The West Virginia Colorectal Cancer Roundtable convened its second annual meeting at the Erickson Alumni Center, bringing together 85 stakeholders from across the state to advance efforts in colorectal cancer early detection and care.
Attendees represented a wide range of sectors, including primary care, gastroenterology, oncology, population health, public health, academic institutions, and industry. The meeting focused on sharing best practices for increasing colorectal cancer screening rates, ensuring timely colonoscopy follow-ups, improving communication of results to primary care providers, and addressing the alarming rise in early-age onset colorectal cancer.
A highlight of the day was a keynote presentation by Dr. Caitlin Murphy, Associate Professor of the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. Her talk, "Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer In West Virginia," examined the growing incidence of colorectal cancer in individuals under 50 and explored potential contributing factors.
Participants also engaged in breakout sessions organized around three strategic workgroups, each tasked with developing actionable plans to overcome key barriers to colorectal cancer screening and care in West Virginia. The workgroups focused on:
- Addressing Health Equity and Social Drivers of Health
- Enhancing Partnerships Between Primary care and Colonoscopy Providers
- Improving Patient Education and Health Communications
Community members and professionals interested in joining one of the these workgroups are encouraged to contact Kelcie Sturgeon at ksturgeo@hsc.wvu.edu.
The Roundtable continues to serve as a vital platform for collaboration, innovation, and progress in the fight against colorectal cancer across the Mountain State.