4th
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Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 2026
March 1 @ 8:00 am - March 31 @ 5:00 pm
Colon and Rectal Cancer are Preventable and Treatable
most common cancer diagnosis
72
Canadians diagnosed every day
90%
curable when found early
The colon and rectum make up the last part of the gastrointestinal (digestive) system. Colorectal cancer is cancer that affects either the colon or rectum, or both. It may also be referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where the cancer originates.
Symptoms
- Change to your Bowel Habits
- Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
- Other General Colorectal Cancer symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness and fatigue
- Anemia
- Nausea and vomiting
Risk Factors
Genetics and lifestyle are the main determinants that increase the risk of Colorectal Cancer. It has been proven that exposure to some carcinogens, including in the work environment, can also increase risk.
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis
- Having benign (noncancerous) polyps
- A personal history of colorectal cancer
- A family history of colorectal cancer
- Inherited syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome
- Genetic conditions
- Not being physically active
- Overweight or obesity
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Diet high in red meat
- Diet low in fiber
- Exposure to ionizing radiation
Since colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (growths), participating in regular screening can help to find and remove these polyps before they become cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer Canada has lowered the recommended age to begin screening from 50 to 45.
More Information
OHCOW Work Related Cancer Page
Colerectal Cancer Canada
- https://www.colorectalcancercanada.com/
- Colorectal Cancer Canada is the nation’s non-profit colorectal cancer patient organization. We are dedicated to colorectal cancer awareness and education, supporting patients and caregivers, and advocating on their behalf. Our goal is to reduce the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer in Canada and to improve the quality of life for patients, their families and caregivers.
