Michigan
Using a Statewide Network to Raise Public Awareness of Colorectal Cancer
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Public Health Problem
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and in Michigan, with 4,920 new cases and 1,900 deaths expected throughout the state in 2004. Survival from colorectal cancer is directly related to the stage at which it is detected. Screening is an effective means of detecting colorectal cancer by identifying the disease at an early, curable stage. Screening can also find precancerous growths that can be removed, thus preventing colorectal cancer from developing. Despite these facts, screening rates remain fairly low and below the targeted goal of 50% set through Michigan�s comprehensive cancer control planning effort.
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Program Example
The Colorectal Cancer Awareness Network (CRAN) was established in 2002 as a focused strategy to address Michigan�s colorectal cancer control goal, with a mission to raise awareness about the disease and the need for screening. The network is composed of a variety of health care-related organizations from across the state that conduct public education activities, including many already involved in Michigan�s comprehensive cancer control program. CRAN helps participants develop community-based colorectal cancer education and awareness programs by supplying resource materials, presenting ideas for public education activities, and providing networking opportunities with organizations dedicated to raising public awareness about the benefits of colorectal cancer screening.
As a direct result of the creation of CRAN, participant organizations are better equipped to initiate educational activities within their communities. The Foote Hospital Parish Nurse Partnership is one example. Using ideas and materials gained from CRAN, awareness and screening events reached more than 23 churches and involved approximately 500 participants during 2003.
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Implication and Impact
During its first year, CRAN grew to more than 230 participants representing 145 unique organizations from every region of the state. New efforts are under way in 2004 to more fully embed CRAN into Michigan�s communities through the development of regional CRANs in partnership with the American Cancer Society. This will serve to maximize reach throughout Michigan with the important message of the need for colorectal cancer screening, and further integrate comprehensive cancer control on the community level.
The impact of CRAN is not yet known. Evaluation is planned through regular surveys, such as the Special Cancer Behavioral Risk Factor Survey, where questions about colorectal cancer awareness and screening will be asked of the public. By raising awareness, CRAN participants work toward achieving Michigan�s colorectal cancer control priority of increasing screening rates in order to detect colorectal cancer early and ultimately to reduce deaths from this disease.
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Contact Information
Cancer Prevention*
Cancer Prevention and Control Section
Michigan Department of Community Health
Washington Square Building, 5th Floor
109 Michigan Avenue
PO Box 30195
Lansing,
MI 48909
(517) 335-9620
Fax: (517) 335-9397
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*Links to non-federal organizations found at this site are provided solely as a
service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their
programs by CDC or the federal government, and none should be inferred. The CDC is not responsible
for the content of the individual organization's Web pages found at these links.
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