Of cancers affecting both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and rectum) is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. In 2005,* 141,405 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 53,005 people died from it.† CDC helps prevent colorectal cancer by building partnerships, encouraging screening, supporting education and training, and conducting surveillance and research.
*Latest year for which statistics are available. †Source: USCS.
Features
Colorectal Cancer Control Program
The program supports population-based screening efforts and provides colorectal cancer screening to low-income men and women.
Personal Screening Stories
In their own words, four real patients tell what it was like for them to be screened for colorectal cancer.
Screen for Life Campaign
In new public service announcements, actor and musician Terrence Howard offers a personal message urging Americans to be screened for colorectal cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Activities Across the Nation
States, tribes, and territories that have screening programs or laws related to colorectal cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Basic Fact Sheet

This new fact sheet (PDF-321KB) explains what colorectal cancer is, who may be at increased risk, the symptoms, and recommended screening tests.
More Publications
Send a Health-e-Card!
Remind someone you care about to get screened for colorectal cancer with CDC's I Got Screened. Now It's Your Turn electronic greeting card featuring actor Jimmy Smits.
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