Vector illustration on the theme of national Colorectal Cancer awareness month of March.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers in the United States. Early detection through routine screening can prevent cancer or catch it at a highly treatable stage.

Below is a message from Ester Suleymanov, one of our nursing students, that we are proud to share:

“March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and on Dress in Blue Day on March 6, 2026, we join communities across the country in raising awareness. Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and about 1 in 24 people will develop it in their lifetime. The encouraging news is that screening can detect cancer early and, in many cases, prevent it altogether. Whether through a colonoscopy or an at-home option like Cologuard, getting screened is a proactive step toward protecting your health.

For some individuals, including those living with HIV or with a history of HPV, additional anal cancer screening, such as high-resolution anoscopy, may be recommended. Central Outreach offers high-resolution anoscopy in a supportive and affirming environment to help detect and treat abnormal cells early.

If you have questions about colorectal or anal cancer screening, Central Outreach is here to support you. Reach out today to speak with a provider and take the next step in your preventive care. This March, we invite our community to wear blue, raise awareness, and take meaningful steps toward prevention.'

Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters

Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, often as small growths called polyps. Over time, certain polyps can become cancerous. The critical point: screening can find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.

Who Should Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45 for adults at average risk. Screening may begin earlier for individuals with:

  • A family history of colorectal cancer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Genetic cancer syndromes
  • HIV or other immunocompromising conditions

Screening options include:

  • Colonoscopy (every 10 years if normal)
  • FIT stool test (annually)
  • Stool DNA test, such as Cologuard (every 1–3 years)

Colonoscopy remains the gold standard because it can detect and remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure.

Anal Cancer Screening & High-Resolution Anoscopy

People living with HIV, individuals with persistent HPV infection, and some members of the LGBTQ+ community may be at increased risk for anal cancer. In these cases, screening may include:

  • Anal Pap testing
  • High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) to evaluate abnormal cells

We understand that conversations about colorectal and anal health can feel uncomfortable. Our team creates a space that is confidential, affirming, and medically grounded. We provide high-resolution anoscopy in a trauma-informed, affirming clinical setting to detect and treat precancerous changes early. Ask your clinician more during your visit.

Take the Next Step

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., but it is highly preventable with screening. If you are 45 or older or have additional risk factors, now is the time to speak with a provider.
Preventive care is powerful. This March, wear blue, start the conversation, and schedule your screening.

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