ASCRS calls for increase in screening during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 
 
BANNOCKBURN, Ill. – As part of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) has entered into a special partnership with San Diego-based Champions for Health to provide free colonoscopies and follow-up for 30 patients in underserved areas of San Diego.
 
The partnership was made possible through ASCRS’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee and Corporate Council.
 
"The ASCRS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee has made it a priority to affect real change in the disparity in access to colorectal cancer screening. By increasing access to screenings we start lifesaving conversations and provide education about family history, personal risk, and cancer prevention," said Dr. Erin King-Mullins, Chair of ASCRS’s DEI Committee.
 
Dr. Thomas Read, ASCRS President-Elect and Chair of the Industry Relations Committee, emphasized, “We appreciate the collaboration of ASCRS physician volunteers and our industry partners to make this project a success. We hope this model will spawn future efforts to better screen persons in underserved communities. Although colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer mortality, it is largely preventable with appropriate screening and treatment.”
 
 
 
About ASCRS
The 4,000+ member American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is the premier society for colon and rectal surgeons and other surgeons dedicated to advancing and promoting the science and practice of the treatment of patients with diseases and disorders affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. Its board-certified colon and rectal surgeons complete a residency in general surgery, plus an additional year in colon and rectal surgery, and pass an intensive examination conducted by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery.  For more information, visit www.fascrs.org.
 
About Champions for Health
Champions for Health was formed in 2004 by the San Diego County Medical Society to address the unmet healthcare needs of low-income and uninsured San Diego County residents. A community health nonprofit focusing on access to care for all and community wellness, this foundation was instrumental in amplifying physician engagement and volunteerism, positively impacting the lives of more than 100,000 San Diegans since its inception.
 
Champions for Health’s flagship program is Project Access San Diego, which provides access to uninsured individuals in need of specialty medical care in order to restore health. Champions for Health also facilitates a Community Wellness Program that continues the path to health with free vaccination programs, speakers for community groups, and support geared toward improving San Diego health for all. For more information visit https://championsforhealth.org/
 
 
Media Contact (ASCRS)                  Media Contact (Champions for Health)
Stuart Meyer                                       Cody Nelson
[email protected]                              [email protected]
847-607-6427                                      858-717-2100