Missoula Measures - Colorectal Cancer

Why this topic

Colorectal cancer is common in Montana: 475 people are newly diagnosed and 175 people die from it each year. It is the third most common cancer in Montana, after prostate and lung cancer for men, and after breast and lung cancer for women. Montana Central Tumor Registry Report, June 2008
Nearly 80% of colorectal cancer could be prevented by screening methods that find and remove polyps and precancerous lesions. Colorectal cancer can be present without symptoms, but colonoscopy can find it. Am. Journal Preventive Medicine 2006, #31
Among Montanans with colorectal cancer, more than 95% survive at least five years if their cancer is diagnosed at the local stage, but only 15% survive at least five years if their cancer is diagnosed at the distant stage. Montana Central Tumor Registry Report, June 2008

216 women and 253 men were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2006. Montana Central Tumor Registry Report, June 2008
101 women and 102 men died from colorectal cancer in 2006. Montana Central Tumor Registry Report, June 2008
53 percent of adults 50+ reported being screened for colorectal cancer in 2006. BRFSS