Mayo Clinic's Colon Cancer-Free Zone (CCFZ) pilot project was developed to educate Rochester city employees about colon cancer screening.  The project goals are to raise screening awareness, motivate screening behavior change, identify barriers, and pilot test an innovative transportable model for a workplace intervention. 

The CCFZ project kicked off in February 2006 with a mailed survey and continued with worksite enrollment through May.  A total of 243 people are currently enrolled in the study.  Of this group, around 150 people are screen eligible (over age 50 or at increased risk) and received educational interventions.  The educational interventions have been carried out by phone, e-mail and mail depending on participant preference.  Each study participant received an informational packet at baseline.  Materials in this packet were referred to, as appropriate, during each educational intervention.  

The informational packet included educational materials using a variety of media, including:

• ACS pamphlet “If you’re 50 or older, you need to get tested for colon cancer.  No matter how good your excuse is”
• STOP Foundation DVD
• Mayoclinic.com pamphlet
• Cancer Center Together Newsletter article about CRC prevention
• Invitation to attend Mayo Clinic Cancer Education Center “Meet the Expert” sessions on CRC screening
• Information about how to make a CRC screening appointment.

The education team is utilizing these materials to support and enhance the participant’s discussion with their health care providers and overcome any identified barriers to screening.  Mayo Clinic Cancer Center nurse educators partnering with the American Cancer Society Navigators have completed active educational interventions with over 96 participants in December, 2006. 

A final survey is planned with active participants in February, 2007 with final results analyzed and communicated in April.  Identified barriers and motivators for CRC screening will be reported.  Final outcome measures will include CRC screening results that are self reported by the participants at the completion of the project.  An additional endpoint will be reporting on the number of participants who have made appointments to discuss screening options with their provider. 

For more information, contact:

Paul Limburg, M.D.
Phone: 507-266-4338
Email: limburg.paul@mayo.edu

Sheryl Ness, R.N., M.A.
Phone: 507-266-4855
Email: ness.sheryl@mayo.edu

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Rev 01-05-07