CEO Statement on Chadwick Boseman’s Death

From Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance:

"The Colorectal Cancer Alliance mourns with Chadwick Boseman’s fans, friends, and family over the loss of this bright star to colon cancer. Somberly, we share that young-onset colorectal cancer is on the rise and cuts short thousands of lives every year. 

Colorectal cancer awareness is hampered by an intense stigma, particularly in the Black community. Cancer is a personal battle, and we respect Boseman’s choice to shield the public from his diagnosis. The Alliance, however, encourages open conversations about this disease. Even superheroes can develop colorectal cancer. 

Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the U.S. when men and women are combined, and it disproportionately affects our black and brown communities. With education and awareness to defeat the stigma, resources for those diagnosed, and innovative research toward cures, we can end colorectal cancer in our lifetime. 

Learn more information on health equity and colorectal cancer.

Donate to the Alliance's lifesaving programs.

Media inquiries: 
Maurisa Turner-Potts at maurisapotts@gmail.com or (703) 501-6289