Ratingen, 15 April 2026 – Fujifilm Europe continues its commitment to colon health education and cancer prevention with its Colon Health Awareness Days on 14 and 15 April 2026 at the company’s European headquarters in Ratingen. Now in its second year, this initiative offers low-threshold, interactive experiences aimed at raising awareness of bowel health and addressing an important yet often under-discussed topic: colorectal cancer prevention.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and timely testing and screening can save lives. A study published by BMJ Journals has shown an increase in colorectal cancer incidence in adults aged 20–49 years in Europe. Fujifilm’s awareness days focus strongly on prevention through education.
According to the Felix Burda Foundation (published February 2026):
• Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Germany (after breast cancer) and the third most common among men (after prostate and lung cancer).
• About one in nine cancer cases in Germany affects the colon or rectum. The diagnosis of colorectal cancer is made during a lifetime in one out of 15 men and one out of 19 women.
• Since the introduction of statutory colonoscopy screening in Germany in 2002, around 365,000 cases and 185,000 deaths from bowel cancer have been prevented as a result.
This year, the event features a unique blend of education and participation. In the prevention area the focus lies on promoting the benefits of healthy nutrition and physical exercise. For this, Fujifilm collaborates with the company Yakult. As one of the pioneers of probiotics in Europe, Yakult is particularly committed to raising awareness about the importance of a healthy gut for overall well-being. Additionally, attendees can try out a smoothie bike, a playful activity that makes learning about healthy lifestyle both fun and active.
Visitors will also experience the Mikoto colonoscopy training model, an interactive simulation device used by physicians to train in colonoscopy procedures, offering an insightful, hands-on understanding of this crucial screening technique. Fujifilm further enhances the visitor experience with demonstrations of its latest endoscopy technology within the new Brand Experience Centre (BEC). These advanced imaging and AI-powered diagnostic tools enable earlier, more precise detection of colorectal cancer, aligning with Fujifilm’s mission to drive innovation that improves patient outcomes.
Alongside technology and prevention, Fujifilm brings powerful personal stories to the forefront. As a “Visionary Partner” of the Union for International Cancer Control’s (UICC) World Cancer Day initiative for 2025–2027, Fujifilm highlights Life Stories: Cancer Journeys - a compelling campaign where patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals document their cancer experiences through instax WIDE Evo™ photography. One such story is that of Dozie Akwarandu from Nigeria, who, after a stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis, turned his journey into advocacy by founding the Nest Of Hope Advocacy and Support Community. His work focuses on breaking the stigma of cancer and fostering holistic care grounded in empathy and compassion.
Fujifilm also strengthens its commitment beyond awareness by supporting young adults affected by cancer - a group often overlooked despite facing unique challenges in critical life phases. In June 2025, Fujifilm donated €15,000 to the German Foundation for Young Adults with Cancer (Deutsche Stiftung für junge Erwachsene mit Krebs), partly funding the local meeting point TREFFPUNKT Düsseldorf, a community initiative offering young cancer patients a safe space to share experiences, seek support, and engage in advocacy efforts.
“We are immensely proud to host these Colon Health Awareness Days, which are connected to our partnership with the wider cancer community and our shared mission to combat colorectal cancer”, says Masataka Akiyama, President & Managing Director of Fujifilm Europe. “As a Healthcare market leader, Fujifilm is dedicated to advancing early detection and intervention through our innovative endoscopy and colonoscopy solutions. This event reflects our holistic approach, combining technology, education, and compassion, to encourage people to take proactive steps towards their bowel health, ultimately improving patient outcomes and saving lives.”
Maj-Anna Carstensen
Corporate Communications Officer
FUJIFILM Europe GmbH
maj-anna.carstensen@fujifilm.com