Cancer PreventionWorks: March 2020

Issue: March 2020

SCREENING AND INSURANCE 101 Learn more about routine cancer screenings and the average associated cost.

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INSIDE

FOUNDATION NEWS

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Prevent Cancer Foundation highlights

ADVOCACY NEWS

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Turning the tide on the youth e-cigarette epidemic

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Parents vs. vaping: what you can do now

IN THE WORLD OF CANCER

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Fake cancer news set straight Ernie Hudson speaks out on the link between viruses and cancer

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND GENERAL WELLNESS

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What’s covered?

Screening and insurance 101

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Brooks Bell: A cold call saved my life.

A colonoscopy could save yours.

HEALTHY EATING AND FITNESS

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Healthy lo mein alternative

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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Events making an impact Join our fight against colorectal cancer

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CEO’S CORNER Dear Readers, Have you heard the news? The cancer death rate is dropping. The American Cancer Society’s latest “Cancer Facts & Figures” report revealed the largest recorded decrease of cancer deaths per year in history. Cancer prevention, along with advancements in treatments and cures, is making a difference—and by focusing on prevention and early detection, we can save even more lives.

In this edition, you’ll learn about some of the events and initiatives the Foundation has been working on to help communities prioritize prevention.

You’ll also read about the latest steps to address the youth vaping epidemic, the top cancer myths that are going viral and the personal story one woman hopes will kickstart your journey of prevention.

To our team, prevention and early detection go hand in hand. A big part of our mission is to increase access to lifesaving screenings and cancer prevention information, which is why our feature story is dedicated to outlining the screenings covered by insurance providers.

When coverage is clear, you can focus on getting the care you need.

As we move through a new decade, we hope you’ll be inspired to practice prevention, get recommended screenings and spread the word that together, we hold the power to Stop Cancer Before It Starts!®

Carolyn Aldigé Founder and CEO

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PREVENT CANCER FOUNDATION® HIGHLIGHTS NO-SHAVE NOVEMBER Once again, the Prevent Cancer Foundation was honored to be a beneficiary of the monthlong campaign No-Shave November. The charity benefit was created in 2009 after the Hill family lost their father, Matthew Hill, following a yearlong battle with colorectal cancer.

What started as a fundraiser among friends has now grown into an international movement with participants around the globe. In 2019, more than 14,000 people and 250 organizations came together to raise more than $1.3 million to fight cancer!

Proceeds from the campaign were divided among the Prevent Cancer Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Fight Colorectal Cancer.

PREVENT CANCER HEALTH FAIR AND 5K WALK/RUN On November 3, 2019, the Prevent Cancer Foundation hosted the 11th annual Prevent Cancer Health Fair and 5k Walk/Run at Washington Nationals Park, home of the 2019 World Series champion team. Nearly 1,000 people—and their dogs—from the Washington, D.C. area delighted in a day of healthy fun and a behind-thescenes look at the ballpark, including special access to the dugouts and batting cages. After the race, attendees enjoyed the Health Fair, which featured 30 local health and fitness partners offering free health and wellness screenings, healthy food demonstrations, exercise gurus and interactive exhibits on cancer prevention.

The event raised $246,774, surpassing the original goal of $215,000. We are grateful for the everyone’s incredible fundraising efforts!

2019 Action for Cancer Awareness Awards Luncheon 1st Row (L to R): Honorees Amanda Soto, Patrick Dempsey, LeeAnn Johnson 2nd Row (L to R): Presenters Diane Baker, Mary Herman and Debbie Meadows; Lisa McGovern, Executive Director, Congressional Families Program; Carolyn Aldigé, President and CEO, Prevent Cancer Foundation

AWESOME GAMES DONE QUICK In January, gamers around the world came together to participate in the 10th annual Awesome Games Done Quick, a weeklong, 24-hour livestreamed video game marathon organized by Games Done Quick (GDQ) to raise funds for the Prevent Cancer Foundation. Thousands of all-star gamers met in Orlando, Florida, to speedrun (play as fast as possible) their favorite games and hundreds of thousands tuned in online to watch the best of the best take on the most popular games. This year’s event broke new records for GDQ, raising a total of $3.1 million. These funds support national and global grants to prevent and screen for cancer.

KARMANOS HEROES OF CANCER AWARD On November 6, 2019, the Foundation was recognized with the 2019 Heroes of Cancer Community Service Award from the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute for helping to reach communities in Michigan with early detection and cancer care resources. The honor recognized the Foundation’s community grant program for one of 12 community grants awarded in 2018. This grant, awarded to the McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation, has provided early lung cancer screenings for more than 400 people and has helped launch cancer prevention education programs for more than 30,000 people across northern Michigan. The grant has served as a catalyst for the Karmanos Cancer Network to implement software that connects electronic medical records to the American College of Radiology (ACR) Lung Cancer Screening Registry. This connection allows screenings performed across the network to be reimbursed by health insurance.

CONGRESSIONAL FAMILIES AWARDS LUNCHEON On September 26, 2019, the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program® held its signature Action for Cancer Awareness Awards Luncheon, welcoming 56 Senators and Representatives and 45 congressional spouses, as well as supporters of the Congressional Families Program. The event celebrated LeeAnn Johnson (spouse of Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio), Amanda Soto (spouse of Rep. Darren Soto, D-Fla.) and Patrick Dempsey (actor, producer and founder of the Dempsey Center). The theme “Prevention at Every Age” highlighted each of their efforts to promote cancer prevention and early detection among Americans of all ages.

Participants left with a renewed commitment to raising awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.

PREVENTGEN Last August, the Foundation welcomed 13 young adults to PreventGEN, its first-ever committee to increase awareness and education of cancer prevention and early detection among younger generations. PreventGEN members are between the ages of 18 and 35 or work closely with people of that age range. Committee members will collaborate with Foundation staff on ideas for campaigns, programs, concepts and content. Their feedback is instrumental in helping the Foundation fulfill its mission of saving lives across all populations through cancer prevention and early detection.

Applications for new members will open in summer 2020.

Visit preventcancer.org/preventgen for more information.

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Photo by steheap - stock.adobe.com

ADVOCACY NEWS

ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AND THE YOUTH VAPING EPIDEMIC The country is currently facing a crisis: Use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among teens has skyrocketed. According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, in 2019, more than 5.3 million middle and high school students used e-cigarettes—an alarming increase of nearly 3.2 million students in two years.

BOX MOD VAPE

VAPE PENS

After pressure from health care organizations and patient advocacy groups, the Trump administration recently announced new restrictions on vaping products that will: • Ban the sale of pod-based flavored products (except menthol) and pull them from the market.

• Stop product marketing directed at children.

• Require manufacturers to submit product review applications to the FDA by May 21, 2020. (Products can still stay on the market for one year while under review.)

These actions alone will not stop the epidemic.

Flavored options will still be available in opentank (refillable) vaping systems, meaning they will still be widely available and accessible. Even with the recent increase of the smoking age to 21, these products will reach young people.

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E-cigarettes come in many shapes and sizes. Most have a battery, a heating element, and a place to hold a liquid. Some e-cigarettes are made to look like regular cigarettes, cigars or pipes.

PARENTS VS. VAPING: WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR There are several different types of vaping products on the market. Some are large and easy to spot, but others are sleek enough to fit in a shirt pocket, blend in with markers in a pencil case or be mistaken for a USB drive. Start by knowing what to look for.

JUUL

Some resemble pens, USB sticks and other everyday items. Larger devices such as tank systems, or “mods,” do not resemble other tobacco products.

HAVE A CONVERSATION Don’t put off tough conversations. Talk to your child about vaping before they’re exposed. Ask your child if their friends are vaping or if they’ve seen it in school. If you suspect your child is vaping, offer to help them quit. Your support drastically increases their chance of success.

Don’t know how to start? The Truth Initiative provides free support to both parents and youth. Text DITCHJUUL to 88709 to get started and indicate that you are a parent seeking help.

ADVOCATE TO END THE EPIDEMIC There are several efforts on Capitol Hill to end the vaping epidemic, and you can share your voice. The Reversing the Youth Tobacco Epidemic Act takes major steps to protect our youth by banning the sale of all flavored tobacco, halting the sale of tobacco online, restricting marketing of vaping products and requiring graphic warning labels on cigarette packs.

Go to preventcancer.org/advocacy to take action and ask your members of Congress to support this crucial bill today! preventcancer.org 5

IN THE WORLD OF CANCER

FAKE CANCER NEWS SET STRAIGHT

By Emily Robinson

You’ve seen it on social media or in the news—a person claiming to have a new mystery cure or miracle herbal medicine that can cure or prevent cancer. Here are some of the latest headlines you may have seen, set straight:

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DEODORANT DOES NOT CAUSE BREAST CANCER After spending weeks traveling down the crystal, mineral, spray and powder natural deodorant rabbit hole, I was surprised to learn that conventional, big-brand deodorants and antiperspirants actually aren’t as dangerous as social media led me to believe. Not only is there no scientific proof that these products cause breast cancer, but there also have been studies specifically proving there isn’t a link.

BLACK SALVE IS NOT A CANCER CURE Black salve is a black paste made from the plant Sanguinaria canadensis, a white, daisy-esque flower native to North America. The paste destroys skin tissue and leaves massive scabs behind, resulting in scarring and disfigurement. The salve was more commonly used in the 1900s to treat skin lesions but has recently regained a following on social media as an alternative cancer treatment and cure. Facebook groups were publicly called out last September for promoting this product, and despite some groups being shut down, several are still actively spreading the word. Groups share photos and stories of black salve use, many of which detail the painful, mutilating process. Modern science does not accept black salve as a safe or effective treatment for any cancer, including skin or breast, and it is a dangerous product to use.

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HAIR DYE AND CHEMICAL STRAIGHTENERS: BE CAUTIOUS, NOT AFRAID There have been rumors circulating for years that hair dye causes cancer, but a December 2019 study brought new attention to the rumor stating that hair dye and chemical hair straighteners can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Researchers examined data from 46,709 women ages 35–74 with a sister who had breast cancer. While they did report a small increased risk, several scientists, including the lead researchers from the cited study, have come forward urging the public not to be alarmed or even stop using these products. In a study like this, it is important to remember that correlation does not prove causation.

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THINK ABOUT THE LINK® BETWEEN HPV AND CANCER

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes almost all cervical cancers and is also linked to vulvar, vaginal, penile, anal and oropharyngeal (back of the throat) cancers. The HPV vaccine can protect children and adults from contracting the virus, stopping cancer before it starts.

Ernie Hudson, cancer survivor and father of four, is best known for his role in the 1984 cult classic, Ghostbusters. But this year, he’s joining the Foundation to help fight a different enemy. Hudson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1998 and rectal cancer in 2011. In both cases, screening caught his cancer early and made treatment more effective. Hudson has always been a champion of his own health and wellness and is using his voice to amplify cancer prevention.

Hudson is now cancer-free and wants to spread the word about the importance of getting the HPV vaccine to prevent cancer.

“It’s important to me that people know this issue is serious, but prevention is possible,” Hudson explains. “As a two-time cancer survivor, I’m proud to be working with the Prevent Cancer Foundation to bring awareness to the link

“It’s important to me that people know this issue is serious, but prevention is possible.”

– Ernie Hudson between viruses and cancer. Bringing awareness to the HPV vaccine and its ability to prevent at least six types of cancer is truly stopping cancer before it starts.”

There is now a vaccine available to protect people from HPV and the six types of cancer it causes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HPV vaccine for all girls and boys ages 11–12, the time when the vaccine is most effective; a catch-up option is now available for young adults. In addition to the vaccine, the Foundation recommends women begin regular cervical cancer screening at age 21 and follow up with a Pap test every three years. Women ages 30–65 should have a Pap test combined with an HPV test every five years, or a Pap test every three years. preventcancer.org 7

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND GENERAL WELLNESS

WHAT’S COVERED?

SCREENING AND INSURANCE 101

The following guide is based on the minimum required coverage by most health plans, including those offered through the state and federal insurance marketplaces in accordance with the Affordable Care Act. Short-term plans and those existing before March 2010 may not offer preventive care.

Medicaid plans vary from state to state.

If you have specific questions or need more information, contact your provider or your state’s insurance commissioner for assistance.

If you are uninsured and need to purchase or apply for insurance, visit healthcare.gov.

FREE No copayment or coinsurance charge, regardless of whether you have met your yearly deductible.

CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING FOR WOMEN 21 AND OLDER Pap tests can find cervical cancer early. Women are completely covered for the test every three years after turning 21. Alternative screening plans are also available every five years, consisting of an HPV DNA test followed by a Pap test.

MAMMOGRAMS FOR WOMEN 40 AND OLDER Mammograms can help detect breast cancer early. Depending on your insurance plan and risk level, they are either covered annually or biannually as a preventive measure.

BREAST CANCER GENETIC TESTING FOR WOMEN AT A HIGHER RISK Women of Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish heritage, with a family history of breast cancer or with a family member carrying mutations of either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene are eligible for genetic testing free of charge.

COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING FOR ADULTS AGES 50–75 Colorectal cancer is on the rise in younger adults. Typically, insurance will cover the cost of screening for individuals starting at age 50, but the American Cancer Society guidelines have recently been updated to recommend screening beginning at age 45. If you are experiencing symptoms or have a family history of colorectal cancer, you could be eligible for different tests and referrals to help cut costs.

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LUNG CANCER SCREENING FOR CURRENT OR PAST SMOKERS AGES 55–80 Lung cancer is the number-one cancer killer in the United States. Heavy current or former smokers (must have quit in the past 15 years) are eligible for low-dose CT screening that can find lung cancer in early stages, when treatment is more likely to be successful.

HEPATITIS B SCREENING FOR PEOPLE FROM REGIONS WITH HIGH HEPATITIS B RATES Hepatitis B can cause liver cancer. People from some parts of South America, Africa and Asia, where the virus is more common, are at an increased risk and are likely eligible for free testing and vaccination. All pregnant women are also eligible for hepatitis B screening at their first prenatal visits.

HEPATITIS C SCREENING FOR EVERYONE BORN BETWEEN 1945 AND 1965 (SOON FOR ALL ADULTS) At least 50% of U.S. liver cancer cases are related to hepatitis C. People at risk for this blood-borne virus and those currently between the ages of 55 and 75 are eligible for at least one free screening. With recent changes to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations, this screening may soon be free for all adults.

HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV) VACCINATION FOR CHILDREN AGE 18 AND YOUNGER Vaccination protects against HPV, which can cause at least six types of cancer. Vaccination is recommended for boys and girls age 11-12, but they can receive the vaccine as early as age 9. If you’ve missed the recommended age, ask your doctor about catch-up vaccines available for young adults.

LOW COST SKIN CANCER SCREENING Skin cancer is the most preventable cancer. The USPSTF has concluded there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against routine screening (total body examination by a doctor) to find skin cancers early. However, if you have a history of skin cancer or suspicious moles or other spots, make an appointment with a trusted dermatologist. Fees to see this specialist vary, but a referral from your primary care doctor may help lower the cost.

ORAL CANCER SCREENING Ask your dentist for an oral cancer screening at your regular checkup. This is typically already included in your annual visit, the cost of which will vary depending on your plan.

PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING FOR MEN AGE 50 AND OLDER If you’re a man age 50 or older, talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of screening. There are different options available, including a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Prostate cancer screening costs vary plan by plan but typically include a doctor-visit copay and laboratory copay. PSA tests typically cost around $40. preventcancer.org 9

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND GENERAL WELLNESS

A COLD CALL SAVED MY LIFE. A COLONOSCOPY COULD SAVE YOURS. I’m Brooks Bell. I’m 38, and I have stage 3 colon cancer.

For the last 10 years, I’ve chaperoned my husband, Jes, to an outpatient clinic for his colonoscopy. We know that colorectal cancer is common and because he has a family history of the disease, he’s at particularly high risk.

At some point, it occurred to me that maybe I should get a colonoscopy myself, just in case.

But the thought quickly passed, and I never followed through. I regret this now.

In November 2018, while traveling on business, I noticed blood in my stool.

I did what most people do when they’re experiencing a scary medical symptom: I Googled it. Almost all the websites I went to said that blood in the stool is something you shouldn’t ignore, so I didn’t, and I was on the phone with a physician a few hours later.

The physician I spoke with reassured me that it was most likely internal hemorrhoids— something most people suffer from at some point in their lives.

But my symptoms didn’t go away.

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Luckily, Jes and I didn’t have any travel plans for the holidays, so I went to see my primary care doctor in Raleigh, North Carolina, to get another opinion on my symptoms. She said the same thing: internal hemorrhoids. She suggested I wait it out and prescribed some cortisone cream.

After mulling it over and still not feeling quite right about the diagnosis, I decided to forgo the hemorrhoid cream and instead cold-called a gastroenterologist to request a colonoscopy.

I scheduled a new patient consultation for December 31, 2018—New Year’s Eve. They asked if I had been referred (I hadn’t) and warned that I could be responsible for a fee. I told them I was okay with that if necessary.

I saw a physician assistant, who was immediately concerned. She felt my symptoms had been going on for too long and agreed that they weren’t consistent with hemorrhoids. We scheduled a colonoscopy four days later.

“Aren’t I too young for colon cancer?” I remember asking.

IN THE WORLD OF CANCER “It happens,” she said.

It was the first time I felt it was actually possible that I had colon cancer.

On January 4, 2019, I woke up in the clinic after my colonoscopy. The doctor approached me, her expression troubled.

“I’m afraid I don’t have good news,” she said.

I can’t recall the exact words she used next, but she showed me and Jes a picture of a tumor in my colon that was almost certainly cancerous.

Jes and I went home that afternoon to process the most sobering news of my life and figure out what this meant for me, my business and my approach to life.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve learned a lot about colon cancer and cancer in general.

1. COLON CANCER IS COMMON, DEADLY AND UNDERFUNDED. Colon cancer has a 64% overall survival rate and is the third-most common cancer. It is the second-highest cause of cancer death, behind lung cancer. One in 20 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in their lifetime, yet it receives half the funding for research on more well-known cancers, such as breast cancer.

2. IT’S GROWING AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE. One in 10 colon cancer diagnoses are in people under the age of 50, and the cancer is usually far more advanced. And this rate is growing quickly: Since 1994, the number of people younger than 55 years old who get colon cancer has risen by 51%.

Additionally, it’s predicted that between now and 2030, the incidence of colon cancer in people ages 20–34 will rise by an unbelievable 90%.

3. COLON CANCER IS ONE OF THE FEW CANCERS THAT GIVES YOU A “HEADS-UP” BEFORE YOU GET IT. Colon cancer starts as a polyp in your colon and lurks there for years before it develops into a cancerous tumor. Some 15% to 25% of adults will have at least one polyp by the time they reach 50. Colon cancer always originates with a polyp and they are easy to snip out once discovered. While there are many ways to screen

COLORECTAL CANCER: UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS Knowing the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer can help you recognize any changes in your body that could be cancer.

Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms (especially at first), but symptoms may include: • Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement) • Stomach pain, aches or cramps that don’t go away • A change in bowel habits (like diarrhea or constipation) lasting more than a few days • Unexplained weight loss If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

You know your body best—so don’t be afraid to advocate for your health!

Learn more about risks and screening options at tooyoungforthis.org preventcancer.org 11

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND GENERAL WELLNESS

for colon cancer (stool testing, etc.), the only way to determine if you have polyps is a colonoscopy.

4. COLONOSCOPIES ARE SIMPLE, PAINLESS AND EASY. But they are expensive and may not be routinely covered by insurance if you’re under age 50. Colonoscopies are much less of a big deal than many people think. But there is a problem: insurance. When I was diagnosed, my first instinct was to tell everyone to get a colonoscopy ASAP—until I found out that insurance won’t cover it outside of recommended screening ages unless you’re experiencing serious symptoms or have a family history of disease. I was extremely frustrated (and still am) because the only way I could have prevented my own colon cancer would not have been covered by my insurance, even if I had been more proactive.

5. WE NEED TO ADVOCATE FOR OURSELVES AND NEVER WASTE AN EXCUSE TO GET A COLONOSCOPY. I talked to two general practitioners, both of whom misdiagnosed me and said to “wait and see,” despite having clear symptoms for colon cancer. My experience is common: According to the Colon Cancer Alliance, 82% of young colon cancer survivors were initially misdiagnosed; 67% saw at least two doctors before diagnosis; and as a result, 73% were diagnosed at a later stage. Of the young cancer survivors surveyed, a shocking 62% did not have a family history of colon cancer.

While organizations like the Prevent Cancer Foundation fight to ensure coverage for cancer screenings, there is still much work left to be done. There are still times when it is reasonable for insurance to cover colonoscopies in younger adults, including when there are symptoms or a family history of disease.

To be proactive and make the case for your eligibility, you can do two things: • Find out if you have a family history of colon cancer 12 Cancer PreventionWorks: March 2020

• Ask for (even demand) a colonoscopy if or when you have anemia, any abdominal pain or changes in your bowel habits There is a common misconception that colonoscopies are “a hassle.” In the end, there was very little hassle. I worked from home before the procedure and then my husband drove me to an outpatient clinic in an office park a few miles away. We were in and out in a couple of hours.

They hooked me up to an IV and gave me some anesthesia. I was telling them a joke as I went under, and I finished the joke when I woke up.

There was no pain or discomfort whatsoever. We left the clinic less than an hour after I woke up.

It can be awkward and uncomfortable to acknowledge digestive issues, and as a result, there is very little discussion around colon cancer and colonoscopies—until it’s too late.

Colon cancer is preventable. But preventing it means we have to start to talk about it more.

If I wasn’t already aware of colonoscopies from my husband’s experience, I wouldn’t have known to talk to a gastroenterologist or had the courage to get one done so quickly. I would have continued to “wait and see,” and my cancer would have spread. It never would have occurred to me that colon cancer was a risk at all.

Colon cancer is preventable. But preventing it means we have to start to talk about it more.

Even though we can’t make it polite to talk about digestive issues at the dinner table, nor can we change the insurance marketplace overnight, we can start to make a difference by talking about polyps, family history and the awesomeness of colonoscopies.

HEALTHY EATING AND FITNESS

HEALTHY LO MEIN ALTERNATIVE

By Alicia Storkamp

I’m a huge fan of Chinese take-out, but I’m not a huge fan of all the processed ingredients that typically go into it—so learning to make my own versions of fried rice and lo mein at home was a must! This is my take on a healthy zucchini lo mein.

INGREDIENTS 2 tsp oil (any type) ½ cup chopped onion 1 tsp (or less) minced garlic ¼ cup chopped hot pepper (jalapeño, habanero or your personal favorite) 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) ½ cup chopped carrots ½ cup cauliflower florets ½ medium zucchini, julienned 1 tbsp soy or tamari sauce 1 ½ cups cooked rice

DIRECTIONS Heat oil of your choice in a skillet over mediumhigh heat. Cook onion, garlic, hot pepper and sesame seeds until they start to brown. Add carrots and cauliflower and cook for another 2–5 minutes. Add zucchini and soy sauce, and let it stew until the vegetables start to take on some color from the sauce. Stir every few minutes.

Soak up excess liquid at the bottom of the pan by stirring in cooked rice. Plate and serve.

MEET ALICIA: SINGER, FIVE-TIME GDQ PARTICIPANT AND HEALTH ADVOCATE When I hit my 30s, my body already felt like it was falling apart. It wasn’t until I found myself sitting in my doctor’s office being told I was prediabetic that the light switch finally flicked on.

Within six months, I went from clinically obese to a healthy weight for the first time since I was 9 years old. From my highest weight in 2007 to my lowest, I lost about 115 pounds. Most important, my doctor reported that my risk for Type 2 diabetes had dropped to less than 1%.

From that point on, I couldn’t keep my mouth shut about what I’d learned. I told everyone who would listen that the “miracle” was in the food. Instead of gaming with a fast-food haul from Taco Bell, I made my own taco salads at home. Instead of going out to eat four to six times a week, I learned how to cook my favorite “junk” foods in healthier ways.

Now I’m heading the Foundation’s PreventGEN (see page 3) subcommittee for gaming and esports and finding new ways to bring this mission to gamers.

Read Alicia’s full story at preventcancer.org/blog

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE

EVENTS MAKING AN IMPACT Hosting an event or fundraiser is a great way to mobilize your friends and family to give back. Go to youcanpreventcancer.org to discover ways you can turn your passion into support for cancer prevention and research.

PENNY WARS FOR PREVENTION Last October, the Student Government Association at the Independence School in Newark, Delaware, raised $1,750 for cancer prevention by selling bracelets and collecting pocket change.

CHAMPION AWARENESS 2019 The Champion Awareness ride entered its fourth year, with Matthew Milner and Parker Normann biking 340 miles in four days for cancer prevention.

They raised $2,750, surpassing their $2,000 goal.

CHEERS FOR CHARITY In September 2019, Gordon Biersch in McLean, Virginia, released their Oktoberfest draft with a twist: A portion of all sales from the release event were donated to the Foundation.

SHARE YOUR STORY Stories shared on our blog can reach up to 15,000 people.

To get involved or share your story, email pcf@preventcancer.org

I was set to run a marathon, then my doct or foun d highl y preca ncerous cells

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Ho w sim ple die ta ry ch an ge s may he lp im prove ou r odds ag ain st ca nc er

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

WHEN IT COMES TO COLORECTAL CANCER, PREVENTION AND EARLY DETECTION MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Our donors fund cutting-edge research to find new ways to prevent or detect cancer earlier.

Supporters like you help us spread the word with our inflatable Super Colon® that travels the country teaching people of all ages about colon health.

In this issue, Brooks Bell shared her colorectal cancer experience so that no one else will have to go through what she did.

With your help, we can make that a reality.

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Find this issue and more at preventcancer.org/newsletter

TO SUBSCRIBE, CONTACT: Prevent Cancer Foundation® 1600 Duke Street, Suite 500, Alexandria, VA 22314 Toll-Free: (800) 227-2732 Main: (703) 836-4412 Email: pcf@preventcancer.org Visit: preventcancer.org Cancer PreventionWorks is published by the Prevent Cancer Foundation®, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention and early detection of cancer.

All contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. The Prevent Cancer Foundation® is a member of the Combined Federal Campaign (#11074).

1600 Duke Street, Suite 500 Alexandria, VA 22314

UPCOMING EVENTS

IN THIS ISSUE

Summer • Prevent Cancer Dialogue: Prevention, Screening, Action!

Fall • Prevent Cancer Advocacy Workshop

Parents VS. Vaping: What you can do now

Screening and insurance 101

A cold call saved my life.

A colonoscopy could save yours.

Healthy lo mein alternative

• Annual Spring Gala • Prevent Cancer Health Fair and 5k Walk/Run For more information visit preventcancer.org/events