Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in the US for men and women. But many colorectal cancers can be prevented or caught early when they might be easier to treat. That’s why getting screened is so important.

• Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
• Every year, about 140,000 people in the United States get colorectal cancer, and more than 50,000 people die of it.
• Precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer don’t always cause symptoms, especially at first. If you have symptoms, they may include blood in or on the stool, abdominal pain that doesn’t go away or losing weight and you don’t know why. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor.
• There are several screening test options. Talk with your doctor about which is right for you.
• Only about two-thirds of adults in the United States are up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening.

Beginning at age 45, both men and women should speak with their healthcare provider and follow testing guidelines