WHEREAS, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in North Carolina and the United States, and an estimated 4,776 people in North Carolina were diagnosed and 1,740 died from colorectal cancer in 2023; and
WHEREAS, in North Carolina colorectal cancer affects men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, and the risk for developing colorectal cancer increases as one ages, especially in individuals aged 45 years or older; and
WHEREAS, colorectal cancer particularly impacts historically marginalized populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, with African Americans having the highest incidence and mortality rates; and
WHEREAS, colorectal cancer is often preventable, treatable, and beatable and greater screening awareness could save lives; and
WHEREAS, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for organizations and health practitioners in North Carolina to promote awareness of screening, increase access to screenings, and advocate for those who are affected by and survivors of colorectal cancer; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages individuals to discuss family medical history with their health care provider, live a healthy lifestyle, and get screened when recommended by your health care provider to decrease risk of colorectal cancer and to increase survivorship rates; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages people to support individuals affected by colorectal cancer during treatment, care, and survivorship and remember the loved ones we have lost to this disease;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March, 2024, as “COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.