March, Colorectal Can-cer Awareness Month, is a time to recommit ourselves to being educated about cancer, the importance of early detection, supporting research that can save lives, and improving access to treatment in rural America.

Since 2000, March has been recognized as Nat-ional Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.  In the nine years that have passed, we have had promising news regarding this often preventable disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), incidences have dropped by 2.2 percent in women and 2.8 percent in men. Moreover mortality has dropped by 4.3 percent.

While these numbers may seem small, they amount to thousands of lives saved and experts believe it can be attributed to the increase in screening and early detection. Colorectal cancer is unique from most other cancers— when screening for the disease doctors can catch it before it turns into cancer.

In West Virginia, it is estimated that 1,200 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2008 and 450 lost their battle with the disease. Men and women at average risk should be screened for colorectal cancer when they turn 50 and those with a family history should be screened earlier. 

These colorectal cancer screening tests have the ability to help save even more lives, but only about half of adults over 50 are having one of the recommended screening tests as it continues to be the second leading cancer killer amongst men and women combined.

My family, like many, has been affected by cancer. As many of you are aware, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent cancer surgery in 2006.  I am very thankful for all of the West Virginians who contacted me, offering their prayers and support, as I prepared for the surgery, throughout my recovery, and to this day.

I am truly grateful to the doctors who diagnosed and treated my cancer.

My story is an excellent example of screening saving lives.  But screening alone is not the only way to prevent tragedy.  Research has shown that a healthy lifestyle can also be crucial in the prevention of cancer. Maintain a healthy weight and exercise most days of the week.  If you don’t smoke, don’t start, and if you do smoke, stop.

If you are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, talk to your health care professional about your treatment options.  When caught in its earliest, most treatable stages, colorectal cancer has a 90 percent survival rate. 

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time for you to start a dialogue with your doctor about your risk, screening options and steps you can take to prevent this disease. It is also a great time to talk to your family, friends and loved ones about reducing their risk and getting screened.

For more information about colorectal cancer prevention and early detection, visit the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Web site at .

U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV) represents West Virginia’s 3rd District.