Making an Impact Through Awareness: March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month | | |
In 1970, legendary Coach Vince Lombardi passed away from colon cancer at 57, just ten weeks after his diagnosis. Today, colorectal cancer remains the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, with an estimated 158,850 new cases expected this year alone.
While it has historically affected older adults, diagnoses among younger individuals are rising at an alarming rate – 1 in 5 cases now occur in people under age 55, and it is the leading cause of cancer death in those under 50.
The good news: colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early.
GET SCREENED
Colorectal cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, making screening one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent it. Screening can detect cancer early – when it’s most treatable – and even identify and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.
Regular screening is now recommended starting at age 45 for those at average risk. However, certain factors may increase your risk and require earlier or more frequent screening, including:
- A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- A hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome (such as FAP or Lynch syndrome)
- Inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, or obesity
- A history of abdominal or pelvic radiation
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage, which is associated with increased risk
There are multiple screening options available, and it is important to talk with your doctor about what is right for you.
Early detection saves lives. VLCF is continuing to raise awareness on social media throughout March, and there is still time to follow us to help spread the word. Every share, every conversation, and every informed decision can help save a life.
| | Making an Impact Through Research: Optimizing Survivorship for Younger Adults with Colorectal Cancer | | As we work to raise awareness and promote early detection, we are also proud to support research that deepens our understanding of colorectal cancer and improves long‑term outcomes for patients. | |
In 2024, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to the University of Michigan to support their research project “Optimizing Survivorship Among Younger Adults with Colorectal Cancer.” This funding helped launch an ambitious study focused on understanding both the clinical and personal challenges faced by younger adults navigating diagnosis, treatment, and life after cancer, led by Associate Professor Pasithorn (Amy) Suwanabol, M.D.
Over the past year, the project identified a statewide cohort of 6,355 early‑onset colorectal cancer patients; analyzed their demographic and clinical characteristics; used insurance data to better understand how younger adults are treated and how they use healthcare services after diagnosis; and conducted interviews with survivors ages 18-49 to understand the personal and long-term impact of their diagnosis and treatment. Early findings are showcasing significant unmet needs, including fertility and sexual health concerns and workplace disruptions.
Dr. Suwanabol notes, "Our research is revealing how younger adults with colorectal cancer often fall through the cracks of a system not designed for them. Their experiences—of delayed diagnosis, long-term side effects, and deep uncertainty—should push us to reimagine survivorship care that is age-relevant, equitable, and future-focused."
Because colorectal cancer diagnoses continue to rise among adults under 50, this research is critical to improving quality of life and long-term outcomes for thousands of patients. The insights from this study will help shape more personalized, age-appropriate survivorship care, ensuring patients are better supported not just during treatment, but throughout their lives after cancer.
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The work of the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation is not possible without support from individuals like you. Donate today to help advance more research and improve care for patients. Your gift fuels projects like the one above – driving discoveries, enhancing survivorship, and bringing hope to families affected by cancer.
Join us in our mission to prevent cancer, provide superior patient care, and, ultimately, find a cure.
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Last call to join us in Arizona! Don’t miss the 4th Annual Lombardi Southwest Open on April 18 in Scottsdale. Attendees will enjoy an incredible day on the course with an 18-hole tournament at Talking Stick Golf Club, with a chance to win our first-place prize of a foursome at the Lombardi Golf Classic, followed by an evening under the stars at Kick Cancer’s TAILgate Bash.
It's the perfect spring getaway – sunshine and great golf, all while supporting lifesaving cancer research and treatment programs.
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Lombardi Golf Classic: June 5-6, 2026
Join us as we celebrate 55 years of impact at our new golf venue, The Wisconsin Country Club! Visit our website for more information.
Vince Lombardi Birthday Celebration: June 11, 2026
Save the date for a reception-style happy hour honoring Vince Lombardi's birthday! More details coming soon.
Food & Wine Experience: November 6-7, 2026
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of food, wine, and fundraising! Relive highlights from last year's event on our website.
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Saturday, March 7, was an unforgettable evening filled with celebration, inspiration, and hope as over 300 people gathered for the 35th Anniversary Award of Excellence Dinner.
Together, we celebrated this year’s Award of Excellence recipient, the Milwaukee Brewers, and our Champion for a Cure awardee, Cecelia Gore, recognizing their leadership, pursuit of excellence, and dedication to community. It was truly a night to remember!
| | More Ways to Make an Impact | |
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IRA Distributions: If you are 73 or older, you can donate any or all of your IRA Required Minimum Distribution to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation without paying income tax on the amount transferred.
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Donor-Advised Funds: Direct a grant to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation through your Donor-Advised Fund.
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Bequests: You can help fund innovative cancer research for years to come by including the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation in your will or trust.
| | Join Lombardi's League with a recurring monthly donation and receive exclusive discounts to the 2026 Food & Wine Tasting Gala, and other benefits. | | | | | |
