LOUISVILLE, Ky. — March 26, 2026 — March is recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most preventable, and increasingly concerning forms of cancer. A recent study published in the Cancer Journal for Clinicians reported a troubling rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults, across every racial and ethnic group, with experts urging earlier screening and greater attention to environmental and lifestyle risk factors.
Family Health Centers, Inc. (FHC), a Louisville-based community health center, is responding to this growing concern through its ongoing partnership with Vanderbilt University’s Southern Environmental Health Study (SEHS) which is working to better understand how environmental exposures may contribute to cancer risk.
“Colorectal cancer is no longer just a disease of older adults,” said Dr. Miranda Coole, Chief Medical Officer at Family Health Centers. “We are seeing more cases in younger populations, which makes research like this, and early detection and prevention, even more critical.” The published study notes that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in adults younger than 50 years for reasons that remain largely unknown.
As part of the effort to better understand the reasons for higher rates of colorectal cancer in younger people, eligibility for the Southern Environmental Health Study is expanding. Participants are now able to enroll if they are between the ages of 30 and 70, broadening access to include younger adults who may be at increasing risk.
The Southern Environmental Health Study examines how environmental exposures, such as chemicals encountered in everyday life, may influence cancer development. Participants complete a survey and wear a silicone wristband for seven days that can detect more than 1,400 chemical signals. Optional biological samples may also be collected to further support research.
“By better understanding the environmental and lifestyle contributors to cancer, we can work to create healthier communities,” said Vanderbilt University researcher Dr. Martha Shrubsole.
To date, more than 500 individuals in Louisville have enrolled, joining nearly 19,000 participants across the Southern United States. Many participants are motivated by personal experiences with cancer or a desire to improve health outcomes in their communities. Participants may receive up to $45 for completing the study.
During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Family Health Centers also encourages individuals to talk with their provider about appropriate cancer screenings. Early detection through screening, now recommended starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals, remains one of the most effective ways to prevent colorectal cancer or catch it early when it is most treatable. “Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, but only if people get screened,” said Kristin Munro Leighton, Health Education Director and SEHS Coordinator at Family Health Centers. “Screening isn’t just about your health, it’s about being there for the people who count on you.”
To learn more or enroll in the SEHS study, visit www.sehstudy.org/info-fhc or call 502-772-8684. Persons in need of a colon cancer screening should speak to their primary care provider or call the- Family Health Centers to make an appointment at 502-774-8631 to learn about their options.
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Siegel RL, Wagle NS, Star J, Kratzer TB, Smith RA, Jemal A. Colorectal cancer statistics, 2026. CA Cancer J Clin. 2026;e70067. doi:10.3322/caac.70067 Available at: https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.70067