Abstract 1292: ProTALKS: A community outreach project founded by a graduate of the CaRE2 Community Scientist Research Advocacy training program, Mrs. Lynn Jones-Turpin

Abstract

Abstract ProTALKS was created and led by a community member committed to reducing prostate cancer health disparities. ProTALKS stands for Prostate Cancer Outreach, Opinions, and Opportunities and is designed to increase awareness of prostate cancer prevention, research, and treatment as well as highlight the health disparities observed in Black communities. According to the Florida Department of Health, prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates among Black men living in Duval County are higher compared to men of other races and ethnicities. Therefore, there is a need for programs like ProTALKS that focus on early detection strategies and promoting community resources. In collaboration with the Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN), The American Legion Post 197, and Florida Blue, ProTALKS has increased access to services such as prostate cancer screening and evidence-based information. Community events implemented by ProTALKS bring together oncologists, researchers, key community leaders, health educators, and providers to educate and promote positive health behavior changes among high-risk communities. In addition to hosting health fairs, ProTalks has hosted grilling competitions and community awareness walks to further educate the community about prostate cancer prevention, screening, and research. ProTALKS also shares information through the local newspaper, The Jacksonville Free Press, The Lynn & Friends radio show, and social media platforms. Since its start in 2021, with support from the Florida-California Cancer Research, Education, and Engagement (CaRE2) Health Equity Center, ProTALKS has implemented more than 10 community events with over 1,000 community members from Jacksonville, Florida. ProTALKS, in collaboration with CaRE2, continues to disseminate information about cancer screening, the importance of clinical trial participation, and donating biospecimens for cancer research. Although ProTALKS has been successful in its mission, there have been challenges throughout its implementation. For example, one challenge has been increasing the number of community members attending events and using appropriate marketing techniques to promote ProTALKS’ activities. Future implications to avoid challenges include recruiting more volunteers, and partnering with other community organizations in Duval County. Citation Format: Lynn Jones-Turpin, Ileana Guzman, Brooke Hensel, Fern Webb. ProTALKS: A community outreach project founded by a graduate of the CaRE2 Community Scientist Research Advocacy training program, Mrs. Lynn Jones-Turpin [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1292.