Have a seat and let’s talk about something we usually don’t talk about. This fall across the state, stools are taking center stage to spark conversation about colon cancer.
The Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education launched “Weird Looking Stools,” a statewide, art-based awareness campaign turning everyday hangouts into hubs for colon cancer education.
Through Nov. 30, one-of-a-kind sculptural seats by Atlanta artist Julian Scalia are stationed in 20 bars and coffee shops across the state to spark conversations, normalize symptom awareness and encourage people to seek screening.
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in both Georgia and the United States, and cases among younger adults are rising. By 2030, it’s projected to become the No. 1 cancer killer for people under 50.
“Sometimes humor, art and surprise are the best ways to save lives,” said Lynn Durham, president and CEO of Georgia CORE.
An eye-catching conversation starter
To raise awareness, each sculptural stool references a real symptom of colon cancer — from bright red designs symbolizing blood in the feces to narrow shapes that hint at pencil-thin bowel movements. Nearby signage, QR codes, coasters and coffee sleeves connect visitors to resources.
“This was all supposed to be a conversation starter,” Durham said. “We really wanted to do something that was engaging and eye-catching, mostly for people 25-45. This campaign was designed to catch young people where they are: in bars, coffee shops and restaurants.”
The campaign highlights the rising toll of colorectal cancer in younger people, noting that in 2023, 757 Georgians under 50 were diagnosed — including one as young as 9. In 2024, 132 Georgians ages 20-49 died from the disease.
Georgia CORE chose art, and a little surprise, to break through the noise. Still, the goal was not shock.
“We wanted something that would actually attract people and wasn’t going to repulse them,” Durham said.
Since launching Sept. 15, the Weird Looking Stools website has drawn more than 10,000 visitors. Bar and restaurant owners are reporting that patrons are actively scanning the QR codes on the stools, and survivors have started reaching out to share their stories — which Georgia CORE said it hopes to feature online soon.
“Reactions range from ‘this is so cool’ to ‘hysterical,’” Durham said. “We don’t know if we want it to be funny, but we want it to be exciting and engaging.”
Looking ahead to Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, Georgia CORE plans to focus more specifically on Black communities, citing higher incidence and mortality rates.
Credit: Chemistry Advertising
Credit: Chemistry Advertising
Know the key symptoms
If you spot one of these unusual sculptural stools out in the wild, don’t just walk by. Take a moment to read the signage and scan the QR code to learn colon cancer symptoms, screening guidelines and where to get help.
The stools highlight key warning signs, including blood in your feces, narrow or pencil-thin feces, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss. If you’re 45 or older, talk to your doctor about getting screened. Most importantly, share what you’ve learned and ask your family about their history with colon cancer.
“If you see a weird stool in your local bar, it’s more than a conversation starter; it’s a reminder to check for symptoms,” Durham added. “Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers if caught early. This campaign is about making people stop, look and take action.”
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