JCH&L Joins #DressInBlueNE to Raise Awareness of Colorectal Cancer

Fairbury, Neb. (Feb. 24, 2025) – Jefferson Community Health and Life is proud to participate in the Nebraska Cancer Coalition’s annual #DressInBlueNE campaign to raise awareness of colorectal cancer and the importance of lifesaving screening. This statewide effort coincides with Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March and culminates in Dress in Blue Day on Friday, March 7.

JCH&L staff will be invited to wear denim on Thursday, March 6, for a donation to the Nebraska Cancer Coalition, which strives to raise awareness for various types of cancer throughout the year, including colorectal cancer in March. Staff are also encouraged to wear blue that day.

Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nebraska, with incidence and mortality rates in the state exceeding national averages. Many are unaware that the recommended age for colorectal cancer screening has been lowered from 50 to 45.

In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be 940 new cases and 360 deaths from colorectal cancer in Nebraska.
Screening rates remain a challenge, with only 64% of Nebraskans aged 45-75 up-to-date on screenings as of 2022, and only 38% of those aged 45-54 current on their screenings.
By 2030, colorectal cancer is expected to become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among 20-49-year-olds. If you are within this age range and have symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider.

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives by detecting the disease early, when treatment is more effective, or can prevent it altogether. If you are ages 45 to 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your healthcare provider about getting screened today. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable—but you won’t know unless you go.

Taking ownership of your health by discussing your family history and screening options with a primary care provider is a vital step toward prevention. Multiple safe and affordable screening options are available, including at-home test kits. Additionally, the public can show support for colorectal cancer awareness by wearing blue on Friday, March 7, and sharing photos on social media using the hashtag #DressInBlueNE and #NC2.

For additional information on colorectal cancer screenings or local resources, please visit: https://www.necancer.org/Colorectal-Cancer