2nd Annual Western North Carolina Colorectal Cancer Health Equity Summit

Description

The 2nd Annual Western North Carolina Colorectal Cancer Health Equity Summit aims to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) health equity in a sustainable and collaborative approach across the region. Research has shown a strong correlation between sustained and consistent screening efforts with the decrease in CRC incidence and mortality. Screening allows for the early detection of CRC when the cancer is easier to treat. However, many WNC residents at the recommended ages for CRC screening remain unscreened, and the pandemic continues to aggravate this situation. Meanwhile, CRC incidence and mortality disparities exist across race and socioeconomic statuses in the WNC region and are expected to grow amid the pandemic's disruptions to routine cancer screening and existing barriers to care. Elevating the realities faced by Western North Carolina patients, clinicians, researchers, and communities is paramount to achieving equity in the region. Capitalizing on the American Cancer Society's (ACS's) strength as a highly trusted source of cancer information and a proven convener in the mission to end cancer, ACS is collaborating with health systems (hospitals, safety net clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers) and others to increase CRC screening rates, improve CRC early detection and access to treatment, and in turn, improve health equity and save lives from CRC in the WNC region. A key component of this effort will be to convene stakeholders (health systems, community organizations, patients, survivors and caregivers) for a summit to discuss current CRC landscape through an equity lens.

Disclaimer: by registering for this event, you acknowledge your registration information may be shared with the American Cancer Society, who is a joint provider of this event.

Agenda

5:00 - 6:00	Registration and Dinner - Blue Ridge
6:00 - 6:30	Welcome and Keynote - Brooks Bell
6:30 - 6:40	American Cancer Society Updates
6:40 - 7:25	Challenges and Disparities of Colorectal Cancer with Dr. Michael Newcomer
7:25 - 7:30	Break
7:30 - 7:55	The Wave of Young Patients Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer with Dr. Benjamin Deschner
7:55 - 8:30	The Next Chapter: Early Screening Saves Lives with Joe Greene

Jointly Provided by

Target Audience

MD, DO, PA, NP, Nurses, Navigators, Community Organizations Advocating and Supporting CRC Patients

Objectives

• Identify and analyze the current disparities in colorectal cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes among diverse populations in Western North Carolina
• Develop strategies for healthcare providers to implement culturally competent care and effective communication techniques that improve colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment in underserved communities
• Explore and evaluate evidence-based community outreach and education programs that aim to increase colorectal cancer screening rates and reduce barriers to care in vulnerable populations, with an emphasis on collaborative efforts between healthcare systems, community organizations, and public health agencies

Faculty

• Brooks Bell
• Benjamin W. Deschner, MD
• Joe Greene
• MICHAEL NEWCOMER, MD