Pink-tober Isn't Just for Breast Health Anymore

It’s no secret; the color pink dominates during October.

Breast cancer awareness efforts have changed the way the community responds to conversations about breast health and mammograms, so much so that nearly 75% of women report they are on track with the recommended screening guidelines. Despite colon cancer being highly preventable through screening, about 55% of women have been as diligent about getting checked for this disease. In fact, colon cancer is the third deadliest cancer for females, with an estimated 24,000 women dying from this disease every year.

The Screen This Too! campaign, created by the Colon Cancer Alliance, expands the awareness and prevention conversation. Simple in concept, broad in scope — this campaign encourages you to not only think pink during October, but to consider your colon too.

The link between breast and colon cancer is deeper than some may think. According to the National Cancer Institute, studies show breast cancer patients have a 20% to 80% increased risk of colon cancer compared to the general population.

“Just like breast exams, colon cancer screenings can save your life,” says Jasmine Greenamyer, COO at the Colon Cancer Alliance. “This is not an “old man’s disease” as some may think. Studies show men and women are diagnosed at nearly equal rates. Don’t put it off - when you head to the doctor for your annual checkup, be sure to tell your medical team to Screen This Too!”

The Colon Cancer Alliance is asking the community to help boost awareness during October by getting checked and getting involved. Screen This Too! pins, underwear and unisex shirts are available for purchase at ccalliance.org. The group is also encouraging people to take this campaign viral by changing Facebook photos to the Screen This Too! image, sharing photos of themselves wearing the shirt on the Colon Cancer Alliance Facebook page and downloading the free Screen This Too! pin-up kit.

“It is imperative that the conversation about breast cancer and colon cancer continues,” Greenamyer concluded. “The message to patients needs to be to take charge of your overall health. Preventive screenings can save your life.”

For more information about the Screen This Too! campaign or to get involved, contact Colleen Pyra, Marketing/Communications Director, at (949) 554-4098 or [email protected].