You’ve Got Guts – Kick it in the Butt!
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) is urging Nebraskans to take action with their campaign, “You’ve Got Guts – Kick it in the Butt!” Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in our state, yet it is one of the most preventable and treatable when caught early through regular screenings.
The Reality of Colorectal Cancer in Nebraska
Colorectal cancer is a silent disease, often showing no symptoms until it has advanced. Here are some key statistics that highlight the urgent need for awareness and action:
- The American Cancer Society estimates 940 new cases of colorectal cancer in Nebraska in 2025.
- Sadly, 360 Nebraskans are expected to lose their lives to the disease this year.
- Nebraska ranks 34th in screening rates across the U.S., with only 64% of adults aged 45-75 up to date on their screenings.
Screening Saves Lives
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer or detect it early is through regular screenings starting at age 45.
- Colorectal cancer is the #1 cause of cancer deaths in men under 50 and the #2 cause in women under 50.
- Only 38% of Nebraskans aged 45-54 are up to date with screenings.
- Early detection is crucial: The five-year survival rate is 92% when caught early but drops significantly for later-stage diagnoses.
- Three in five cases are now being diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Know the Symptoms
While many people experience no symptoms in the early stages, some warning signs include:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools lasting more than a few days)
- A persistent urge to have a bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Stomach pain, cramping, or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait—see a healthcare provider right away.
Who is at Risk?
Certain factors increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer:
- Lifestyle choices: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, high alcohol consumption, and smoking contribute to 55% of colorectal cancer cases.
- Age: Those over 45 are at higher risk, and the risk increases with age.
- Family history: A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer increases an individual’s risk 2 to 4 times.
- Young adults are increasingly affected: By 2030, colorectal cancer is expected to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in people aged 20-49.
Multiple Screening Options Available
There are several safe and affordable screening options, including:
- At-home stool tests (e.g., FIT or stool DNA tests)
- Colonoscopy (recommended every 10 years for those at average risk)
- Other visual exams, such as flexible sigmoidoscopy or CT colonography
If you choose an at-home test and receive an abnormal result, follow up with a colonoscopy as soon as possible.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait until symptoms appear—talk to your doctor about colorectal cancer screening. Encourage your family and friends to do the same.
Learn more about colorectal cancer, screening options, and resources at the Nebraska Cancer Coalition: www.necancer.org/Colorectal-Cancer.