Thousands of lives are being saved by the screening of colorectal and breast cancer but much more could be done, according to the CDC reports.

CDC agency said that thousands of people died last year because they weren't screened. The report stated that colorectal screening increased from 52% in 2002 to 63% in 2008 but about 22 million men and women had not taken it. About 81% of women in 50-74 age group reported that they had mammography screening but 7 million did not have it.

Colorectal cancer has caused the death of more American nonsmokers than any other cancer. The researchers have used the figures from the 2008 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

After lung cancer, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U. S. Breast cancer is the most commonly found cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the U. S.

Couric, a CBS News anchorwoman, became a strong advocate for screening after her husband died of the disease. She underwent a colonoscopy on live television in March 2000. This Katie Couric effect led to a steep rise in screening. Public education regarding cancer is hence imperative.

The report also concluded that the people who were insured and had better income and education were more prone to go in for the screening