ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk Raises Awareness and Funds to Support Prostate Cancer Patients in Capital Area

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Stephanie S. Johnson
ZERO Prostate Cancer
stephjohnson@zerocancer.org | media@zerocancer.org
(202) 998-2507

Washington, DC, May 22, 2024 — ZERO Prostate Cancer, the nation’s leading prostate cancer organization, will hold the annual Capital Area ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at the Pentagon Row Courtyard. This signature community event brings together passionate supporters to celebrate prostate cancer survivors and fund critical support services for patients and their families. 

Washington, D.C., has the highest incidence rate of prostate cancer in the country. Three hundred ninety new cases of prostate cancer are expected to be diagnosed in our nation’s capital this year, ranking it eighth nationally for incidence and first for prostate cancer deaths, with 70 deaths expected. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced efforts in prevention, early detection, and access to quality treatment.

"Participating in the ZERO Capital Area Run/Walk holds profound significance for me, as both a prostate cancer survivor and an advocate for early detection,” said prostate cancer survivor Eric Morrow.

“My father and I both battled prostate cancer and as a Black man, I know firsthand that Black men are disproportionately affected by this disease, facing higher diagnosis and mortality rates. Being among fellow patients, survivors, and their families renews my appreciation for the support I was fortunate enough to have during my journey.” 

In 2024, nearly 300,000 men will be told they have prostate cancer, and more than 35,000 men will die from the disease. Black men are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed and die from prostate cancer than white men. Prostate cancer is also the most common cancer diagnosis in Veterans, with 1-in-5 Veterans being diagnosed in their lifetime.

Since its inception 17 years ago, the ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk series has united 170,000 participants, collectively raising more than $32,000,000 toward education and life-saving support services. Additionally, the series has fueled $4,500,000 in community grants, empowering local organizations to enhance testing, education, and support initiatives.

"This event represents the true power of community,” said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer.

"As a daughter of a prostate cancer patient and a cancer survivor myself, I know how important it is to honor, connect, and support the millions of men and families who have been impacted by this disease." 

About ZERO Prostate Cancer

ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO) is on a mission to improve and save lives from prostate cancer through advocacy, education, awareness, and support. Formerly known as the National Prostate Cancer Coalition, ZERO was founded in 1996 to stand up for people impacted by prostate cancer. Today, ZERO serves as the nation's leading prostate cancer organization, advancing a future where prostate cancer detection is early, support is unwavering, and care is accessible to all. For almost 30 years, ZERO has led the way in prostate cancer advocacy and support, successfully unlocking funding toward breakthrough discoveries, treatments, and lifesaving access to care.

As the nation's #1 provider of prostate cancer resources, programs, and services, ZERO has supported millions of people at-risk or diagnosed, and their families. As the voice of the prostate cancer community, ZERO's urgent focus on breaking barriers to survival—by closing gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and care—brings critical attention to those most likely to be impacted by this disease. Learn more at ZEROCancer.org.