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When?

Dress in Blue Day is celebrated on the first Friday of March. In 2013, Dress in Blue Day will be on Friday, March 1.

What?

The Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) first launched the Dress in Blue Day program in 2009 to bring nationwide attention to colon cancer and to celebrate the courage of those affected by this disease. Today, individuals, businesses and community groups across the country participate by wearing blue and urging others to do the same. By “going blue,” we hope to raise public awareness and get people talking about this cancer.

Learn how you can get involved.

Why blue?

Similar to breast cancer’s pink ribbon, the nationally recognized blue star represents the eternal memory of the people whose lives have been lost to the disease and the shining hope for a future free of colon cancer.

Why do we need to raise awareness of colon cancer?

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Why? Colon cancer typically has no symptoms until it has already progressed to later stages – making it much more difficult to treat. The good news is that a routine colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 50 could help save thousands of lives in this country every year by finding and removing polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer, or detecting colon cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

Facts*:

• Approximately 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer every year
• Colon cancer often has no symptoms until it's at an advanced stage
• Colon cancer is up to 90% preventable
• You can reduce your risk through regular screenings
• Beginning at age 50 (or earlier if you have a family history), everyone should talk to a doctor about getting a screening test for colon cancer

Where can I go to get screened for colon cancer?

To find a screening facility near you, visit the CCA’s Screening Resources page.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the Dress in Blue Day program?

Donna Quinlan
Colon Cancer Alliance, Program Director
dquinlan@ccalliance.org

*These statistics were compiled from the American Cancer Society’s Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures 2011-2013. Read more statistics.

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