This page includes links to all the resources on colorectal cancer contained within the Michigan Cancer Consortium Web site and, in some cases, to external colorectal cancer awareness resources of interest. We encourage you to use this information to help promote colorectal cancer awareness and assist MCC member and partner organizations in accomplishing the MCC Colorectal Cancer Priority.
"Facts About Colorectal Cancer" (Michigan Department of Community Health; February 2009 revision) (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
This Michigan Department of Community Health fact sheet includes statistics on colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, stage at diagnosis, risk factors, screening and diagnosis, and screening behaviors.
"March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month" (Michigan Department of Community Health; June 2009 revision) (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
This Healthy Michigan Legislative Caucus fact sheet includes information about colorectal cancer awareness activities in Michigan, as well as background about the disease of colorectal cancer, its toll on Michigan residents, and prevention strategies. A list of resources for further information also is included.
"Colorectal Cancer in Michigan: Preventable, Beatable, Treatable!" (Michigan Department of Community Health; January 2007) (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
This Michigan Department of Community Health fact sheet includes data and general information about colorectal cancer incidence, the costs and savings associated with screening and early detection, and the need to fund early detection programs in Michigan.
"Colorectal Cancer Initiatives" (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; November 2006) (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
The CDC’s goal is to encourage colorectal cancer prevention and early detection by building partnerships, promoting screening, supporting education and training, and conducting surveillance and research. This fact sheet discusses the burden of colorectal cancer, risk factors, risk reduction, screening, and the accomplishments, ongoing work, and future directions of the CDC initiatives.
Michigan Health Promotions Clearinghouse
The clearinghouse offers
printed materials to educate residents about breast, cervical and colorectal cancers; all materials are available free of charge
in limited quantities to Michigan residents.
Arab-American Colorectal Cancer Public Education Materials
Michigan's large Arab-American population has colorectal cancer screening rates that are significantly lower than the statewide average (18 percent of Arab Americans in Michigan receive appropriate screening, compared with 32 percent of all Michigan residents). To reach this special population group, a grant was awarded to the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) to translate, focus test, and produce an Arabic version of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "Screen for Life" colorectal cancer educational materials. This page discusses the need for colorectal cancer education among this underserved population and also includes links to the translated materials themselves, as well as ordering information.
American Cancer Society (ACS) — Michigan Colorectal Cancer Awareness
Network (CRAN)
CRAN is a Michigan-wide network of individuals and representatives of groups, agencies and organizations who are interested in receiving and sharing information about colorectal cancer. It was developed under the guidance of the Colorectal Cancer Planning Committee in response to the MCC colorectal cancer priority. CRAN promotes colorectal cancer awareness and education about the importance of screening; serves as an information clearinghouse; fosters consistent messaging about colorectal cancer among participants; acts in a support function by assisting in identifying and sharing best practices in promoting public awareness about colorectal cancer; and guides participants in collaborative activities that promote partnerships and sharing of the diversity of expertise and resources.
CRAN has promotional materials available for your use. For more information, please see the ACS Colon Cancer Communications Support document (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file).*
ACS:Cancer Facts for Lesbians and Bisexual Women The most common types of cancer among women are breast, lung, colon, uterine, and ovarian. Several studies suggest that lesbians and bisexual women get less routine care than other women, including breast and cervical cancer screening. The reasons for this include: low rates of health insurance; fear of discrimination; and past negative experience with health care providers. The ACS has created this brochure to help raise awareness. The brochure contains information about risk factors, as well as prevention and early detection recommendations for breast, gynecological, lung, skin, and colon cancers. To order copies of the booklet, contact your local ACS office or phone ACS toll-free at 800-ACS-2345.
Michigan Association of Health Plans Foundation
The foundation has produced a variety of materials promoting colorectal cancer awareness, including postcards and check stub inserts.
Taking on Chronic Disease in Michigan order form(available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)* offering a variety of colorectal cancer awareness resource materials that are available free of charge, including:
Weyerhauser Company Workplace Colorectal Cancer Campaign
In 2004, Weyerhaeuser Company announced a multinational launch of a new workplace colorectal cancer campaign. Their design team crafted several resource materials that include basic information about colorectal cancer and its prevention, risk factors, screening, and symptoms.
The following one-page flyers from the campaign are available for use:
What Collaboration Can Accomplish
Curious about the potential of a comprehensive, collaborative approach to cancer control? Compare the text and staging maps for breast cancer and colorectal cancer in Michigan and see for yourself a vivid picture of the difference collaborative action can make.
Cancer Control P.L.A.N.E.T. http://cancercontrolplanet.cancer.gov
The Cancer Control P.L.A.N.E.T. Web portal is a collaborative effort aimed at providing access to data and resources that can help cancer control planners, health educators, program staff, and researchers design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based cancer control programs. Topic areas include: breast cancer; cervical cancer; colorectal cancer; diet and nutrition; informed decision making; physical activity; sun safety; survivorship; and tobacco control.The Cancer Control P.L.A.N.E.T. Web portal is intended to help its audience achieve its shared goals of reducing cancer incidence and the number of deaths from cancer and enhancing quality of life for cancer survivors. Cancer Control P.L.A.N.E.T. sponsors include: the National Cancer Institute; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; the American Cancer Society; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; and the Commission on Cancer.
Cancer Survival Toolbox www.canceradvocacy.org/toolbox
The Cancer Survival Toolbox is a free, self-learning audio program that has been developed by leading cancer organizations to help people develop important skills to better meet and understand the challenges of their illness. While created primarily for people who have been recently diagnosed with cancer, the Toolbox can help anyone who is facing hard decisions and changes in life due to cancer. Family members and caregivers can also use the Toolbox on behalf of a child or anyone else affected by cancer.
Inside Cancer http://insidecancer.org
This award-winning Web site, operated by the Dolan DNA Learning Center at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, offers users a multimedia guide to cancer biology. Through animations and expert interviews, visitors learn the hallmarks of cancer, cancer causes and prevention, cancer diagnosis and treatment, and cancer pathways. The site was produced by a grant from the National Center for Research Resources, a component of the National Institutes of Health.
Colorectal Cancer Interventions in Local Public Health Jurisdictions with High Mortality Counties (Michigan Cancer Consortium; December 2005)
In October 2004, a one-year project was kicked off with three MCC member organizations, Chippewa Health Department, Genesee County Health Department and District #10 Health Department, to identify the barriers to early detection of colorectal cancer in their respective localities. The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) and Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) funded the project with monies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in support of the MCC.
Cancer Screening: Payer Cost/Benefit thru Employee Benefits Programs (Milliman Consultants and Actuaries; November 2005) (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)* Some of the biggest successes and most effective weapons in the war on cancer — screening (early detection) and prevention — are not being used as effectively as they should be. Leading authorities have established that cancer screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers are effective at reducing these cancers' incidence, severity and mortality. This November 2005 paper, which was commissioned by C-Change and the American Cancer Society, demonstrates that covering and promoting full compliance with established screening recommendations thru employer-sponsored programs is low cost and cost effective for employee benefit programs.
Michigan Dialogue for Action 2004
On Sept. 10, 2004, Michigan held its first Dialogue for Action meeting. The Dialogue is an all-day colorectal cancer symposium based upon the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation’s highly successful colorectal cancer campaign and conferences. It offers participants the chance to interact with other state leaders at a conference that is focused on providing access to colorectal cancer screening programs as part of a comprehensive and coordinated cancer control strategy. An educational session was offered the previous evening to help prepare participants for full participation in the day-long event. The final product of that conference included recommendations and strategies to address the colorectal cancer screening needs of uninsured and underinsured Michigan residents.
Michigan Colorectal Cancer Screening Program (2006 - current)
Funded by the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Michigan Colorectal Cancer Screening Program (MCRCSP) began in 2006 and was built
upon lessons learned from 2005-2006 Pilot Program. The ongoing program provides colorectal cancer screening to asymptomatic low-income, uninsured and underinsured individuals in three northern Michigan public health jurisdictions (15 counties) and through the Healthy Asian American Project (2006-2007) at the University of Michigan.
Michigan Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Pilot Program (2005-2006)
The pilot program was designed to test a colorectal cancer early detection program for uninsured residents who lived in counties with high colorectal cancer mortality rates, were between the ages of 50 and 64, and had incomes that were at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level. The Michigan Colorectal Cancer Pilot Screening Program was implemented throughout three rural health departments in areas with higher than average colorectal cancer mortality rates. Average-risk participants who met the project's age, income and insurance eligibility requirements received a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit with instructions for its completion. Persons determined to be of higher-than average risk for colorectal cancer were referred for colonoscopy and appropriate at-risk candidates were referred for additional genetic counseling.
Identification of Barriers to Early Detection in Hispanic Populations (2006) The purpose of this project was to learn about the systems barriers to colorectal cancer screening and appropriate follow-up of abnormal results in Hispanic populations in Michigan. Ancillary goals of this project were to learn of cultural-, ethnic-, and/or gender-specific issues related to colorectal screening. To gather information about the barriers, the evaluation team conducted eight focus groups, segregated by male and female participants, in three Michigan cities with higher-than-average Hispanic/Latino populations: Grand Rapids, Holland, and Lansing. Focus group leaders posed questions designed to determine participants' perspective on provider's cultural sensitivies when providing health care.
Identification of Barriers to Early Detection in American Indian Populations (2006) The purpose of this project was to begin to understand the differences in screening data for the American Indian population in Michigan by learning about the barriers to colorectal cancer screening and appropriate follow-up of abnormal results. With the assistance and guidance of the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc., project researchers asked two of Michigan’s tribal communities to participate in focus groups and share information regarding what they perceived to be the barriers to the early detection of colorectal cancer in their communities. Health providers from the tribal community clinics participated in separate interviews/focus groups regarding their perceptions of the barriers to colorectal cancer screening and the appropriate follow-up for abnormal screening results.
Promotion of Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Among American Indians (2007) Through support from Michigan Department of Community Health with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a second project was conducted by Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan. This project further addressed the need for education on the importance of colon cancer screening and the need for more detailed information on various types of tests and their procedures. Building on the efforts from previous projects, Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan and its tribal members acquired additional funding from the Prevent Cancer Foundation.
Results of this work include: several culturally specific educational posters adapted from the CDC’s Screen for Life Promotions; a simplified fecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit instruction package; and localized brochures targeting community members and including facts and figures, as well as information about the types of tests and their procedures, and local resource information. The resources were compiled into kits and distributed to all 12 tribes.
Charting Progress: Colorectal Cancer in Local Public Health Jurisdictions with High Mortality Counties (2006)
The purpose of this project was to better understand how, and to what extent, community-based colorectal cancer prevention projects continue after state funding has ended and how to work with community partners to implement and support activities.
Colorectal Cancer Interventions in Local Public Health Jurisdictions with High Mortality Counties (2005)
In October 2004, a one-year project was kicked off with three MCC member organizations (Chippewa Health Department, Genesee County Health Department, and District #10 Health Department) to identify the barriers to early detection of colorectal cancer in their respective localities. Each of the three local health departments was chartered to initiate a collaborative and sustainable partnership with community stakeholders to assist them in the one-year project and to continue working together in subsequent years.
Increasing Awareness of Colorectal Cancer Among Asian Americans in Michigan (2005-2006)
As part of this project, the Healthy Asian Americans Project provided half-day and full-day colorectal cancer educational seminars at community picnics, church gatherings, etc. and in the specific-language media. Respected individuals from seven different Asian communities (Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Japanese, Vietnamese, Asian Indian, and Hmong) were identified as community coordinators and asked to recruit members of their respective communities to participate in an educational seminar regarding colorectal cancer awareness.
Evaluating Member Response to Colorectal Cancer Screening (2005) To help determine why colorectal cancer screening rates remain low in Michigan, the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) Foundation, in collaboration with Public Sector Consultants, conducted a study of attitudes and behaviors related to colorectal cancer screening among the at-risk participants (those aged 50 and older) in six MAHP-member health plans. Researchers surveyed 3,235 Michigan adults aged 50 and older who had been selected randomly from lists of participants in the six plans. Questions were framed to determine: whether participants had received information about colorectal cancer; what factors influenced screening decisions; and how respondents perceived the screening process. The study was financed by the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Michigan Public Health Institute using funds from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in support of the Michigan Cancer Consortium.
Final report(available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
Improving Cancer Outcomes for African Americans in Michigan (2002-2004) www.michigancancer.org/WhatWeDo/ImprovingCancerOutcomesAfricanAmericans.cfm
This project was designed to reduce the unequal burden of cancer and improve the quality of life of African Americans in Michigan. The initiative was based on a community engagement model in which African-American community representatives from across socio-economic strata were organized to provide leadership in developing methods to best engage members of their communities to address the issues of cancer. Design Teams were formed in each of the five selected communities to plan and implement activities to engage the larger community to assist in accomplishing the goals of the project through a statewide initiative. The major cancers addressed by the design teams were breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate.
Improving Cancer Outcomes in African Americans (2003-2005) The program's purpose was to mobilize African Americans in designing appropriate methods to promote a greater understanding of the disparity of cancer illness and death. The project also addressed the barriers to cancer prevention and health care in the African American community.
Final report (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
Improving Cancer Early Detection in Primary Care www.michigancancer.org/WhatWeDo/ImprovingCancerEarlyDetectionPrimaryCare.cfm
The goal of the Improving Cancer Early Detection in Primary Care project was to move toward reduction in the burden of cancer by promoting the early detection and follow up of breast, cervical and colorectal cancers. In this project, the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Michigan Public Health Institute funded five health systems (grantees) to improve the health systems' cancer early detection processes in their primary care practices. This called for grantees to work within selected primary care practices (pilot sites) to develop or improve continuous quality improvement (CQI) processes within the pilot site or the health system. Grantees were charged specifically with improving cancer early detection through the use of a CQI process. CQI is a systematic step-wise cycle for organizational improvement, and includes assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation phases.
Colorectal Cancer Education Project: TuscolaCounty (2004) With support from the Michigan Department of Community Health and Michigan Public Health Institute, the Tuscola County Health Department was able to develop a community education project that focused on educating residents about colorectal cancer. The project objectives were to increase residents' knowledge regarding the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer, and to increase residents' knowledge regarding the risk for colorectal cancer.
Final report (available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Screening Project (2002-2004)
In 2002, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Michigan Association of Health Plans Foundation partnered with the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Michigan Public Health Institute to implement a two-fold colorectal cancer screening project: 1) to deliver and evaluate generalized interventions intended to improve colorectal screening rates statewide, as well as focused interventions in a defined region of the state; and 2) to demonstrate the feasibility of using a single audit within Michigan managed care systems to both assess and facilitate increased colorectal cancer screening rates.
Statewide Colorectal Cancer Awareness Network (2002-2004) In October 2002, the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Michigan Public Health Institute, and the Michigan Association of Health Plans Foundation invited health professionals statewide to participate in the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Network. The network, which is commonly known as CRAN, was formed to provide organizations and health groups across the state with access to resources, materials and ideas for public education activities, as well as networking and partnership opportunities with individuals and organizations dedicated to reducing colorectal cancer morbidity and mortality within Michigan.
Colorectal Cancer Professional Education (2002-2004)
In response to the Michigan Cancer Consortium colorectal cancer priority, several MCC member organizations, under the guidance of the Colorectal Cancer Planning Committee, developed and distributed a training tool entitled Colorectal Cancer Professional Education. Distribution of the tool began in October 2003, and included a mass mailing to a targeted health professional audience, as well as presentations at relevant professional meetings and conferences. The resource was also available on the Internet, but has since been removed because it is now outdated.
Colorectal Cancer Public Education Materials for Arab-Americans (2003)
In an effort to reach the Arab-American population with messages about the importance of routine colorectal cancer screening, a grant was awarded to the ACCESS Community Health Center to translate, focus test, and produce Arabic versions of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Screen for Life colorectal cancer public education materials.
The following presentations were prepared for Michigan Cancer Consortium use and were presented at the MCC Colorectal Cancer Advisory Committee's June 21, 2006 meeting. (Please Note: Reproduction of each of the presentations in its entirety is permitted. If a portion of a presentation is used or any of slides are altered, all logos and references must be removed.)
The following presentation was prepared for Michigan Cancer Consortium use and was presented to the MCC Board of Directors during the Board's Sept. 27, 2006 meeting. (Please Note: Reproduction of this presentation in its entirety is permitted. If a portion of the presentation is used or any of slides are altered, all logos and references must be removed.)
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality — Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations www.ahrq.gov/clinic/3rduspstf/colorectal
See the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. Find the recommendations and rationale, as well as the summary of evidence and cost-effectiveness analyses of colorectal cancer screening. A fact sheet and press release are also available.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Division of Cancer Prevention and Control www.cdc.gov/cancer/
As a leader in nationwide efforts to ease the burden of cancer, the CDC Division of Cancer Prevention and Control works with national cancer organizations, state health agencies, and other key groups to develop, implement and promote effective strategies for preventing and controlling cancer.
CDC — Screen for Life Web Site www.cdc.gov/cancer/screenforlife
Use the menu of options on this site to choose from topics such as colorectal cancer information, a glossary of terms, and screening fact sheets for patients and professionals. View selections from a wealth of campaign materials for different cultural groups, including: brochures; public service announcements for television, radio, and print; posters; and media releases. Under scientific resources, view (and download, if desired) the slide set entitled “A Call to Action: Prevention and Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer.” This comprehensive slide set was developed to generate a greater awareness among primary care providers (i.e., physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners) of the importance of prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer.
National Cancer Institute (NCI) — Cancer Genetics Network http://epi.grants.cancer.gov/CGN
The NCI sponsors the Cancer Genetics Network (CGN), a national network of centers specializing in the study of inherited predisposition to cancer. The resource is available to the research community at large to support studies on the genetic basis of human cancer susceptibility, the integration of this information into medical practice, and the behavioral, ethical, and public health issues associated with human genetics. The growing database has information on 24,000 individuals (16,000 families) with
cancer and/or a family history of cancer. Data are available on: cancer
type; a four-generation cancer family history; genetic testing (if performed);
genetic mutation if collected in a CGN special study; any known genetic
syndromes in the family; bio specimens on many enrollees; annual follow-u on all enrollees; history of tobacco use; and socio-demographic information.
In addition, more data are available on subsets of enrollees who have participated
in CGN special studies. The population enrolled makes possible research
on both common and uncommon tumors. The unique infrastructure enables studies on genes of moderate and low penetrance, as well as more easily identified high penetrance genes.
NCI — Cancer Risk: Understanding the Puzzle http://understandingrisk.cancer.gov
This site offers a reliable source for individuals and healthcare providers who are seeking: risk information for six common cancer types (breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin); steps to reduce an individual's risk; tips for understanding cancer news stories; and tools an individual can use with his/her provider to manage his/her cancer risk.
NCI — CANCERLIT Topic Searches (Gastrointestinal Cancers)
Review CANCERLIT topic searches related to gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer. Select the desired timeframe (i.e., all, last 30 days, last 60 days, and last 90 days), and then view the collection of articles. Abstracts are provided online for some articles. Abstracts are provided online for some articles.
NCI — Colon and Rectal Cancer Home Page www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/colon-and-rectal
The NCI Colon and Rectal Cancer Home Page includes an overview of colon and rectal cancer, along with information about treatment; prevention, genetics and causes; screening and testing; clinical trials; cancer literature; research and related information; and statistics.
American Association for Cancer Education (AACE) www.aaceonline.com
The AACE fosters cancer education by individuals throughout the world who, either due to professional obligations or personal interest, are involved in cancer education. The association provides a forum for health-related professionals concerned with the study and improvement of cancer education at the undergraduate, graduate, continuing professional, and paraprofessional levels. Active members include physicians, dentists, nurses, health educators, social workers, occupational therapists, and other professionals interested in cancer education. Cancer education efforts are related to prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation.
American Cancer Society www.cancer.org
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering, and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 14 regional divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States.
Cancer in the Workplace: Prevention, Detection & Support www.businessgrouphealth.org/pdfs/cancerworkplace.pdf(available as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file)*
On June 6, 2001, the CDC and the Washington Business Group on Health (WBGH) conducted an educational session for representatives of major national and international companies regarding the benefits of cancer prevention for employers and employees. The first half of the session covered general cancer prevention topics, and the second half focused on the benefits of colorectal cancer screening.
Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation www.preventcancer.org/
The mission of the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation is cancer prevention and early detection through research, education, and community outreach to all populations, including children and the underserved. Their vision: "We will achieve significant reduction in cancer incidence and mortality by eradicating some cancers and transforming others into manageable chronic diseases."
CancerCare www.cancercare.org
CancerCare is a national non-profit organization that provides free professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. The site features resources for people with cancer and their caregivers (including counseling, educational programs, information and referrals, and financial needs resources), as well as cancer care professionals and members of the media. Users may choose between English- and Spanish-language site pages.
CancerNetwork.com www.cancernetwork.com/colorectal-cancer This site offers a summary of news/commentaries, reviews, handbooks, and other materials covering the continuum of colorectal cancer issues. Many pages of information are available and are organized under topics such as epidemiology and risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and psychosocial effects.
C-Change www.c-changetogether.org/
C-Change is comprised of the nation's key cancer leaders from government, business and nonprofit sectors. These cancer leaders share the vision of a future where cancer is prevented, detected early, and cured or managed successfully as a chronic illness. The mission of C-Change is to leverage the combined expertise and resources of its members to eliminate cancer as a (major) public health problem at the earliest possible time.
Colon Cancer Alliance www.ccalliance.org
The Colon Cancer Alliance brings the voice of survivors to battle colorectal cancer through patient support, education, research, and advocacy. The Patient Support section includes information about colorectal cancer and symptoms, as well as support programs. Go to the Resource Center to find reviews of books and videotapes, plus links to helpful organizations. You also can order Colorectal Cancer Awareness lapel pins by selecting that option.
Lance Armstrong Foundation www.livestrong.org
The LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare program offers counseling services, help with financial, employment or insurance issues, and information about treatment options and new treatments in development. LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare is for all cancer survivors, including those individuals diagnosed and their caregivers, family and friends.
Medscape Resource Center — Colorectal Cancer www.medscape.com/resource/colcancer
A collection of the latest medical news and information on colorectal cancer adenocarcinoma and rectal cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow up. This resource center includes news, conference summaries, articles, treatment updates, clinical management modules, MEDLINE abstracts, and more.
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship — Cancer Survival Toolbox www.canceradvocacy.org/toolbox
The Cancer Survival Toolbox is a free, self-learning audio program that has been developed by leading cancer organizations to help people develop important skills to better meet and understand the challenges of their illness. While created primarily for people who have been recently diagnosed with cancer, the Toolbox can help anyone who is facing hard decisions and changes in life due to cancer. Family members and caregivers can also use the Toolbox on behalf of a child or anyone else affected by cancer. Site visitors can read or listen to the Toolbox in English and Spanish, or download the files to read or listen later; Chinese transcripts are also available. The Toolbox includes 12 modules. Modules 1 through 6 cover six basic skills that can help people with cancer meet the challenges of their illness. Modules 7 through 12 build on the skills learned in the first six modules and relate them to specific aspects of cancer survivorship.
National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance www.eifoundation.org/national/nccra/splash
The National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, a national initiative of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, is dedicated to the eradication of colon cancer by harnessing the power of celebrity to promote education, fundraising, research, and early medical screening. The NCCRA was co-founded by "NBC Today" show co-anchor Katie Couric, nationally-known fund raiser Lilly Tartikoff, and the Entertainment Industry Foundation. At this site, you can read more about NCCRA’s goals of raising awareness of the seriousness of colorectal cancer and increasing the number of people being screened. You also can find out more about NCCRA’s efforts to raise funds for scientists doing cutting-edge colorectal cancer research throughout the United States. See the "You Can Help" section to find out about the silver Caring Star, donated by Bloomingdale’s to become the official national symbol of colorectal cancer.
NCCRA public education and service materials www.eifoundation.org/national/nccra/public_ed/psa.html
This link will take you directly to information regarding the NCCRA's public education and service campaign dedicated to promote colorectal cancer awareness and screening.
National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable www.nccrt.org
The National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable is a national coalition of public, private and voluntary organizations whose mission is to advance colorectal cancer control efforts by improving communication, coordination and collaboration among health agencies, medical-professional organizations, and the public. The ultimate goal of the roundtable is to increase the use of proven colorectal cancer screening tests among the entire population for whom screening is appropriate. Learn more about this organization and the available resources, including the new blue star emblem that was designed as a symbol of hope for colorectal cancer cure.
Prevent Cancer Foundation www.preventcancer.org
The mission of the Prevent Cancer Foundation is cancer prevention and early detection through research, education, and community outreach to all populations, including children and the underserved. Their vision: "We will achieve significant reduction in cancer incidence and mortality by eradicating some cancers and transforming others into manageable chronic diseases."
Prevent Cancer Foundation — About Colorectal Cancer http://preventcancer.org/colorectal3c.aspx?id=1036
Learn more about the National Colorectal Cancer Campaign and National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (NCCAM). Find ideas that individuals and organizations can use in promoting National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, as well as colorectal cancer-related educational materials about topics such as getting screened, talking with your health care provider, family medical history, and more. You can view and order educational materials and a logo slick on-line.
The Wellness Community www.thewellnesscommunity.org
The Wellness Community is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing free emotional support, education and hope for people with cancer and their loved ones. The cornerstone of The Wellness Community is the “Patient Active Concept,” which encompasses the belief that patients who actively participate with their physicians and medical team in their fight for recovery can improve the quality of their lives and may enhance the possibility of their recovery. The site's Virtual Wellness Community offers cancer information, free, professionally moderated support groups in real-time for people with cancer and their caregivers (including teens), and a host of other resources for consumers and professionals. It also hosts physician and nurse lectures, nutritional workshops, mind-body programs, and other services. Both the site's resources and the online support groups are available in English and in Spanish.
Resources to help you promote Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (observed in March) are available through the Michigan Cancer Consortium Monthly Theme Calendar.
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