Colorectal Cancer Awareness: Cycling and Running Event Highlights Importance of Screening

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, healthcare professionals and volunteers from the University Hospitals of Nîmes and Montpellier participated in a unique event to raise awareness about colorectal cancer screening. Cyclists and runners, many wearing blue t-shirts, converged at the Lawrence-Durrell space in Nîmes, demonstrating a collective commitment to public health.

Raising Awareness for Colorectal Cancer

Dr. Caillo, a gastroenterologist at Nîmes University Hospital, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This is the first time we have organized this event and we are delighted with the success it has had. The participants are very motivated. Coming from Montpellier by bike was, for some, an adventure!” The initiative, dubbed “Blue Mars,” aims to complement existing cancer prevention efforts, such as those focused on breast cancer through Pink October, by specifically addressing the importance of colorectal cancer screening.

Screening Resources Available

An information stand was set up at the entrance to the media library, providing resources and colorectal cancer test kits to the public. Representatives from the Gard cancer league, including President Mathieu, and the Passerelle of the cancer league, led by President Denise Garriga, were present to offer support and guidance. Ms. Garriga highlighted the availability of targeted workshops for patients in the Sommiérois sector, with contact information available at 06 12 19 07 57.

The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but early detection through screening can dramatically improve outcomes. Screening tests can find polyps – abnormal growths in the colon or rectum – that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Regular screening is recommended for individuals starting at age 45, though guidelines may vary based on individual risk factors. American Cancer Society

Local Resources

• CHU de Nîmes: https://www.chu-nimes.fr/
• Institut du Cancer de Montpellier: https://www.icm.unicancer.fr/fr

Upcoming Events at the Institut du Cancer de Montpellier

The Institut du Cancer de Montpellier is hosting several events in the coming months:

• March 26-27, 2026: Therapeutic De-escalation in Oncology
• April 3, 2026: Management of Immunotherapy Toxicities
• April 14, 2026: 20th Meeting on Cancer
• April 16, 2026: EPU Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
• April 23-25, 2026: 19th Health, Law and Environment Conference
• May 19-21, 2026: European Low-Grade Glioma Network (ELGGN)

For more information on these events, visit the Institut du Cancer de Montpellier website.