The bill H. 5299, introduced in the South Carolina House of Representatives, declares March 2026 as "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month." The resolution aims to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the state. It highlights alarming statistics, including an estimated 2,600 new cases and over 900 deaths due to the disease in South Carolina for the year. The resolution emphasizes the importance of screening and prevention, particularly noting that colorectal cancer can often be prevented through appropriate screening, which remains underutilized.
The resolution calls on all citizens of South Carolina to educate themselves about colorectal cancer screening and prevention methods. It acknowledges the state's leadership in innovative screening programs and stresses that early detection significantly increases the chances of long-term survival, with over 1.5 million colorectal cancer survivors currently in the United States. By adopting this resolution, the House of Representatives aims to promote awareness and encourage proactive health measures among the population.