Blue March: what is colorectal cancer month for?

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Blue March what is colorectal cancer month for

Mars Bleu is the month dedicated to colorectal cancer screening, which affects nearly 45,000 men and women each year in France. Detected early, it can be cured in 90% of cases. Origin, date, actions, poster, associations, connected Mars Bleu challenge…

Blue Mars corresponds to colorectal cancer screening month, 3rd most common cancer and the 2nd deadliest cancer in France, according to figures from the National Cancer Institute. “For some, testing may be taboo, but it needs to be talked abouteveryone involved should be encouraged to do the test (stool, editor’s note) as soon as possible. Since this year, it is available in pharmacies“. explains Daniel Nizri, President of the League Against Cancer in a press release dated February 21, 2023. Each year, nearly 45,000 men and women are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and nearly 18,000 people die from it. Detected early, colorectal cancer could be cured in 90% of cases. Origin, 2024 dates, actions, connected challenge, poster, logo: know everything.

What is Blue Mars?

Organized by the Ministry of Health, the National Cancer Institute and Health Insurance, Mars Bleu is an annual meeting which takes place throughout the month of March. This is a colorectal cancer screening awareness month. “It is important to note that the various screening methods aim not only to identify cancers at an early stage and with a favorable prognosis, but also to detect precancerous lesions – polyps in particular – the removal of which helps prevent cancer. This shows the importance of participation in screening programs!”insists Dr. Bruno Buecher, gastroenterologist and oncogeneticist at the Institut Curie.

The screening consists of an immunological test that does not prevent cancerbut which makes it possible to establish a early diagnosis, making it possible to quickly set up care and improve the chances of recovery. From now on, no need to go through a consultation with the doctor. Eligible persons who have received the invitation to the screening must go to the website www.monkit.depistage colorectal.fr with the number appearing on the invitation letter. A questionnaire determines whether the test is appropriate based on the person’s personal and family history. If so, the test will be sent to him. The consultation of the test result is done online via www.result-depistage.fr

How long has Mars Bleu existed?

Operation Mars Bleu was launched in 2009 by the Ministry of Health and the National Cancer Institute (Inca).

What does the blue ribbon, symbol of colorectal cancer, mean?

Many diseases are symbolized by small colored ribbons. For example, the pink ribbon represents breast cancer. The red ribbon is the symbol of the fight against AIDS and HIV. The yellow ribbon is worn to support endometriosis and bone cancer. The blue ribbon on the other hand represents cancers colorectal and prostate cancer.

What will be the dates of Blue Mars in 2024?

In 2024, Mars Bleu will take place from Friday March 1 to Sunday March 31.

What is the Mars Bleu logo and poster?

Blue Mars Logo © Blue Mars
Blue March 2023 Poster
Blue Mars Poster © The League Against Cancer

How to participate in the Mars Bleu connected challenge?

The Cancer Screening Center (CRCDC Sud Paca) offers a connected challenge every year throughout the month of March : achieve the most kilometers in favor of colorectal cancer screening whether on foot, running or cycling. Free registration on this site. The course is free in compliance with the “Eco-Responsible Charter of the connected runner” with its connected object (connected watch, mobile application). Donations are entirely donated to the CRCDC SUD PACA to improve the promotion of organized cancer screenings.

Which associations support Mars Bleu?

Many associations, institutes and foundations commit each year against colorectal cancer and propose initiatives as part of the “Mars Bleu” awareness campaign. Here is a non-exhaustive list of organizations supporting the event:

  • The League Against Cancer
  • The National Cancer Institute (InCA)
  • The ARC Foundation for Cancer Research
  • The Gustave Roussy Institute
  • The Health Provident Association
  • AMGEN and Rose Up
  • Afa Crohn RCH France
  • Act against Cancer 26
  • Federation of Private Hospitalization Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics…

Sources:

Press release of the League against cancer, Blue March 2023

Blue March, French public health sheet

Screening for colorectal cancer: Mars Bleu, Regional Health Agency

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