April is Cancer Control Month. More than 1.6 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and about 12.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. About 500,000 die from the disease each year.
- Join the American Cancer Society in spreading the word about cancer awareness programs this month and throughout the year.
- Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and your risk of developing it increases as you age. Partner with a local dermatologist and present a class at a local senior center about the importance of skin exams as people age. Find some great free resources from the American Academy of Dermatology’s website and get information about seniors and skin cancer from NIH Senior Health.
- Honor the staff of your local cancer centers and local hospitals by distributing thank-you cards and goodie bags. Be sure to visit the same-day surgical centers often located at the back or side of hospitals — they can be easliy overlooked.
- Volunteer to teach a community-based education class on disease management at a local support group meeting. TAG Partners offers a great ready-made class on chronic disease management that a non-clinician can present. Call 866-232-6477 for information about ordering individual components of the kits.
- Partner with an area assisted living facility and have an on-site health fair. Distribute free flyers to educate about the signs of cancer and how your agency can help those living with the disease.
- Contact the local office of the American Cancer Society and offer to organize a bake sale, sidewalk sale or other charity event to benefit the organization. By planting the seed of sponsorship with community support groups, you will begin to see it blossom into community marketing and branding initiatives.
- Find a CDC-recognized cancer control program near you and learn about the efforts to control and prevent cancer in your community. Contact the program and volunteer to help support cancer survivors or further awareness efforts.