The Challenge

In Kentucky, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death despite being highly preventable. Because it usually starts as slow growing precancerous polyps, screening makes prevention possible. When detected early, it can be successfully treated approximately 90% of the time. Despite the effectiveness of screening methods, current data shows that Kentucky has the worst colon cancer mortality rate in the entire nation.

Over 2,600 cases of colon cancer are diagnosed in Kentucky each year, with more than half of those cases diagnosed at a late (less treatable) stage.

Over the past several years, screening rates have improved. In 1997, Kentucky’s colorectal cancer screening rate was second worst in the nation. From 2004 to 2006, significant progress was made, and by 2008, Kentucky had moved up to 23rd in the state rankings. Continued improvement in screening rates will save lives, conserve resources, and directly impact mortality rates.

However, many challenges remain. Screening rates are dramatically lower among individuals with lower income, less education, and the uninsured. The most common reasons cited by Kentuckians for not getting screened is that their primary care provider did not recommend it and that they did not think screening was necessary if they were not experiencing symptoms. Increased education and outreach, coupled with screening programs for those without resources, can significantly improve screening rates and save lives.

Our Mission

The Colon Cancer Prevention Project is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to eliminating preventable colon cancer death and suffering by increasing screening rates through education, advocacy, and health systems improvement.

The Project is a collaborative organization, working to maximize efforts and available resources by leveraging partnerships with local and national organizations with compatible missions and a commitment to fighting cancer. Partners include the American Cancer Society, the Kentucky Cancer Program, the Kentucky Cancer Consortium, the Kentucky Cancer Registry, State and Local Public Health Departments, Gilda’s Club, a number of organizations and individuals in the medical community, and other interested stakeholders.

Programs are funded by individual gifts, corporate contributions, and grants.

Contact

Colon Cancer Prevention Project
P.O. Box 4039
Louisville, KY 40205
Phone: (502) 290-0288
Toll free: (800) 841-6399
Fax: (502) 721-0400