Cancer Prevention and Control

Off the Clock: As a survivor, Evan Cantwell volunteers for colorectal cancer awareness

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 13:58:08 +0000

Off the Clock: As a survivor, Evan Cantwell volunteers for colorectal cancer awareness Lauren Reuscher Thu, 03/28/2024 - 09:58

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Life is much more than time spent on the clock. In this series, we highlight the unique hobbies and volunteer activities of Mason's talented faculty and staff.

Evan Cantwell volunteers with Fight Colorectal Cancer. Photo by Brian Threlkeld

As a photographer in Creative Services at ��ӽ紫ý, Evan Cantwell spends his time at work capturing moments across the university. And he’s been doing it for quite a while.

“I started working at Mason in the previous century, when we still used chemistry to process our university image collection in black and white,” Cantwell said. The university has grown a lot since 1999, and Cantwell now collaborates with teams across the Office of University Branding, including writers, editors, social media specialists, videographers, and students to tell the Mason story.

Beyond the technology used in his work, something else was drastically different about Cantwell’s life when he first started working at Mason. He was undergoing chemotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat early onset colorectal cancer. He was in his early twenties.

Cantwell is now a 25-year survivor of the disease, having been cancer-free since he underwent treatment in 1999. Since then, he has found ways to connect with other survivors and help spread awareness of colorectal cancer, which is now affecting more and more young people in the United States.

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity?

It was challenging to connect with other survivors before the existence of social media, so I went to group therapy opportunities, but could never relate since I was so much younger than everyone. Over a decade later, when I was exploring therapy again and dealing with a lot of health issues, I ended up at a surf camp for young cancer survivors, which inspired me to explore patient advocacy.

I was selected to be one of the first Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) ambassadors in 2016. We participated in public service announcement videos shown in Times Square and the NASDAQ marquee screen, posed for the Fight CRC magazine, Beyond Blue, and attended an ambassador retreat. We raised awareness and amplified Fight CRC’s mission by lobbying Congress in March for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I took a break during COVID but was excited to join Fight CRC on Capitol Hill again this year.

Cantwell lends his photography skills to his volunteer work raising awareness for colorectal cancer. This March, volunteers with Fight Colorectal Cancer participated in a Call on Congress and installed flags and photo exhibits on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

What is involved in this volunteer work, and what is the time commitment?

Last fall, I volunteered to photograph the new Fight CRC ambassador class, which includes survivors, caregivers who have lost loved ones, and those undergoing treatment. We met in Missouri during ambassador training camp, and the weekend was full of emotion as they shared their stories.

No one knows why colorectal cancer is now the leading killer of young men ages 20–49, and the second deadliest among young women. This March, families, caregivers, survivors, doctors, and other advocates came together to plant 27,400 blue flags on the National Mall. In 2030, it’s estimated that 27,400 young Americans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Fight CRC partners with government agencies to identify and fund research and policies to bridge research and advocacy efforts, including early onset research.

Evan Cantwell (right) and fellow survivor Alecia Mandal (left) at the Fight CRC photo exhibit on the National Mall. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

Over the years, I have met the most amazing and kind people from around the country. The type of people who really restore your faith. I would be remiss not to mention that some of those people have died. I am so grateful that I had a chance to meet them and to work with them when they were advocating not just for themselves, but for all of us.

What lessons have you learned through this experience?

I’ve learned that I’m stronger than I think I am. Especially when I can figure out when to ask for help. Choosing not to do it alone will open up so many pathways to healing both body and mind.

Also, it is so important to connect with your family about health. Know your body. You will be the only one in this life to take care of it. Ensure you spend more time researching a second opinion than researching a hair stylist, and to take full responsibility for your health.

If you are sure there is something wrong with your body, and a health care professional doesn’t think so, you can say, “No, this is not acceptable,” and advocate for your health by getting a second opinion. It might save your life—it saved mine.

Volunteers and advocates for colorectal cancer awareness gather on Capitol Hill. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

What is one thing you want people to know about awareness and prevention of colorectal cancer?

Colonoscopies save lives. There are new tools for screening, and you should consult with a doctor regarding the best screening for you. Know your risk factors; learn about your family history, considering grandparents and first-degree relatives, or if you have Lynch syndrome. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) lowered the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer in adults with average risk from age 50 to age 45. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up; get the recommended preventive screening.

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

You can find me outdoors—hiking, exploring nature, and mountain biking. I also enjoy doing yoga and taking care of our rescue dog, Molly, with my wife. I’m hoping to explore the American west (when it’s not hot).

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Faculty and Staff News

Cancer Survivors

Cancer Screening

Cancer Prevention and Control

12 Cancer Prevention Tips for People of All Ages

John Brandon Cantrell — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:30:03 +0000

12 Cancer Prevention Tips for People of All Ages John Brandon C… Mon, 02/07/2022 - 10:30

Cancer kills one of every four people in the United States and is the second leading cause of death. Yet, many common forms of cancer are preventable. People at every stage of life can lower their risk of some common forms of cancer by making healthy choices, promoting protective behaviors, and reducing harmful exposures.

February is Cancer Prevention Month, and Dr. Michelle S. Williams, assistant professor in the Department of Global and Community Health at ��ӽ紫ý, says it is an ideal time for everyone – regardless of age - to assess their own habits to lower their risk of cancer.

Why is cancer awareness important at any age?

“Many people are not aware that health behaviors, such as what you eat and how much sleep you get, can affect their risk for certain types of cancer,” said Williams. “Individuals can reduce their risk for several types by making healthy lifestyle choices throughout their lifetime.”

Tips for people of all ages to increase cancer prevention and lower risk factors from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Complete the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series (ages 9-26)
Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Get enough physical activity
Maintain a healthy weight
Use sun protection when outdoors
Get enough sleep
Learn your family health history (and share with your doctor)
Avoid intentional tanning
Avoid tobacco products and secondhand smoke
Limit alcohol and sugar-sweetened drinks
Limit radiation dose during medical imaging procedures
Screen regularly for certain types of cancer (age dependent)

Though specific tips can vary by age, people of all ages can reduce their risk of certain cancers. For young adults and adolescents, Williams recommends the HPV vaccine to help prevent many types of cancer.

“Approximately 80% of adults will acquire an HPV infection in their lifetime. The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing HPV-related cancers. Therefore, females and males between the ages of 9 to 26 should get the vaccine,” said Williams. HPV is associated with several types of cancers in females and males including, cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx (back of the throat).

Williams is currently doing research in the US and in Ghana, West Africa is to increase women’s awareness about breast and cervical cancer and increase women’s participation in cancer screening and healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Michelle Williams, PhD, MSPH, MPH, MCHES, assistant professor in the Department of Global and Community Health at ��ӽ紫ý, has expertise in culturally appropriate health behavior interventions for cancer prevention and control to lead to a reduction in cancer disparities. She can be reached at mwill29@gmu.edu.

For more information, contact Michelle Thompson at 703-993-3485 or mthomp7@gmu.edu.

About ��ӽ紫ý

��ӽ紫ý is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 39,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility.

About the College of Health and Human Services

��ӽ紫ý's College of Health and Human Services prepares students to become leaders and shape the public's health through academic excellence, research of consequence, community outreach, and interprofessional clinical practice. ��ӽ紫ý is the fastest-growing Research I institution in the country. The College enrolls more than 1,900 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students in its nationally-recognized offerings, including 6 undergraduate degrees, 13 graduate degrees, and 6 certificate programs. The college is transitioning to a college of public health in the near future. For more information, visit https://chhs.gmu.edu/.

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Cancer Prevention and Control

The College Welcomes New Faculty Member Michelle Williams - Whose Mission Is to End Preventable Cancers Through Increased Awareness

mthomp7 — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 23:26:42 +0000

The College Welcomes New Faculty Member Michelle Williams - Whose Mission Is to End Preventable Cancers Through Increased Awareness mthomp7 Tue, 02/16/2021 - 18:26

In This Story

Michelle S. Williams, PhD, MSPH

February is Cancer Prevention Month and an opportunity to welcome Michelle Williams, assistant professor in the Department of Global and Community Health.

For Michelle Williams, PhD every month is Cancer Prevention Month. Williams joined the Mason faculty in August 2020, and brings deep experience in developing culturally appropriate interventions for cancer prevention, mixed-method research, and a rich history of service in the field of breast and cervical cancer prevention.

Williams’ research is focused on improving the cancer outcomes of African American women living in the Deep South. Williams’ Survivor Heart Study looks at factors that affect higher rates of heart disease in African American breast cancer survivors than in their white counterparts. One of the goals of the study is to increase awareness among African American breast cancer survivors that they have a higher likelihood of heart disease.

As part of the Survivor Heart Study, Williams is currently launching a case-control study of African American women with and without breast cancer to compare cardiovascular disease risk factors. Study participants will receive a kit in the mail to measure subjects’ physical fitness, blood pressure, weight, glucose, and cholesterol using the provided tablet and equipment. Due to COVID restrictions on human subject research, Williams had to be creative in formulating the study – however she is optimistic that the approach will actually increase participation in health research studies in the future. “People in rural populations are often excluded from clinical studies because they do not live near a large research university and they may not be able to travel. Now rural populations can more easily participate in this important research.”

Williams emphasizes that many cancers are preventable with proper screening and would like to see more interventions to decrease the disparities in late-stage cancers. “Some cancer deaths are preventable and unnecessary,” says Williams. “Access issues – such as cost and travel – along with awareness and engagement play a role in the disparities.”

She cites her talented team of Masters, PhD, and undergraduate students as immensely helpful in carrying out her research. Williams values the opportunity to “train the next generation” of researchers. Research assistants include: Amarachukwu Orji (PhD Student), Precious Ugwu (Masters student), Kolachi Oparanozie (undergraduate OSCAR student), Yasmin Fenaoui: (undergraduate OSCAR student), and Zhilan Mustafa (undergraduate OSCAR student).

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Off the Clock: As a survivor, Evan Cantwell volunteers for colorectal cancer awareness

Read more faculty and staff news

Nominate a colleague for Off the Clock

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity?

What is involved in this volunteer work, and what is the time commitment?

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

What lessons have you learned through this experience?

What is one thing you want people to know about awareness and prevention of colorectal cancer?

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

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12 Cancer Prevention Tips for People of All Ages

Why is cancer awareness important at any age?

About ���ӽ紫ý

About the College of Health and Human Services

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The College Welcomes New Faculty Member Michelle Williams - Whose Mission Is to End Preventable Cancers Through Increased Awareness

In This Story

February is Cancer Prevention Month and an opportunity to welcome Michelle Williams, assistant professor in the Department of Global and Community Health.

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About ��ӽ紫ý