ASCRS Backgrounder

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) is the leading professional society of colorectal surgeons. With more than 2,600 total members, the ASCRS represents over 1,000 board-certified colon and rectal surgeons and other surgeons dedicated to advancing and promoting the science and practice of the treatment of patients with diseases and disorders affecting the colon, rectum, and anus.

The ASCRS performs a number of important functions, including:

• Serving as a voice for the colorectal surgery profession on socioeconomic affairs. For example, the society monitors federal legislative and governmental activity potentially impacting the colorectal surgery profession and speaks out on behalf of the profession with congress and government professionals when needed.
• Fostering patient awareness and education on colorectal diseases through the development and distribution of more than 1.75 million copies of a series of brochures on a range of colorectal disease topics, including screening and surveillance for colorectal cancer, follow up evaluation after surgery for colorectal cancer, new surgical options for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, and information on a variety of colorectal ailments.
• Dedicating considerable attention to medical research in colorectal disease through its Research Foundation, which has raised more than $5 million for this purpose. Grants, ranging from $6,000-$125,000, provide residents and clinical investigators with an opportunity to begin research studies involving specific issues in colon and rectal surgery. "There are several areas of interest to the Foundation for which there appear to be few if any other sources of research funding, such as the causes and treatment of benign anorectal disease and the causes, prevention and treatment of defection disorders," explained Research Committee Chair Ronald Bleday, MD. "The Foundation doesn't issue requests for research on specific topics. Instead, it encourages applicants to use their imaginations and clinical insights to develop ideas that will help ameliorate the consequences of colorectal diseases."

In addition, one of the Society's main functions is to provide ongoing education to colon and rectal surgeons, general surgeons and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of colon and rectal diseases. ASCRS accomplishes this in a number of ways:

• ASCRS' National Annual Meeting provides opportunities to interact with experts in colorectal surgery, gain practical tips on managing tough surgical cases, and assess results of new clinical trials in colorectal care. The conference features presentations on cutting-edge research. Workshops and symposia give surgeons hands-on-experience.
• The Society's monthly journal, Diseases of the Colon & Rectum, features original papers that significantly advance knowledge within the field of colon and rectal surgery. Contents of the journal also include case reports, technical notes, and updates on recent advances in colorectal treatments.
• The Colon and Rectal Surgery Education Program (CARSEP), a periodically updated self-assessment program and test, offers surgeons a comprehensive syllabus with references, critiques and a bibliography booklet, as well as the opportunity to earn up to 50 credit hours in Category I of the Physician's Recognition Award of the American Medical Association.
• Continuing medical education at the local level through regional Society meetings.

Contact: ASCRS
(847) 290-9184
media@fascrs.org