Colon and rectal cancers are among the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer in the United States — and yet, they often go underdiscussed, in part because many people don’t feel comfortable talking about their bowel habits.
There’s a good reason to talk more about colorectal cancer though: Educating yourself and connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can help you prepare for the road ahead — and help you feel less alone along the way.
Various organizations and advocacy groups have expertise in colon cancer. Here are some of our favorite resources.
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
Founded in 1999, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to colorectal cancer advocacy and research, with the ultimate goal being an end to this type of cancer.
To that end, the organization supports colon cancer research and participates in AllyCon, an event where patients, caregivers, and advocates attend information sessions and make powerful connections that will help them along their colon cancer journey.
It also offers educational resources to help you advocate for your health, including a colon cancer screening quiz, glossary, and doctor discussion guide. The Colorectal Cancer Alliance also provides access to BlueHQ, an online hub that can connect you with patient navigators and other people with the disease. You can enroll for free online or call the toll-free help line at 877-422-2030 for more information.
Stay connected with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance through its social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
Colon Cancer Coalition
The Colon Cancer Coalition has been spreading awareness about colorectal cancer and encouraging early screening since 2004. Its goal is to raise community screening rates to 80 percent to help detect colon cancer early, when it’s highly treatable.
The Colon Cancer Coalition hosts events, such as the Get Your Rear in Gear 5K Run/Walk and the Tour de Tush Bike Ride, to raise funds for communities to promote access to screenings. It also provides community grants and funding.
The Colon Cancer Coalition offers educational materials about colon cancer on its website and blog. And it is home to Faces of Blue, a series featuring people impacted by colorectal cancer — patients, survivors, and their loved ones — who share their stories to help bring people together and encourage the colon cancer community.
You can follow the Colon Cancer Coalition on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Source link