March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a new survey – commissioned by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance – reveals a very troubling situation.
More than half of U.S. adults (51%) prioritize household chores, such as laundry and childcare, over life-saving colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer screenings
In addition, 69% say they would rather file their taxes than get a colonoscopy.
While most people understand that colonoscopies can detect cancer, according to the survey of 1,000 Americans, 57% are unaware that these screenings can actually prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps.
If Americans knew this, 98% reported they would be more likely to undergo the screening.
With colorectal cancer cases rising in younger adults, these startling statistics underscore the urgent need for increased awareness and education surrounding prevention and the importance of timely screening.
“These results reveal a life-threatening gap in public awareness of colorectal cancer,” said Christopher Lieu, M.D., medical oncologist and advisor to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. “Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer among men and women, and incidence is rising in younger people. It’s imperative that everyone understands the importance of screening and makes it a priority, so more lives can be saved.”
Life Saving Screenings And Day To Day Life
A major hurdle to getting screening for colorectal cancer is everyday life. There are many screening options available that quick and convenient.
Close to one in five people (18%) whose doctor recommended they get screened opt not to do so.
Among these adults, 72% admit to letting everyday tasks keep them from getting these important health tests.
Parents, in particular, struggle to prioritize their own health, with 60% admitting that daily responsibilities prevent them from getting screened, compared to 46% of non-parents.
Stigma And Fear About Screening
Even though the benefits are well documented, many people have psychological reasons preventing them from getting screened.
More than a third of adults who haven’t been screened (36%) are simply afraid. But in reality, it is not that bad — only 17% of those who have already been screened would let fear about the experience keep them from doing so again.
Additionally, 17% of unscreened individuals avoid colorectal screenings simply because they find the process unpleasant.
Timely screening can help avoid the drastically unpleasant process of cancer treatment.
Preventative Screening
Preventative screening and testing help detect diseases and conditions in their early and most treatable stages. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida.