FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contact: Hayley Cooke
Hayley.Cooke@preventcancer.org
703-837-3692
Alexandria, Va. — It’s a common misconception that colorectal cancer affects only older people—but today, more adults under the recommended screening age are being diagnosed than ever before.
Because younger people may be unaware of risk factors and symptoms of colorectal cancer, those who do have it are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, when the cancer is more advanced and harder to treat. The Prevent Cancer Foundation’s new campaign, “Too Young for This Sh*t,” has a cheeky name, but a serious message: building awareness of colorectal cancer in younger adults can save lives.
While the risk of getting colorectal cancer increases with age, you’re never too young to learn about the lifestyle choices you can make to prevent colorectal cancer, like maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, limiting red meat and avoiding processed meat, never smoking and drinking alcohol only in moderation.
Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms right away, but it can. That’s why it’s important to understand your body and talk with your doctor about any changes that could be signs of cancer. If you notice changes in your bowel habits, blood in or on your stool, stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away or unexplained weight loss, talk with your doctor right away.
You may be shocked to learn you’re not Too Young for This Sh*t, but you also need to know that colorectal cancer is Preventable, Treatable, Beatable®. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened. If you’re of average risk, begin screening at age 45.
People under 50 who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer may have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps. Individual or family history of inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) and certain genetic syndromes can also increase your risk. It’s important that you talk to your doctor now about any risk factors you may have—you may need to get screened earlier or more often. To learn more, visit www.tooyoungforthis.org.
About The Prevent Cancer Foundation®
The Prevent Cancer Foundation® is one of the nation’s leading voluntary health organizations and the only U.S. nonprofit organization focused solely on cancer prevention and early detection. Founded in 1985, it has catapulted cancer prevention to prominence and fulfills its mission through research, education, outreach and advocacy.
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