Partners in Prevention:
Working to Prevent Colorectal Cancer
Most Delaware hospitals now have staff dedicated to promoting colorectal cancer screening.
Partners in Prevention, a program initiated by the Delaware Cancer Consortium, has created a statewide network of screening advocates and care coordinators. Positions are supported with Delaware Health Fund cancer prevention and treatment appropriations by the Delaware General Assembly.
This was one of the first efforts of the Delaware Cancer Consortium's Colorectal Cancer Committee. Committee Chair Stephen S. Grubbs, M.D., says "the goal of the committee is to significantly reduce Delaware's colorectal cancer death rate over the next five years and close the gap in cancer mortality rates for the disadvantaged through statewide colorectal cancer screening and prevention."
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in both men and women in Delaware. It is also the third-ranked cause of cancer deaths in the state.
"Get Tested For Colon Cancer"
The committee also is conducting a statewide media campaign encouraging Delawareans to get tested for colorectal cancer. The campaign uses print, radio and television advertisements which feature statements from real Delawareans on the importance of screening and early detection in the battle against colorectal cancer.
Champions of Change
Colorectal cancer kills an alarming number of African Americans in Delaware who haven't been tested. Champions of Change is a comprehensive, grassroots effort to help organizations working in African American communities. Its objectives are to promote testing for colorectal cancer, and to make it easier for residents to obtain the screening.
Champions of Change will supply free educational materials to participating groups throughout Delaware. This includes brochures and information about Screening for Life, a program that pays for colon cancer screening for uninsured and underinsured Delawareans who meet income requirements. In addition to distributing materials, Champions of Change will help groups identify resources to overcome obstacles to testing, such as lack of day care or transportation for those who are getting tested.
To obtain more information, or a Champions of Change toolkit and button, please contact: sam@a-b-c.com.
