Overview:
March is recognized as Global Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide. Raising awareness about this disease is critically important, particularly in relation to early screening and understanding risk factors, as this helps prevent serious health complications, God willing.
Objectives:
- Promote early detection of colorectal cancer.
- Increase awareness of risk factors associated with colorectal cancer.
- Support colorectal cancer survivors and their families.
Facts:
- Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer cases, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
- The majority of colorectal cancer cases occur in individuals over the age of 50.
- Several lifestyle-related factors increase the risk of colorectal cancer, including excessive consumption of processed meats, insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Colorectal cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages, which limits available treatment options.
- The incidence of colorectal cancer can be significantly reduced through preventive strategies such as adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding risk factors, and undergoing early screening for early detection.
Official Date:
Globally: March 1st - 31st, 2026
Locally: Ramadan 12th - Shawwal 12th, 1447H
References:
World Health Organization – Colorectal Cancer
Ministry of Health – World Health Days 2025