Colon and Rectal Cancer Important?

Two major factors highlight the need for awareness of the dangers of colorectal cancer:

• Global Impact: Colorectal cancer has become the second most significant factor of cancer-related deaths in the US, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action. In 2025, colorectal cancer is expected to cause 52,900 fatalities worldwide.
• Disparities in Screening: Certain populations, such as African Americans and Hispanics, have lower screening rates, likely due to a lack of awareness or access to healthcare. This further highlights the need for targeted awareness efforts.

Colorectal cancer is preventable, and with proper screening and early detection, it can often be cured.

What Condition is Caused by Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer involves cancer of the colon or rectum. It is a serious health concern, and without treatment, it can lead to critical illnesses. A common symptom of colorectal cancer is blood in the stool. Therefore, seeking timely medical attention is crucial if this symptom occurs. Early diagnosis of colorectal cancer typically involves a colonoscopy and biopsy.

What are the Key Objectives of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

The key objectives of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month are discussed below:

• Promote awareness: Educate the public about colorectal cancer, its prevalence, and the importance of screening.
• Promote screening: Encourage individuals to get screened for colorectal cancer, especially those aged 45 and older.
• Emphasise prevention: The importance of a healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and abstaining from smoking to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

What is the Theme for NCCAM 2025?

While there isn't a widely publicized theme for National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the focus remains on advanced screening, early diagnosis, and advanced research into innovative treatment approaches.

How To Participate in National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

Here are some effective ways to get involved in NCCAM 2025:

• Dress in Blue: The 7th of March is the beginning of NCCAM, officially celebrated as “Dress in Blue” Day. Therefore, show your support by wearing blue, the official color for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
• Share your story: Share your experience with colorectal cancer to help raise awareness and inspire others.
• Participate in events: Join local events like walks, runs, and screenings to support colorectal cancer awareness.
• Talk to your doctor: Discuss your risk factors and screening options with your healthcare provider.

By raising awareness and promoting screening, we can work together to reduce the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer.

What are the Side Effects of a Colonoscopy?

Although colonoscopy is a safe and effective procedure for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer, some risks and complications are associated with it. Here are some potential risks:

• Bleeding: Bleeding is a common complication of colonoscopy, especially if a polyp is removed. However, this is usually minor and can be controlled with cauterisation.
• Perforation: During the procedure, a small hole in the colon wall can occur, which may require surgical repair.
• Colon Infection: As with any invasive medical procedure, there is a risk of infection with a colonoscopy.
• Adverse reaction to sedation: Some patients may experience a harmful response to the sedation used during the treatment procedure. Besides, some rare adverse side effects of colonoscopy may include the following:
• Respiratory issues: Patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions may experience breathing difficulties during or after the procedure.
• Cardiovascular ailments: Patients with pre-existing heart conditions may be at risk of cardiovascular complications during or after the procedure.
• Allergies related to the colonoscopy prep: Some patients may be allergic to the bowel prep solution used to clean the colon before the procedure.
• Post-polypectomy syndrome: This rare condition can occur after a polyp is removed, causing abdominal cramps, persistent fever, or an elevated white blood cell count.
• Colon rupture: A rare but serious complication that can occur if the colon is perforated during the procedure.
• Sepsis: In a rare scenario, sepsis may be life-threatening if bacteria penetrate the bloodstream during surgery. 

Hence, it is essential to ensure safety during colonoscopy treatment.

How to Tackle the Risks Associated with Colonoscopy?

To minimise the risks associated with colonoscopy, it's essential to follow the instructions given below:

• Follow bowel prep instructions carefully.
• Inform your doctor about any medical conditions or allergies.
• Choose an experienced and skilled gastroenterologist.
• Follow post-procedure instructions carefully.

While these risks are possible, it's important to remember that a colonoscopy is generally a safe and effective procedure that can help diagnose and prevent colorectal cancer early.

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, planning your medical expenses to ensure access to proper healthcare is essential. Therefore, having a comprehensive health coverage plan is highly recommended.

Buy a Comprehensive Healthcare Plan to Cover all Surgical Costs

Medical costs have risen significantly in recent years, outpacing general inflation. This indicates that having a comprehensive health coverage plan is crucial to managing unexpected expenses in case of complex surgery. If a critical illness such as cancer gets diagnosed, you are immediately exposed to the exorbitant treatment cost that includes hospitalisation expenses, surgical costs and ICU room rent. Hence, you must have a comprehensive cancer mediclaim plan that covers all such costs. Besides, your plan must also have a waiting period modification benefit so that you get a reduction in the waiting periods and get immediate coverage when required.

>> Also Read: Does Cancer Insurance Plan Cover Radiation Therapy?

Disclaimer: Verifying the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents is essential. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to verify the details of health concerns.