March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and the Colorectal Cancer Resource & Action Network (CCRAN) is raising concerns about the inadequate screening rates in Canada. Despite being the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country, 9 out of 10 cases of colorectal cancer can be prevented through screening.
Since the implementation of colorectal cancer screening programs across Canada, there has been a noticeable decrease in colorectal cancer rates among the eligible population – individuals aged 50 and above who are at an average risk of developing the disease. However, participation in these screening programs varies from 20% to 51% across the country, leaving over half of Canadians without access to a quick and painless at-home test that could potentially save their lives.
CCRAN is urging the government, healthcare practitioners, and individuals to take action to improve the uptake of screening. The organization emphasizes the alarming increase in early-age onset colorectal cancer (EAOCRC) cases being diagnosed in individuals under the age of 50. These younger Canadians face barriers related to detection and diagnosis, resulting in the disease often being identified at a later and more advanced stage. Furthermore, the disease characteristics tend to be more aggressive in many EAOCRC patients.
As a response to these findings and the growing number of younger patients seeking support, education, and advocacy, CCRAN is dedicated to addressing EAOCRC and is calling for immediate, comprehensive, and collaborative action from all stakeholders. The organization is committed to raising awareness of the disease and advocating for a reduction in the screening age, emphasizing that screening saves lives and that Canadians under 50 years old should have access to life-saving screening tests.
Ms. Filomena Servidio-Italiano, President & CEO of CCRAN, expressed her concern about the rise in early age onset cancer rates and emphasized the organization’s commitment to addressing this issue comprehensively. CCRAN aims to provide support, raise awareness, and drive meaningful progress in the fight against early age onset cancer.
Join CCRAN in its efforts to combat colorectal cancer not only in March but throughout the year.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Canada and the third most prevalent cancer in the country.
