Colon cancer is unfortunately common. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. About 1 in 22 men and 1 in 24 women will get colorectal cancer in their lifetime.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women in the United States, and the second leading cause overall. It’s expected to take about 51,020 lives this year alone.

Fortunately, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been on the decline for several decades. One likely reason is that screening tests are becoming more common, and polyps are being removed before they can develop into cancers or when the cancer is still in its earlier stages and easier to treat, according to the American Cancer Society.

While no cancer is 100 percent preventable, there are some risk factors that can be controlled. Staying at a healthy weight, getting a good amount of physical activity, eating a lot of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, limiting alcohol intake and not smoking can help you prevent this disease.

Bringing attention to all of these things is a big reason for the Bon Secours Colon Cancer 5K and 1-Mile Walk that happened Saturday. Advocates hope to spread the knowledge about regular screenings and some of the ways that people can lower their risk.

The event also raised more than $20,000 to help provide care for colon cancer patients in certain Bon Secours locations.

We thank all those who volunteered or participated to help bring more attention and more money to this important cause.