AL HJR71

Recognizes March 2017 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Alabama.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in Alabama, with an estimated 2,210 cases diagnosed and 940 deaths expected that year.

Early detection significantly improves survival rates: 90 percent five-year survival when detected early versus only 10 percent when spread to other organs, yet only 39 percent of cases are diagnosed at early stages.

Encourages Alabamians age 50 and over to undergo colorectal screening and recognizes the importance of the FITWAY Alabama Colorectal Cancer Prevention Program administered by the Alabama Department of Public Health.

Adopted by the House on February 23, 2017 and by the Senate on March 14, 2017.