March 6, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Healthy Behaviors to Prevent Colon Cancer
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month
Warrenton, Va. – Colorectal cancer is one of the top three cancers diagnosed in Virginia. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District strives to protect the health of its residents by providing those preventative strategies that may serve to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like colon cancer.
In honor of National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District wants to remind you of the importance of lifestyle-related risk factors and early screenings.
“During National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage our community to take simple steps to reduce their risk of colon cancer, including maintaining healthy habits and staying up to date with recommended screenings,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Early detection saves lives, and screening can even prevent cancer by finding precancerous polyps. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is committed to helping residents access the information and resources they need to stay healthy.”
One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime. While the exact causes of colorectal cancer are not known, you can help reduce your risk by making healthy choices. Practice these common behaviors to help prevent your chances of colon cancer:
- Avoid Tobacco: For the first step in living tobacco free, visit Quit Now Virginia.
- Eat Healthy Foods: Healthy eating emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein.
- Get Regular Exercise: Physical activity is one of the best things Virginians can do for their health and well-being.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Choose not to drink or drink alcohol in moderation.
- Manage Your Weight: A healthy weight is an important step to lower your risk of getting cancer.
The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly, beginning at age 45 for average-risk adults. Screening can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best. It can also find pre-cancerous polyps, allowing doctors the chance to remove them before they turn into cancer.
The Virginia Department of Health’s Cancer Prevention and Control Program (VACCP) focuses on reducing the incidence, morbidity and mortality of all cancers through prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation.
To learn more about available cancer prevention programs and resources, contact The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.
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