March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month — a great time to learn when and why to get screened for colorectal (colon) cancer. While colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, it is preventable, treatable, and beatable.
In 2019, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be 101,420 new cases of colorectal cancer and 44,180 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States.1 Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is: about 1 in 22 (4.49 percent) for men and 1 in 24 (4.15 percent) for women.1
The good news is that colon cancer can be prevented by finding and removing polyps before they become cancerous. It is highly treatable if found in its early stages. The American Cancer Society recommends adults start getting screened at age 45, or, if there is a strong family history, patients should talk to their doctor about their risk.2
Our wellness programs can help support you and your population
AmeriHealth Administrators’ health and wellness programs can help your bottom-line by promoting positive behavioral changes through education and awareness. Our people, tools, and educational resources can help you support optimal health for your population.
Connect with an AmeriHealth Administrators representative or your broker to find out how better health awareness and education can lead to a better bottom-line.
1 “Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer”; American Cancer Society, Inc. Last Revised: January 24, 2019
www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
2 “Can Colorectal Cancer Be Prevented?”; American Cancer Society, Inc. Last Revised: May 30, 2018 www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/prevention.html