With many competing priorities this year, it's important that employers continue efforts to educate their workforce about the importance of preventive care. As March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, this presents an opportune time to encourage preventive actions that can help mitigate the risk to their employees. After all, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S., affecting approximately 140,000 people and causing 50,000 deaths each year. Fortunately, it is also one of the most preventable cancers; and regular screenings and early detection are associated with a decreased rate of colorectal cancer illness and death in recent years.

Erin Peterson, MPH, is a research associate with Integrated Benefits Institute.

We already know the benefits of catching cancer early – both for individuals and employers. The earlier the disease is caught, the more likely it is confined to small defined areas that are treatable. This results in better patient outcomes and quicker return to work. Conversely, delays could result in extended and greater severity of illness for individuals. Such illnesses also have an impact on companies, causing absences that create productivity deficits.