MARCH IS COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Why Colon Cancer Awareness Month matters

Learn more about this nationwide campaign that shines a spotlight on education, prevention, and the importance of timely colon cancer screenings.
Exact Sciences | February 2026
Animated version of a Cologuard box holding a pencil.

Hey, it's me, Cologuard®, your screening BFF.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. And since you clicked on this article, you probably have questions about it.

That’s why I’m here. I’ll be your guide so I can take you through all you need to know to celebrate – from how it started, and why it’s important, all the way to what you can do to spread the word about taking care of your gut health.

Let’s start the ball rolling with the most obvious question...

What is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a national campaign observed each March to highlight why, how, and when to screen for colon cancer. The goal is to increase screening rates, educate the public, and raise support for patients and survivors.

When was Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month officially recognized?

Ooh, I love a good history lesson!

The year was 2000, the date February 29 (a leap year!). On that fateful Tuesday, President Bill Clinton signed a proclamation that marked March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

A year before, in 1999, several organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, banded together to form a united front against colon cancer. Their mission was simple: to shine a spotlight on timely screenings to prevent colon cancer.

Since then, this annual observance has helped raise awareness and reduce the stigma of colon cancer — not just here at home, but also globally. Countries such as Canada, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, and the European Union also observe March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Wait. Is it Colorectal or Colon Cancer Awareness Month?

Although its official name is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it’s also referred to as Colon Cancer Awareness Month. No matter how you say it, what’s important is knowing why it’s celebrated, and how you can help spread its message.

Tim sitting in his living room as he is being interviewed.
Read Tim’s story about breaking the stigma around colon cancer.

What is the message? Why does it matter?

Every year in March, major health organizations, nonprofits, advocacy groups, and survivors across the country lead campaigns that encourage colon cancer screening starting at age 45.

Why is this more important than ever? In January 2026, the American Cancer Society published the results of a recent study. It showed that colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among those younger than 50.1

Concerning? Yes. Hopeless? Not at all. Many colon cancer cases are preventable.2 In fact, when caught early, about 90% of people can survive it.*3

That’s why colon cancer awareness matters. If we want to stop it in its tracks, then more people should know about the importance of timely screenings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

What can people do to help and show support?

I’m so glad you asked. Throughout the month, communities across the country do their part to spread colon cancer awareness through:

  • Educational campaigns
  • Fundraising events
  • Outreach programs

If you want to get involved, there are many worthwhile and fun ways to do so.

Wear blue the whole month through

Because it’s the official awareness color for colon cancer, everyone is encouraged to get their blue on throughout March. Symbolizing strength, trust, and solidarity, it also honors the courage of patients, survivors, and families who care for them.

Show your support by wearing blue or the blue ribbon. You can also celebrate “Dress in Blue” Day. Held on the first Friday of March, it officially kicks off Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Make sure to take a selfie and post it online so more people can participate and spread the word.

A group of men wearing blue shirts take a break from a game of basketball.

Walk the walk

Get involved in fundraising activities such as 5K walk/run events, health fairs, and community gatherings. This is an excellent opportunity to gather friends, coworkers, and family members so everyone can get involved and do their part.

Talk the talk

Volunteer your time, money, or both. Visit your local hospital, get in touch with your local reps and community leaders, or sign up for opportunities through organizations such as the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

Be vocal on social

Use your social media for good. Spread the word by doing something creative. Share memes that promote colon cancer awareness, post and repost educational stories, or even go viral by dancing for a cure. And if you or someone close to you is a survivor, you can spread your own message of hope and strength by sharing your story.

Let’s all do our part

National Colorectal Awareness Month is made possible by the support of colon cancer organizations and the passion of volunteers, patients, survivors, and advocates such as you.

If you want to get involved but don’t know where to start, here are some sites to visit:

  • Colorectal Cancer Alliance (CCA)
    The leading national nonprofit for colon cancer support and research, they are a good resource for volunteer and fundraising events.
  • American Cancer Society (ACS)
    A rich resource on screening guidelines, research, statistics, prevention, and support for colon cancer patients.
  • Colon Cancer Coalition
    Explore grassroots and community-based events where you can join fundraising activities focused on local awareness.

Thanks for spending time with me, and I hope you enjoyed learning about Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

Want to know more about how to take care of your gut health? Then I highly recommend you check out another article where we get to the bottom (Ha!) of the myths and misconceptions about colon cancer. See you there!

Safe.
Noninvasive.
FDA-approved.