Bayer introduces national Big Colon Tour in 2018 to raise awareness about colorectal cancer

Bayer is pleased to announce another year of partnership with patient advocacy organizations Colorectal Cancer Alliance (the Alliance) and Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC). Bayer is touring with the Alliance on the national Big Colon Tour in 2018 to bring a giant inflatable exhibit to 50 events nationwide to raise awareness throughout the year. Additionally, Bayer matched $1 for every #StrongArmSelfie contributed to the Fight CRC initiative in March to fund colorectal cancer research in the U.S. for the fourth consecutive year.

CRC is currently the third most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in American men and women. In 2018, it's estimated that there will be 140,250 new cases of CRC.

"It's critical to raise awareness of risk factors of colorectal cancer as well as signs of disease progression. We're proud to support the efforts of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer on behalf of cancer survivors and their caregivers," said Joseph Germino, MD., Bayer's vice president of Medical Affairs, Oncology.

Across the Nation with the Giant Inflatable Colon

Bayer has embarked on a nationwide educational tour featuring a giant inflatable colon in conjunction with the Alliance. The tour provides an interactive experience depicting the different stages of colorectal cancer to educate patients about recommended screenings and raise awareness about how to prevent the disease.

"The Big Colon Tour was launched to take the focus off the discomfort many feel when talking to their doctors about their diagnosis," said Michael Sapienza, president of the Alliance. "The public's reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, and we're happy we could change the tone of an important conversation. With Bayer as a sponsor, we're excited to bring the colon to more 5K races, community fairs and medical centers to continue spreading awareness among local communities across the country."