Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer conditions in the United States, yet it remains one of the most preventable.

According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, many cases can be avoided with early detection and healthy lifestyle choices. In fact, more than half of all colorectal cancers are linked to factors such as physical inactivity, poor nutrition, excess body weight, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption.

Despite this, myths and misconceptions continue to leave many people under‑screened and under‑diagnosed. One of the most persistent myths is that colorectal cancer only affects older adults. In reality, 1 in 5 cases occur in people under the age of 55, underscoring the importance of awareness and timely screening for adults of all ages.  Now, let’s explore ways you to support risk reduction moving forward.

Save the Date: March 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM

To kick off Colorectal Cancer Awareness month in March, a team of Family Consumer Science Agents from the University of Florida IFAS Exension will be hosting a free webinar, Cooking For A Lifetime of Cancer Prevention: Colorectal Cancer.  The webinar will review current screening recommendations, lifestyle strategies that support risk reduction, and highlight two UF/IFAS Extension Online Learning resources.

Click here to register.  Tickets are limited.
https://ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/woV0343OSuadnfx9xQiAnA#/registration.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Resources
https://colorectalcancer.org/get-involved/advocate/colorectal-cancer-awareness-month

References: 

American Cancer Society. (2025, April 29). Colorectal cancer risk factors. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html

Colorectal Cancer Alliance. (2024). Facts & statistics. https://colorectalcancer.org/basics/facts-and-statistics

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