Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer in both men and women and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In North Dakota, CRC is the second most diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women combined. CRC screening is lifesaving, but 28% of eligible adults in North Dakota are not up to date with this screening. Delayed screening leads to late-stage diagnosis with 35% of CRC cases diagnosed at a late stage.

Both the American Cancer Society and the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommend all adults begin screening for CRC at the age of 45. People at an increased risk of getting CRC should talk to their doctor about when to begin screening, which test is right for them, and how often to get tested.

We encourage you to join the fight against cancer to help North Dakota achieve a CRC screening rate of 80% in every community across the state. Please use the following materials in your organization and community to increase awareness and the importance of prevention of this disease. Working together we CAN reduce the incidence and impact of colorectal cancer in North Dakota!