A community-wide commitment to improving colorectal cancer screening rates among the underserved

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. And yet, it’s highly treatable and can be stopped if it’s caught early.  Most people should start screening at age 45. In Massachusetts, only 70% of those adults have had a colorectal screen. Across some communities in the greater Boston area served by Mass General Brigham, CRC screening rates are lower than the national average. Language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of awareness all play a role. 

That’s what led the office of the Chief Medical Officer, Health Equity, at Mass General Brigham to develop an awareness campaign to promote screening, early identification, diagnosis, and prevention. The multi-language campaign launched for four weeks during June 2025, with a goal of increasing awareness that early detection can save your life.

The key messages of the campaign to patient audiences:   

•    Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that can be stopped if caught early. 

•    Colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Screening is essential for early detection, as patients may not be aware they are at risk.

•    People should start getting checked at age 45. If someone has a higher chance of getting sick, they should talk to a doctor about getting screened earlier. 

•    There are different ways to get checked. Take care of your health and ask your doctor which test is right for you. Stool-based tests and colonoscopy are both available and good methods of screening. 

The target audience was Commonwealth community members 45+ in culturally diverse communities who reside in Chelsea, Revere, Mission Hill, Chinatown, Lynn, Salem, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Mattapan, and Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. The approach was to ensure that information was clear, culturally relevant, and available in multiple languages—including English, Spanish, Chinese, and Haitian Creole.

Together, these efforts demonstrate how strategic, community-centered outreach can turn awareness into action. By meeting people where they are—on their commutes, online, and in trusted cultural spaces—we helped empower individuals with the knowledge that preventive care can save lives. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early, and screening is one of the most effective tools we have to protect our communities. The next step is simple—and it’s yours to take. If you’re eligible, schedule your screening today and take an important step toward safeguarding your health and your future.

Why colorectal screening matters—and when to start
For most people, screening should begin at age 45. Those with higher risk factors—such as family history or certain medical conditions—may need to start earlier. There are multiple screening options available, including stool-based tests like the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) test and colonoscopy. Both methods are effective, and your doctor can help determine which is right for you. Taking this simple step can prevent cancer before it starts.