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Colorectal Cancer Stories

Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among Native people, and the second leading cause of cancer death. There are usually no symptoms until it’s too late; regular screenings can detect polyps in the colon early, before they turn into cancer.

End Colon Cancer in Indian Country

End Colon Cancer

End Colon Cancer in Indian Country

Doesn’t Matter What You Call It. Get Checked. #GetBehindCRCScreening

Indigenous Food for Your (Gut) Health

FOOD IS MEDICINE. Our ancestors had access to a variety of foods that were important for maintaining gut health. Start adding some of these Indigenous foods into your diet to keep your gut healthy, and help reduce your risk for diseases like colorectal cancer.

Gut Health Resource

My Colonoscopy Tools

AICAFMyColonoscopyTools

My FIT Test Tools

AICAFMyFitTestTools

I'm Behind CRC Screening Pledge

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death for Native people. Getting screened saves lives by detecting precancerous growths in the early stages when they are easiest to treat and remove. Most men and women should start screening at age 45, but can have it done earlier if symptoms are present. Help us end colon cancer in Indian Country by taking the pledge to get screened! Once you have taken the pledge, our team will send you the I'm Behind CRC Screening Pledge certificate.

CRC Screening Pledge 2020

Which Colorectal Cancer Screening is Right for Me?

The three screening tests that most accurately identify colorectal cancer are the colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and the stool test. But remember, the best screening test is the one that gets done! Use this chart to help you determine which option is best for you.

Which Screening Test Resource

Colorectal Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Indigenous people are often diagnosed with colorectal cancer in its later and more fatal stages when the symptoms become more obvious. Use the "Colorectal Cancer Signs & Symptoms" infographic to learn more about the common CRC signs and symptoms, and understand when you should speak to your doctor about screening.

CRC S&S1
CRC S&S2

#GetBehindCRCScreening Postcard

Create a #GetBehindCRCScreening Postcard for our relatives in Indian Country! AICAF invites youth of all ages to personalize our card with a message that reminds loved ones to get screened, or that honors a CRC survivor. We'll share these heartfelt creations with clinics and patients in Native communities across the country.

#GetBehindCRCScreening Postcard

CRC Tools and Booklets

CRC Toolkit for Providers

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Honor the Gift of Health CRC Booklet

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More Screening Resources

Great Plains Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative FluFIT Toolkit Guide

There is more than one way to get screened. Learn about the options:

Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives (CDC) -- see page 5 for information on screening options

Native People's Wellness: CRC Prevention, Detection and Care -- see pages 6 and 7 for information on screening options

Final Blue Beads Banner, transparent file, 2024 (1)

#BlueBeadsDay

Raise awareness of colorectal cancer in Indian Country by celebrating #BlueBeadsDay! Join AICAF throughout March to encourage loved ones to get screened and help spread the word about early detection. If you are interested in partnering with us for a Blue Beads Day event in your community or at your clinic, please contact health@aicaf.org.