| As the second leading cause of cancer death in Minnesota and the nation, about 75% of colorectal cancer cases occur among individuals with no known risk factor other than age. The colorectal cancer screening task force aims to raise awareness of colorectal cancer screening and improve screening rates in Minnesota by working with medical professionals, patients and the public on early detection efforts.
Collectively, the task force introduced legislation to establish a Minnesota program providing colorectal screening for Minnesotans who are under or uninsured. As a result, House bill HF 2477 was introduced May 11, 2008.
In addition, in coordination with the Prevent Cancer Foundation, the task force coordinated a Dialogue For Action on Colorectal Cancer among Minnesota American Indians Sept. 11-12, 2007, in Mille Lacs, which provided a venue for tribal leaders, public health officials, and community members to discuss the unequal burden of colorectal cancer among American Indians in Minnesota and how they can work collectively to combat colorectal cancer among this population. Several strategies were defined, which the planning committee is currently addressing.
Task force members from Mayo Clinic also recently concluded their “Colorectal Cancer-Free Zone” (CCFZ) pilot outreach program for City of Rochester employees. This research study investigated ways to use educational interventions to increase colorectal screening rates among a targeted population via American Cancer Society Navigators and Mayo Clinic nurse educators. The study aimed to determine adherence rates and barriers to colorectal cancer screening as well as measure the effects of workplace intervention with the goal of improving adherence to American Cancer Society recommendations for screening at age 50 and above. Results will soon be available. Click here to learn more.
Co-chairs: Barb Kunz: Humphrey Cancer Center,
barb.kunz@northmemorial.com
David Perdue, M.D., University of Minnesota, perdu001@umn.edu
Staff Support: David Simmons, Minnesota Department of Health, david.s.simmons@state.mn.us
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