#United States #Atlanta #Health Awareness #Colon Cancer #Georgia CORE

Georgia CORE Launches "Weird Looking Stools" Campaign

Georgia CORE, the Center for Oncology Research and Education in Georgia, has initiated a distinctive awareness campaign titled "Weird Looking Stools". This initiative is designed to provoke essential conversations surrounding colon cancer, a disease that is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in both the state of Georgia and the United States. The impetus behind the campaign is to inspire proactive health measures and increase participation in screenings, particularly among younger demographics who may not prioritize health checks.

Campaign Overview

The campaign runs from September 15 to November 30 and utilizes eye-catching, artist-designed stools placed in various bars across Georgia. Visual artist Julian Scalia has crafted these one-of-a-kind stools to symbolize actual colon cancer symptoms, effectively making a connection between art and health awareness. Among the symptoms depicted are:

• - Blood in stools
• - Abdominal pain, anemia, or unexplained weight loss
• - Narrow or pencil-thin stools

Each stool features a QR code linking to helpful resources, including screening guidelines and local contact information for screenings, encouraging patrons to educate themselves while enjoying their beverage of choice.

According to Lynn Durham, President and CEO of Georgia CORE, the goal is straightforward: "If you see a weird stool in your local bar, it's more than a conversation starter—it's a reminder to check for symptoms." Her statement underscores the campaign's objective of making colon cancer discussion more commonplace and accessible.

Raising Awareness Through Art

The stools will be positioned in prominent local establishments, including Park Bar, Black Coffee, Fado's Irish Pub (in both Buckhead and Midtown), and other notable venues in cities like Athens, Valdosta, Macon, and Gainesville. This strategic placement not only engages the community but also normalizes discussions about colon health in a social setting.

Georgia CORE, while not a direct screening provider, collaborates closely with five regional coalitions and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to ensure that screenings and follow-up care are available to everyone—insured or uninsured. A significant part of the funding for this initiative comes from a five-year grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), aimed at providing free screenings in underserved rural areas of Georgia, where healthcare access is often limited.

How To Get Involved

The campaign encourages community involvement in several ways:
1. Scan the QR code on campaign signage related to the Weird Looking Stools to access symptoms and screening information.
2. Consult your healthcare provider about screening if you are 45 years or older.
3. Stay vigilant for symptoms and seek medical advice if you notice anything unusual, especially if you're under 45 years old.

Atlanta-based advertising agency Chemistry and its production arm, Test Tube, partnered with Georgia CORE to develop this innovative campaign. From conceptualization to the execution of creative designs, the agency has played a crucial role in making the campaign resonate with diverse communities throughout Georgia. Their expertise has ensured that the critical message of the campaign is both engaging and culturally relevant.

Campaign Launch Event

The official launch event for the campaign will take place with support from the Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology (GASCO). This event is anticipated to gather community members and stakeholders, amplifying the campaign's reach and impact.

For further information and resources, individuals are encouraged to visit www.weirdlookingstools.com and learn about colon cancer symptoms, screening guidelines, and local resources available for support. Bars or coffee shops wishing to participate by hosting a stool can also reach out via the provided contact details. This campaign is a vital step towards enhancing cancer care and awareness in Georgia, championing the importance of early detection and preventive measures.

About Georgia CORE

Georgia CORE is dedicated to improving cancer care quality in the state through research, education, and advocacy. Their collaborative programs aim to advance cancer research, increase access to clinical trials, and provide essential resources and screenings, all intended to reduce the burden of cancer across Georgia. For more details, visit their website at www.georgiacancerinfo.org.