Governor Proclaims March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Missouri

Jackson, MO -- 2/20/2015 -- In an effort to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, Governor Jay Nixon proclaimed March 2015 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month -- a national movement to increase awareness and education about colorectal cancer and to spread the message that colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month will be observed throughout March and will include events and outreach activities nationwide.

Colorectal cancer is one of only a few cancers that can be prevented through the use of screening tests, yet colorectal cancer remains the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer deaths for men and women in the United States.Each year, tens of thousands of lives are lost to this disease.

Despite these staggering statistics, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable,treatable, and beatable forms of cancer, especially when it is caught early.Unfortunately, nearly half of all Americans are not getting the recommended screenings they need. Many deaths expected from colorectal cancer this year could be avoided with wider use of proven screening tests.

Governor Jay Nixon's support in proclaiming March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Missouri will help to increase awareness in our state during this important month.

"Fight Colorectal Cancer is thrilled that Governor Jay Nixon proclaimed March 2015 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Missouri," stated Anjee Davis, President of Fight Colorectal Cancer. "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is about educating men and women to save lives. The more we talk about this disease, andt he more we encourage our family and friends to get screened -- the more lives we can save."

For additional resources visit Fight Colorectal Cancer's website at www.FightColorectalCancer.org.

About Fight Colorectal Cancer

Fight Colorectal Cancer is the leading colorectal cancer advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. empowering survivors and caregivers to raise their voices, training advocates around the country, and educating lawmakers and pushing them for better policies. The organization offers support for patients, family members and caregivers, and serves as are source for colorectal cancer advocates, policymakers, medical professionals and healthcare providers. The organization does everything it can to increase and improve research at all stages of development and for all stages of cancer.Learn more at www.FightColorectalCancer.org.