Community Conversation
Let’s Talk Colorectal Cancer: Risks, Screening, and What’s Changing
Join us for an engaging and interactive community conversation focused on colorectal cancer and its growing impact on individuals and families—particularly the concerning rise in diagnoses among younger adults. Topics will include modifiable and non‑modifiable risk factors, the range of colorectal cancer screening options, and why early detection matters. We will also explore persistent disparities in colorectal cancer outcomes and how access, awareness, and structural inequities affect prevention and screening—especially in under‑resourced communities.
Learning Objectives:
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- Describe current trends in colorectal cancer, including the rise in cases among younger adults, and identify both modifiable (e.g., lifestyle-related) and non‑modifiable risk factors.
- Recognize and compare colorectal cancer screening options, including who should be screened, when screening should start, and how different methods support early detection.
- Understand disparities in colorectal cancer prevention and outcomes, and discuss ways community education, advocacy, and systems-level changes can help advance health equity.
About The Speaker –
Dr. Carmen Stokes
Dr. Stokes has been a Registered Nurse for almost 32 years, and a certified Family Nurse Practitioner for 26 years. Dr. Stokes currently works as a Navigator for the Gavini Center for Cancer Prevention, with an emphasis on cancer prevention and the prevention of cancer recurrence. Her personal experience with cancer: close family & friends, developed her awareness of both the fear that can arise with a cancer diagnosis, but also the POWER that comes from developing community and understanding that can be achieved through navigation and support.