LABCORP EXPANDS ACCESS TO COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING THROUGH PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CONFERENCE OF NATIONAL BLACK CHURCHES

BURLINGTON, N.C., PRNewswire -- Labcorp (NYSE: LH), a leading global life sciences company, is partnering with the Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC) to address health equity gaps in colorectal cancer screening. To raise awareness and provide expanded access to colorectal cancer screening tests, the Conference of National Black Churches will distribute over 3,000 colorectal screening test kits across several urban and rural locations including Atlanta, Dallas, Memphis, Washington D.C., New Haven, Los Angeles and Richmond.

Colorectal cancer, which is the third most deadly type of cancer in the U.S., has a disproportionate impact on the Black communi ty, according to the American Cancer Society. Among various racial and ethnic groups, the Black community experiences the highest incidence rates of colorectal cancer, experiencing a 20% higher risk of developing the disease and a 40% higher risk of dying from it.

“We are proud to partner with Labcorp to increase access to testing options in urban and rural communities,” said Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Chairman of CNBC. “Labcorp’s commitment to health equity aligns with our mission of helping the communities we serve to thrive. Access to regular screening for chronic diseases like colorectal cancer is essential for improving quality of life.”

In alignment with Labcorp’s continued commitment to educate and empower patients on the importance of early screenings, the company is sharing new survey data from over 2,000 participants, highlighting insights into consumer perceptions of colorectal cancer screenings. Some key trends revealed by the survey results include:

62% of respondents have not yet undergone colorectal cancer screening, despite most knowing they should be screened at 45.

Among those who have been screened, 56% would opt for an at-home test collection, if given a choice. Only 33% of respondents are aware of the widespread availability of at-home test collection kits.

“We know that an estimated 90% of colon cancer deaths are preventable if detected early, making it crucial for patients to discuss the risk with their providers and to get screened for colon cancer. But we’re seeing that more than half of patients aren’t doing that,

“said Dr. Brian Caveney, chief medical officer and president of Labcorp Diagnostics. “With Labcorp’s at-home collection kit offering, patients have an additional and convenient option to get screened– a game-changer in the detection of colon cancer.”

It is essential for patients to have open discussions with their healthcare providers about the risks, prevention strategies and appropriate screening tests for colorectal cancer. In addition to conversations with their doctor, patients can ask for the kit from their provider or purchase Labcorp’s Colorectal Cancer At-Home Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) through Labcorp OnDemand. FIT is a less invasive option for average risk individuals that is designed to screen for precancerous or early-stage colon cancer. This makes it easier for patients to complete a screening test from the comfort of their homes.

Labcorp’s Colorectal Cancer At-Home Tests can be ordered by a patient’s physician, and may be eligible for insurance reimbursement. Consumers can also purchase the Colorectal Cancer At-Home Test through Labcorp OnDemand here for $89, HSA and FSA accepted.

It is important to note that FIT is a screening tool and does not diagnose colorectal cancer. FIT screening is not appropriate for individuals who are already considered high risk for colon cancer. If you are high risk, talk to your healthcare professional about appropriate screening options. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends colorectal cancer screening for anyone age 45 or older.

Survey Methodology

The survey was an online, blinded, quantitative study comprised of 2,001 participants in the U.S. over a two-day period. Respondents are all U.S. residents ages 18-59, with no healthcare industry affiliation. The survey reflects the U.S. population with a mix of genders, geographies, general health status and family history of colorectal cancer.

Labcorp is a leading global life sciences company that provides vital information to help doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and patients make clear and confident decisions. Through our unparalleled diagnostics and drug development capabilities, we provide insights and accelerate innovations to improve health and improve lives. With more than 80,000 employees, we serve clients in more than 100 countries. Labcorp (NYSE: LH) reported revenue of $14.9 billion in FY2022. Learn more about us at www.Labcorp.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @Labcorp.

Reducing Memory Health Disparities with Awareness, Education and Resources

Chicago, Ill. -- The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host Release The Silence Conference on Saturday, April 22. Designed to educate our community, future caregivers, and the healthcare industry about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The conference is designed for those who are caregivers of a person with Alzheimer’s, individuals who want to learn more about the disease as well as professionals wanting to understand the health disparities which affect individuals in the African American community.

Alzheimer’s Association Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Carl V. Hill, Ph.D., MPH, will share his insight on the work he is leading to strengthen the Association’s outreach to all populations with emphasis on providing underserved and disproportionately affected communities with resources and support to address the Alzheimer’s crisis.

This event will be held from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and will feature a variety of speakers addressing the latest treatment options, myths and misconceptions about Alzheimer’s disease, knowing the signs and symptoms and much more.

“Our community is facing a major challenge: how to deal with the growing number of African-Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and how best to support their unpaid family caregivers. Alzheimer’s disease impacts all races and ethnicities, but African-Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to Caucasians,” said Delia Jervier, Executive Director Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter.

In partnership with: WVON – Chi Eta Phi, Alpha Eta Chapter – The Kroc Center – Scottish Rite Prince Hall Masons and MyOwnDoctor. The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to providing access to resources and information to communities who need it the most and this event is part of this effort.

More facts released by the Alzheimer’s Association 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report include:

● Black caregivers provide more hours of care per week compared to White caregivers.

● Black male caregivers are 3.3 times more likely to experience financial burdens when compared to Black female and White male and female dementia caregivers.

● Black, Hispanic and Asian American dementia caregivers indicate greater care demands, less outside help/formal service use and greater depression compared with White caregivers

● Black and Hispanic caregivers noted poorer health prior to becoming a caregiver for a spouse with dementia than those of similar race/background who did not become caregivers.

● Discrimination is also linked with depressive symptoms among Black American dementia caregivers.

Details:

The Kroc Community Center Chicago 1250 W. 119th Street Chicago, IL 60643

Saturday, April 22

10:00AM – 2:00PM

Registration: bit.ly/ReleaseTheSilence

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272-3900.

Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

1 bag Success Jasmine Rice

3 tablespoons light brown sugar

2 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon minced garlic

3 green onions, thinly sliced

1 cup bean sprouts

1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons dry roasted peanuts, chopped

4 lime wedges

Prepare rice according to package directions. Set aside.

In small bowl, combine brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.

In large wok or skillet over high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil. Quickly scramble egg. Remove from pan and reserve. Add remaining oil to wok over high heat. Add shrimp and garlic; stir-fry 5 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked. Add reserved sauce and rice; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add green onions and reserved egg; toss to combine.

Divide pad Thai between four bowls. Top each with bean sprouts, cilantro and peanuts. Serve with lime wedges.