Media contact: Brianna Hoge
UAB is committed to increasing awareness and education about colorectal cancer throughout the month of March.While widely considered one of the most preventable and treatable cancers with early detection, colorectal cancer is still the second-deadliest in the state of Alabama, according to the American Cancer Society. In 2023 alone, it is estimated that more than 150,000 people across the United States will be diagnosed.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham aims to combat the disease by spreading awareness and educating the community with resources throughout the month of March.
Choose a new lifestyle resolution for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Resolutions are not limited to the new year. More than half of colorectal cancers can be linked to lifestyle habits. By making small modifications to everyday routines, people can drastically reduce their risk for colorectal cancer. A few suggestions from the American Cancer Society include:
- incorporate regular exercise
- maintain a healthy weight
- follow a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while avoiding red/processed meats and highly processed foods
- avoid tobacco
- avoid alcohol or limit intake
UAB’s Digestive Health Center will offer free colonoscopies to select patients of Cooper Green Mercy Health Services Authority during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March. Click here to read more.
A primary care provider is also central to obtaining necessary screenings and discussing additional risks for colorectal cancer. If you do not have one, UAB Medicine provides a full list of physicians who are currently accepting new patients.
For more in-depth medical guidance on prevention, screening options and symptoms, click here.