Breast cancer is becoming an increasing public health problem among the U. S Latina population. To begin to address this issue, programs are being created to provide education to a community with a history of inadequate primary prevention services. Within the realm of existing breast cancer educational programs, a new intervention was developed to cover genetic concerns in the Chicagoland area. In conjunction with a local health and social service breast cancer organization, the reproductive genetics division of a university-based academic department created a program to address the issue of genetic testing for common breast cancer markers in the Latina community. Spanish-language sessions were delivered to several groups within the Latino breast cancer network. These sessions concentrated in predominantly Latino communities with easy accessibilty to group members. Since the groups were cohesive and well-established, the participants were educated to the need for BRCA1 and BRCA2 informational session. Participants were introduced to fundamental genetic concepts, screening, and encouraged to participate in a pilot Latina breast cancer study. A follow-up component to the initial outreach is currently being developed to reinforce secondary prevention efforts. Additionally, Latinas need to be made aware of the implications of the lack of research on effective diagnosis, screening and treatment. Lack of research will hamper effective breast cancer campaigns directed at the Latina community due to the incapacity to sustain clinical cause or origin of the disease.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session participants will be able... 1) To identify the need for Latinas to receive educational information on breast cancer testing. 2) To recognize the importance of collaborative efforts between a state university institution and a local breast cancer support group network.
Keywords: Breast Cancer Programs, Latinas
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Illinois at Chicago
Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment, grants