Background

The Consortium was formed in 2015, with the first annual conference hosted in Atlanta, GA in 2016, followed by subsequent conferences hosted in Puerto Rico, Louisiana, Arkansas, Kentucky, Texas, and Virginia. We discuss challenges that continue to confound colorectal cancer screening rates in the Southeast United States and Puerto Rico. During the conference, Consortium members share knowledge, tools, resources, and strategic approaches that can significantly impact colorectal cancer screening in our unique area. In addition to panel discussions, conference organizers ensure focused interactions among attendees and exhibitors take place, which has contributed to information sharing, as well as additional implementation of interventions within states and across the region.

All who have attended past conferences will agree that the collective energy and commitment of Consortium members, as they learn from each other and share respective successes and challenges within their states, is apparent and inspiring. Several questions of central importance will underlie the conference agenda this year, including:

• Where are we concerning research and technologies aimed at CRC screening, prevention, and clinical care, and what is on the horizon?

• What are various Roundtables within Southeastern states doing?

• How can we promote health equity among disadvantaged communities suffering from high CRC incidences and mortalities?

• What are the most effective strategies for dealing with the vulnerability of young people to CRC?

• How are the policies and practices of providers, including hospitals, clinics, physician practices, and health insurers, making changes to their workflow due to the change in screening age to 45 years old?

If you or your organization would like to become involved with the Consortium, contact us at secrcconsortium@gmail.com.