March 6, 2008 issue
New Video and Guide Promote Teen Breast Health
The Prevent Cancer Foundation—formerly the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation—and the Howard University Cancer Center have released Breast Health Education for Young Women, a facilitator’s guide and educational video designed to promote lifelong good breast-health habits for young women, particularly women of color. These materials are designed for nationwide use in urban school and community group settings. The video and facilitator’s guide are designed for use with high school girls and can be integrated into school curricula or used by youth group and community center health educators.
“We know these materials can increase awareness and knowledge about breast cancer among young urban women and teach them valuable skills that they can put into practice. Furthermore, they can take life-saving information home to their mothers, aunts and grandmothers to encourage them to get screened for breast cancer,” said Carolyn Aldigé, Prevent Cancer Foundation president and founder.
Nationally, the breast cancer mortality rate for African American women is 34.4 per 100,000, according to 2007 estimates. In comparison, the rate is 25.4 per 100,000 for white women. Recent statistics show that African American women are much less likely to survive five years, primarily because later detection of the disease leads to a more advanced stage upon diagnosis.
Video
The 14-minute educational video includes facts about breast cancer, a demonstration of a breast self-exam, an overview of mammography, treatment options and survivor stories. The video is available in DVD and VHS formats and can be ordered for the cost of shipping and handling at www.preventcancer.org.
Facilitator’s Guide
Health educators, teachers and group leaders can use the facilitator’s guide to provide skills-based breast health education with groups. The guide contains instructions for facilitating interactive activities, including a discussion of the video, a demonstration and practice of breast self-exams using breast models, a critical-thinking exercise, role play and more. The guide also contains information on how to use the activities to meet national or international educational content standards. Among the resources are a glossary, frequently asked questions, and sample tests, letters and forms that will be helpful in implementing a breast health education program. You can download the guide or order it for the cost of shipping and handling at www.preventcancer.org.
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