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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
ZERO Prostate Cancer
Scott Meeks, Senior Director, Social Media & Video Production
scott@zerocancer.org
202-203-0530

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 is the leading national nonprofit with the mission to end prostate cancer and help all who are impacted. ZERO advances research, provides support, and creates solutions to achieve health equity to meet the most critical needs of our community. From early detection to survivorship, ZERO is the premier resource for prostate cancer patients and their families to access comprehensive support, make meaningful connections, and take action to save lives. Our dedicated national and chapter staff is joined with a growing team of passionate volunteer champions to increase advocacy, awareness, and community engagement to ZERO out prostate cancer. ZERO is recognized with four out of four stars by Charity Navigator and accredited by the Better Business Bureau. ZERO spends more on programs than any other prostate cancer charity, dedicating 85 cents of every dollar to support, education, and research.