You might see radiology departments across the country wearing a little more blue than usual on March 3, otherwise known as National Dress in Blue Day. Part of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Dress in Blue Day is intended to raise awareness of the preventable nature of colon cancer.

Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, killing about 50,000 people every year. It’s also often preventable—but one of every three people between the ages of 50 and 75 isn't undergoing recommended screening. Precancerous polyps or colon cancer don’t always cause identifiable symptoms, underlining the importance of regular screening exams.

In addition to wearing blue on March 3, interested parties can sign up for one of several Undy Runs held across the country. Funds raised during the charity races support local and national prevention, research, and patient support program—to the tune of 86 cents for every dollar donated.

Hospitals or imaging practices can raise awareness by promoting Dress in Blue Day on social media or through patient-facing newsletters. Other outreach methods include hosting an open house or educational session to answer the public’s questions about colon cancer screening or reaching out to local media outlets and requesting coverage. Guides for these outreach efforts can be found at the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.

March was designated Colon Cancer Awareness Month by President Bill Clinton in 2000. While the mortality rate has been steadily dropping since the early 1990s, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, 60 percent of colon cancer deaths are ultimately preventable. Participating in Colon Cancer Awareness month and educating patients about the benefits of consistent screening is a win-win for both patients and providers.

For more information visit the Colon Cancer Alliance.