March 2023: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States among men and women combined; and,

WHEREAS, it is estimated that almost 151,030 people in the United States were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and over 52,580 people are estimated to have died of colorectal cancer in 2022; and,

WHEREAS, incidence rates of colorectal cancer among younger adults have DOUBLED since the 1990s; and,

WHEREAS, although colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers by removing polyps during a colonoscopy, it is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the most common cause of cancer deaths among men younger than 50 years old in the United States; and,

WHEREAS, American Indian/Alaska Native and African American males have significantly higher incidence rates for colorectal cancer compared to other racial and gender groups; and, 

WHEREAS, the American Cancer Society recommends beginning screening at 45 for average risk individuals and high-risk individuals being screened earlier and more often; and,

WHEREAS, the national goal established by the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable is to strive to increase timely colorectal cancer screening rates to 80 percent in every community, for all Americans eligible for screening; and, 

WHEREAS, screening by colonoscopy is one of the best ways for prevention and early detection of colon cancer; and,

WHEREAS, observing Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month during the month of March would provide a special opportunity to offer education on the importance of early detection and screening;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2023 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan.