Screen for Life: National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign

Screen for Life

CDC’s Screen for Life: National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign informs men and women who are 45 years old or older about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer regularly. Screening tests help find precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. This prevents colorectal cancer. Screening also can find this cancer early, when treatment works best. But many adults have not been screened as recommended.

Campaign Background

Campaign development is based on an extensive review of communication and behavioral science literature. Since 1999, CDC has conducted more than 225 focus groups nationally to assess knowledge, behaviors, and screening practices related to colorectal cancer, and to test campaign messages and materials with audiences the campaign intends to reach. The focus groups have been segmented by gender, age (45 to 54, 55 to 64, and 65 or older), and ethnicity (mixed ethnicities, African American, and Hispanic). Input is also sought from state health departments on the types of materials that would be most helpful to local efforts. See a list of publications.

Campaign Messages

  • Screening for colorectal cancer saves lives.
  • Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
  • If you’re 45 or older, see your doctor and get screened for colorectal cancer.
  • There are several screening test options. Talk to your doctor about which is right for you.
  • Screening helps prevent colorectal cancer by finding precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.
  • Screening helps find colorectal cancer early, when treatment can be very effective.
  • Don’t wait for symptoms to be checked. Precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer don’t always cause symptoms, especially early on.
  • You need to get screened even if you have no family history. Most colorectal cancers occur in people with no family history of the disease.

Research Publications