The University of Kentucky Division of Gastroenterology, in collaboration with the UK Endoscopy Council, recently advanced its community outreach efforts through the GI Community Engagement Committee. The committee, led by Dr. Kshitij Thakur, includes fellows and residents and works closely with the Endoscopy Council to expand community focused education and engagement. The initiative is supported by Internal Medicine Chair, Dr. Darwin Conwell, and GI Division Chief, Dr. Lanla Conteh.
As part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the committee, together with the Endoscopy Council, participated in Walk with the Doc on March 28, 2026, at the University of Kentucky Arboretum. The event was hosted by Dr. Connie Jennings, UK Integrative Medicine.
The event began at 10 a.m. with strong participation from faculty, trainees, and Endoscopy Council members. Council leadership, including Marcie Lowery, RN, and Kristi Harris, RN, played a central role in organizing and supporting the event. Participants walked together through the Arboretum, creating an open environment to discuss colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and early detection.
A key highlight of the event was an interactive inflatable colon exhibit, which allowed participants to visualize the progression from normal tissue to polyps and colorectal cancer. This hands-on component made complex medical concepts more accessible and encouraged meaningful conversations with the community.
Throughout the event, clinicians emphasized that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. Current guidelines recommend screening for average-risk individuals beginning at age 45. Attendees were introduced to multiple screening options, including colonoscopy and stool-based testing, with guidance tailored to individual preferences.
The event was well received, with strong community engagement and thoughtful discussion. It reflects a growing commitment by the GI Division and Endoscopy Council to bring preventive care education beyond the clinical setting and into the community.
The GI Community Engagement Committee and Endoscopy Council plan to continue building on this momentum through future outreach initiatives focused on awareness, education, and early detection.
