Colorectal Cancer Awareness: 5 Myths You Need to Stop Believing

April is widely recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to talk about something many people still feel uncomfortable discussing. But here’s the truth: silence fuels late diagnoses. Awareness fuels prevention. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with proper screening — yet myths and misconceptions keep too many people from getting checked.

Today, we’re clearing the air.

Myth 1: “I’m too young to worry about colorectal cancer.”

This used to be a disease primarily diagnosed in older adults. That is no longer the case.

Rates of colorectal cancer are rising in adults under 50. Because of this shift, the recommended age for routine screening has been lowered to 45 for average-risk individuals.

Action Step: If you’re 45 or older, talk to your healthcare provider about screening options. If you’re younger but experiencing symptoms (persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain), do not ignore them.

Advocate for yourself.

Myth 2: “I don’t have symptoms, so I don’t need screening.”

Colorectal cancer often develops silently in its early stages. Many people have no symptoms at all until the disease has progressed. Screening isn’t about diagnosing symptoms. It’s about preventing cancer or catching it early — when it’s most treatable.

Action Step: Schedule routine screenings even if you feel completely healthy. Prevention saves lives.

Myth 3: “A colonoscopy is the only screening option.”

While colonoscopy is considered the gold standard, it’s not the only option.

There are several screening methods available, including:

• Stool-based tests done at home

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy

• CT colonography

The best test is the one that gets done.

Action Step: Ask your provider which screening method is right for you based on your health history and risk factors.

Myth 4: “There’s no family history, so I’m not at risk.”

While family history does increase risk, most colorectal cancer cases occur in people with no known family history.

Other risk factors include:

• A diet high in processed or red meats

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Smoking

• Heavy alcohol use

• Inflammatory bowel disease

Action Step: Know your family history — but don’t rely on it as your only indicator. Lifestyle choices and regular screenings matter.

Myth 5: “It’s embarrassing to talk about.”

Let’s say this clearly: your health is not embarrassing.

Colorectal cancer affects real people, real families, and real communities. The discomfort of a conversation is small compared to the impact of a late-stage diagnosis.

When we normalize the conversation, we reduce stigma. When we reduce stigma, more people get screened. When more people get screened, lives are saved.

Action Step: Start one conversation this month. With a spouse. A sibling. A parent. A friend.

It could change — or save — a life.

Why Awareness Matters

At The Horse of Many Colors, we have seen firsthand how cancer impacts entire families emotionally, financially, and physically. Colorectal cancer is preventable and highly treatable when caught early. Awareness is not just education. It is empowerment.

This April, wear blue. Share a post. Schedule a screening. Encourage someone you love.

Because no family should fight alone, and some fights can be prevented before they begin.