Myth: Colon cancer is a disease that affects only Caucasian males.

Truth: Colon cancer affects individuals equally regardless of gender and, typically, race. Recent studies suggest that African-Americans have a higher incidence of colon cancer and, therefore, might begin their screenings at age 45. If you are African-American, discuss this issue with your physician. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2008 the estimated new cases of colon cancer number 108,070 and new cases of rectal cancer will reach 40,740 Nearly 50,000 people are expected to die of colon and rectal cancer in 2008.