Norfolk, Va. — To kick off March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the seven area police departments in Hampton Roads announced the launch of a social media campaign to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, and the importance of screening and early detection to save lives.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States. Rapid declines in colorectal cancer incidence occurred in people 50 and older during the 2000s, largely because of increased screening with colonoscopy, which can prevent cancer by removing premalignant polyps. In 2018, the American Cancer Society updated the recommendation to everyone 45 and older should be screened for colorectal cancer. This change was influenced by the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in young and middle-aged adults.
Throughout March, encouraging messages from the police chiefs as well as educational messages from the American Cancer Society will be shared via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn accounts. Each department will conduct do an internal awareness campaign amongst employees and encourage everyone eligible to get screened and encourage their loved ones to do the same.
“We know that colorectal cancer is a preventable disease, and early detection is critical for saving lives,” says, Dr. Bruce Waldholtz, a gastroenterologist at Chesapeake General Hospital as well as an American Cancer Society spokesperson. “We are proud to collaborate with the area police chiefs to work toward our shared goal of getting more eligible U.S. adults screened. Through this new campaign, we hope to reach many social media followers and encourage them to share this important information about colorectal cancer within their own networks and hopefully beyond.”
“Any time our 7 cities team up it’s going to be a success,” said Chief Larry D. Boone. “The Norfolk Police Department is glad to be part of the team that’s bringing awareness to this preventable illness. I am encouraging my employees to get screened this month, and I hope that those in the community will make the decision to do the same. Take the first step and call your doctor. It may save your life.”
For more information about colorectal cancer and screening recommendations, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org/colon-rectal-cancer or call 1-800-227-2345 to speak to a cancer information specialist.
About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the Society is the only organization attacking cancer from every angle. For more information go to www.cancer.org.