Colorectal Cancer Facts and Figures Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in Washington State after lung cancer. Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer in Washington State and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Washington. Each year, about 3,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and about 1,000 people die of colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer affects women and men of all races.
Starting at age 50, colorectal screening tests are especially important because this cancer can start with few or no symptoms. Regular screening can actually prevent colorectal cancer by finding pre-cancerous growths so that they can be removed before they develop into cancer. Screening can also find cancer early, when treatment works best.