Cancer Partnership leads charge: Providence taps Snohomish leaders to promote colorectal cancer screenings for Black men
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and Providence Regional Medical Center Everett (PRMCE) and the Providence Regional Cancer Partnership are proactively raising awareness of the importance of colorectal cancer screenings among Black men in Snohomish County. The 'Black Men in Action Against Colorectal Cancer' campaign is a grassroots initiative bringing together community leaders to promote early detection and save lives.
A community-driven effort
The why
Colorectal cancer disproportionately affects African American men, who are about 20% more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than other groups. Each year, an estimated 2,300 African American adults will die from colorectal cancer. The passing of Chadwick Boseman from colorectal cancer at the age of 43 highlights the importance of early detection and screening.
Taking action
The campaign was inspired by Providence Swedish North Puget Sound Senior Communications Specialist, Ch’nell Amos, who saw an opportunity to directly address local health concerns after attending a Black History Month inaugural breakfast event presented by the Snohomish County Black Heritage Committee called ‘100 BLACK MEN IN ACTION!’ held at Washington State University – Everett. Amos reached out to community advocate JJ Frank, and together they gathered local leaders to promote colorectal cancer awareness.
The power of visual representation
Earlier this month, Black community leaders dressed in blue formal or semi-formal attire for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month gathered at the Providence Regional Cancer Partnership for a photoshoot in an unfinished warehouse. The images symbolize that while one may look good on the outside, their insides could be at risk, emphasizing the need for regular screenings.
Amos feels that the importance of visual representation in this campaign cannot be overstated. “It is my hope that by showcasing local Black leaders delivering this vital message to their community, the campaign not only raises awareness but also fosters a sense of trust and relatability,” says Amos, who adds that, “these leaders are respected figures within the community, and their involvement underscores the significance of the message. Seeing familiar faces advocating for health screenings can inspire others to take action and prioritize their health. It is a powerful reminder that colorectal cancer affects everyone, and early detection can save lives.”
Local leaders take action
The social media campaign features engaging videos and images of local leaders promoting the importance of colorectal cancer screenings. Participants include:
- Ryan Bailey – Professional Boxer and Security Supervisor
- Pastor A.C. Darby, Jr. – Bibleway Victory Community Church of God in Christ
- Kevin P. Henry – President, KPH Media
- Dan Hudson – Board Member, Breakfast Group Seattle, and retiree
- JJ Frank – Community Advocate
- Wil Johnson – Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Snohomish County Office of Social Justice
- Clarence Shaw – Snohomish County Black Heritage Committee
- Mike Simmons – Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Leader, King County Sheriff’s Office
- Dr. Paul A. Stoot, Sr. – Founder/CEO of Rise Up Academy, Pastor of Greater Trinity Church, and Lynnwood’s 2024 Man of the Year
- Jahleel Vester – Real Estate Agent
- Charles Wiley – Critical Facilities Engineer, BGIS
- Dr. Steve Woodard – Councilmember, Mountlake Terrace, and VP of Community Engagement, Volunteers of America Western Washington
Community leaders speak out
Dr. Paul A. Stoot, Sr., founder and CEO of Rise Up Academy, shared his thoughts on the campaign: “As the Founder and CEO of Rise Up Academy, my mission has always been to uplift and empower our community, particularly Black men who face systemic barriers to success, including access to quality healthcare. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable, yet deadliest, diseases affecting Black men in Snohomish County due to late detection and a lack of awareness.Too many of our brothers, fathers, and friends are lost to this disease simply because they weren’t informed or didn’t have access to early screenings. I chose to join this campaign because education and prevention save lives. We must break the silence around colorectal cancer, encourage early detection, and ensure that Black men understand their risks and take charge of their health. When we advocate for our health, we strengthen our families, our communities, and our future.”
Community advocate, JJ Frank, who organized the Snohomish County Black Men in Action group and co-led the colorectal cancer social media campaign, highlighted the significance of community engagement: “I would like to express my gratitude to Ch’nell Amos from Providence Swedish for her leadership and for inviting Black Men in Action to collaborate on this vital awareness initiative. Snohomish County Black Men in Action is trying to improve health and wellness with Black men, and this was a great opportunity to partner. Also, colorectal cancer is curable if we take action and do preventative measures like getting screened for colorectal cancer. This is the first campaign in my 30 years doing community advocacy where we focus on Black men and collaborate with Black men around health. Looking forward to an ongoing conversation with Providence Swedish to raise awareness on other diseases like prostate cancer and diabetes.”
Importance of early detection
While this campaign is geared towards Black men, who die from colorectal cancer more often than any other racial group, it is important to note that screenings are crucial for everyone. Early detection saves lives, regardless of race or ethnicity.
Comprehensive care
Providence Regional Cancer Partnership offers whole-person care and start-to-finish treatment in one place. This Everett-based facility provides advanced screening and treatment options, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Support groups are also available to help patients, and their families, navigate the challenges of colorectal cancer.
Providence Regional Cancer Partnership’s Director of Oncology, Dawn Gilbert, shared her thoughts on the collaboration: "We are honored to support the 'Black Men in Action Against Colorectal Cancer' campaign. This event is a vital step in raising awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screenings in our community. Early detection through regular screenings can save lives, and we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support to those affected by colorectal cancer. We want to directly address the health concerns of Snohomish County, and let our community know we are listening and ready to offer them the best care they can receive right here in Snohomish County. The Cancer Partnership offers advanced screening and treatment options, ensuring that our patients receive whole-person care from start to finish. Together, we can make a difference and empower our community to take charge of their health."
Join the movement
Providence Swedish, in collaboration with Black leaders from in and around Snohomish County, is promoting cancer screenings to combat colorectal cancer within the Black community. We urge Black men to participate in regular screenings and emphasize the importance of early detection in saving lives.
Follow us on our social media channels to see the campaign. Share those messages with your community and help us spread the word. #SeeItShareIt. You could save the life of someone you know.
For more information, visit Get screened for colon cancer | Providence and take the first step toward protecting your health.
Find care close to home
Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. If you need any help or advice on how to schedule your health checks, or how to improve lifestyle habits, reach out to your primary care doctor, you can search for one who’s right for you in our physician directory. Through Providence Express Care Virtual, you can also access a full range of health care services.
Information for patients and visitors
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This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.
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