Baltimore—(April 25, 2016)—The MedStar Health Cancer Network has joined forces with the American Cancer Society (ACS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable by pledging to support the “80% by 2018” initiative – a nationwide goal to increase colorectal cancer screening rates to 80% in the next two years.

The Cancer Network, comprised of MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, MedStar Good Samaritan, MedStar Harbor and MedStar Union Memorial Hospitals, joins the shared commitment to raise the bar on the percentage of adults aged 50 and older who get regular colorectal screenings from 65% in 2010 to 80% in 2018. By achieving an 80% screening rate for colorectal cancer by 2018, research shows that 277,000 cases of colorectal cancer and 203,000 colorectal cancer deaths would be prevented by 2030.

“In our ongoing commitment to keep our community healthy, the Cancer Network is proud to take this pledge and unite with organizations nationwide in the fight to prevent and eliminate colorectal cancer,” said Albert J. Aboulafia, MD, Medical Director, MedStar Health Cancer Network. “Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable, but you have to catch it early. By raising awareness of the importance of early detection and working together to increase screening rates, the “80% by 2018” initiative will help save thousands of lives.”  

Colorectal cancer is the nation’s second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. by men and women combined; however it is one of only few cancers that can be prevented. Both highly detectable and treatable, colorectal cancer can be prevented through screening. Through screening, doctors are able to find and remove hidden growths (called “polyps”) in the colon, before they become cancerous.

The goal is shared by health care providers, health systems, communities, businesses, community health centers, government, non-profit organizations and patient advocacy groups, among others, who are committed to getting more people screened for colorectal cancer to prevent more cancers and save lives.

Click here for more information about the “80% by 2018” initiative. To learn more about colorectal cancer care at MedStar Health, click here. 

About the MedStar Health Cancer Network

Comprised of four MedStar Health hospitals, the MedStar Health Cancer Network represents a true collaboration in cancer care. Our dedicated team of surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, oncology nurses and cancer support staff collaborate to effectively and efficiently meet the needs of cancer patients and their families throughout the greater Baltimore region. Our goal is to provide evidenced based quality, care with a focus on service and easy access.

Contact Information

Megan Lutz      
410-554-2781
[email protected]