No Shave November – November 8 Update: Greatest Beards In Rock

As we are eight days in to No Shave November, today we pay tribute to some of the greatest beards in rock.

Seems like in the last couple of years that beards are coming more in to style. Not going to lie, as my beard keeps growing I am more and more thinking about keeping it even after No Shave November is over.

The big reason for growing the beard this year is to raise awareness for the Colon Cancer Alliance. At the time of this post we are almost halfway to our goal of $500. We ask that you please donate to this amazing cause that helps patients of colon cancer, their families, and using the money raised for research.

You are NEVER to young to get colon cancer. Though a majority of the cases are in people over the age of 50 (yes, even women can get colon cancer - it's not just a "guy thing."), about an average of 10% of diagnosis happen in those under 50.

Here are some more facts on how colon cancer does not discriminate against age from the CCA's NeverTooYoung.org website:

• In the U.S., approximately 10% of colon cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals under age 50.
• Colon cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing in the under 50 population (young-onset), while decreasing in those over 50.
• Young-onset rectal cancer incidence has increased at nearly twice the rate of young-onset colon cancer.
• Young-onset has a preference for the distal colon (the segment of your colon right before the rectum begins) or rectum and often presents at an advanced stage.
• Screening is recommended to start earlier than age 50 in those with a family history of colon cancer or advanced adenomas (noncancerous tumors), and in those with hereditary genetic syndromes associated with increased risk. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease or other conditions increasing risk may also benefit from close follow-up.
• Individuals under 50 who have symptoms that may be consistent with colon cancer need to seek medical attention so the appropriate testing can be done and deserve a prompt and thorough examination.
• Physician-related delays (e.g., missed symptoms, initial misdiagnosis) have been estimated to occur in 15-50% of young-onset colon cancer cases.*
• Discussions of lowering the screening age for the average-risk population have begun. As it stands, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) feels there is insufficient evidence for lowering the screening age to 40 years in the average-risk population.

Once again, if you can please donate to this great cause to help raise awareness on a subject that is missed by most.