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South Carolina Cancer Alliance asks for $500,000 to expand prostate cancer outreach and screening
Summary
The South Carolina Cancer Alliance requested $500,000 to continue a statewide prostate cancer education and screening program that has reached about 3,000 men and provided more than 500 PSA screenings in urban and rural communities.
Nicole Echols, representing the South Carolina Cancer Alliance, asked the legislative committee for $500,000 to continue the Alliance’s prostate cancer education and screening work across the state.
Echols said the Alliance convenes the South Carolina cancer plan and focuses on prevention, screening and survivorship. "We are asking for $500,000 to continue the work that we've done in the prostate cancer space," she told the committee. She described a grassroots outreach model that partners with churches, fraternities and community organizations and said the Alliance has spoken with more than 3,000 men and screened over 500.
Echols explained the Alliance’s funding mix: recent support came via DHHS and DPH and the group also receives ad hoc support from partners and providers. She said a PSA test costs about $40 in their community screening model and that the Alliance refers individuals who screen positive to FQHCs, free clinics or hospital partners for follow‑up care.
Lawmakers praised the community outreach model and asked about funding and expansion plans; Echols said the Alliance works with MUSC, Hollings, Roper and other hospital systems for referrals and partner services.
The committee did not vote on a grant or appropriation during the meeting; the Alliance said it will submit additional material and seek continued support.
