GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. - Experts say 1 in 20 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer in their lifetime.
Colorectal cancer is the nation’s No. 2 cancer killer in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be. Early screening and education are key to treatment and overall good health. Doctors say screening for colon cancer should start at age 50 for those with average risk, sooner for people with a family history of the disease.
Colon Cancer Coalition executive director Anne Carlson and colon cancer survivor Sarah DeBord appeared on KARE 11 News at 11 to talk about the importance of early detection. Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton has officially proclaimed March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. On Monday, March 5, 62 landmarks and buildings across Minnesota and four neighboring states will be bathed in blue light from dusk to down to support colon cancer survivors and patients.
The Colon Cancer Coalition is a Minneapolis-based non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging screening and raising awareness of colon cancer.