National Dress in Blue Day is an awareness day to bring attention to the causes of colon cancer and the need for early screening. The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 25 for women, and this accounts for about 53,000 unexpected deaths over the course of a year.

However, studies have shown that with early detection, colorectal cancer is very treatable. That’s why everyone is encouraged to wear blue on the first Friday in March to raise awareness about this disease and to encourage everyone to get checked for it early.

The History of National Dress in Blue Day

National Dress in Blue Day was created by Anita Mitchell in 2006. As a Stage IV colon cancer survivor and founder of Colon Cancer Stars, she decided to create a day to raise awareness about colon cancer. She started it as a local school program at first, and it was later picked up by the Colon Cancer Alliance in 2009. It has been celebrated as a holiday ever since.

Facts to Know About Colon Cancer

Below are some facts that everyone should know about colon cancer. We hope the following facts encourage everyone to get screened early for colon cancer.

• People with a family history of colon cancer have a 2 to 4 times higher risk of developing it.
• Colon cancer affects men and women of all ethnicities.
• A colonoscopy is the most effective colon cancer screening test.

Observing National Dress in Blue Day

As the name of this holiday suggests, everyone is encouraged to wear blue on this day to raise awareness about colon cancer. It’s also a good day for people to schedule a colon screening. While you’re observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalDressInBlueDay on your social media accounts to spread the word about it.