One of the most common cancers in the United States is also one of the most unpleasant to discuss.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, raising the public consciousness of this disease that does not discriminate against any racial and ethnic group, but is most often found in people 50 and older. Colorectal cancer remains the fourth most common cancer nationwide and the second leading cause of death from cancer.

“The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50,” said Dr. John Flannery, of Colon and Rectal Surgery of New England, in a press statement.

“There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.”

Getting screened starting at age 50 is one of a few simple steps to help precent colorectal cancer, along with keeping from smoking and secondhand smoke, eating healthy and getting physical activity.

Locally, Southern New Hampshire Health is participating in raising awareness this month with an event March 13 at the Nashua Senior Center.

Registered nurses Carol Kahn and Bethany St. Onge, from Southern New Hampshire Health’s Endoscopy Department, will present a ‘Senior Supper’ about colorectal cancer screenings and will cover options, procedure and an opportunity to view some of the equipment.

Registration details are available at www.

snhhealth.org/classes.