Fact:At least 6 out of every 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 141,210 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 49,380 people died of colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the US.

Fact:Overall, 90% of new cases and 94% of deaths occur in individuals 50 and older.

Fact:Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates are highest in African American men and women.

Fact:One of the most consistently reported relationships between colon cancer risk and behavior is the protective effect of physical activity.

Fact:The goals of screening for colorectal cancer are the prevention of cancer through the detection and removal of precancerous growths and the diagnosis of cancers at an early stage.

Colon Cancer Free QCA

Colon Cancer Free QCA (CCFQCA) is a coalition of physicians and their staff members dedicated to raising awareness about colon cancer. Gastroenterology Consultants and the Regional SurgiCenter are proud to be part of this important organization. Colon cancer is one of the leading cancer killers in the US, but if discovered early can be cured. Colonoscopy is the best method of detection. When cancer is discovered during a routine colonoscopy screening, patients have a 90% survival rate. If colon cancer isn't discovered until the patient has symptoms, the survival rate drops to only 8%. The CCFQCA's goal is to increase the number of colonoscopies screenings in this area so colon cancer can be detected and treated early, and the Quad Cities can be colon cancer free.

To learn more, visit www.coloncancerfreeqca.com.