Save the Bottoms at Twin Cities Pride 2023
Men who have sex with other men, especially those living with HIV, are at risk for anal cancer. Unfortunately, most people at risk for anal cancer are not screened by their providers to see if they should be referred to a specialist for something called High Resolution Anoscopy or "HRA", a procedure that can identify precancerous lesions of the anus and prevent anal cancer from forming. An HRA can be performed in just a few minutes in a clinic or a procedure room by a highly-trained, expert provider.
Save the Bottoms will be at Twin Cities Pride this year to educate and interact with the community, as well as provide FREE anal cancer screenings! Information and screenings will be provided at two locations:
- In a mobile changing tent on the Pride Festival grounds at booth #O138.
- In a mobile clinic vehicle a short distance away at 1300 Harmon Place, Minneapolis, MN.
Screening times:
- Friday 6/23: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Saturday 6/24: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m .
- Sunday 6/25: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Participants who choose to complete a short survey and the screening will be entered into a drawing for 8th row Taylor Swift tickets! Participants will be contacted with the results of their swab once lab testing has been completed.
Save the Bottoms aims to:
- Educate and support doctors and nurses who see and treat high-risk populations
- Educate and inform people at higher risk of anal cancer about their risk as well as screening and treatment options
- Learn about LGBTQ+ people's experiences with the healthcare system, especially as it relates to cancer screening and care
- Investigate new and innovative methods to increase screening for anal cancer
- Make sure those who screen positive have access to high-quality HRA providers