4234.0: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 - 2:30 PM

Abstract #18061

Empowerment of Breast Cancer Survivors: An International Model

Bella D. August, CSW, Women's Caucus, NY, N/A, bdaugust@bellatlantic.net

Breast cancer incidence and mortality are significant health problems in many countries other than the United States, particularly those where resources for diagnosis and treatment are limited. This session will report on work with breast cancer survivors in several Eastern European countries (Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland), based upon a self-help, survivor-to-survivor, empowerment model of addressing the psychosocial issues that accompany the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

From the viewpoint of a long-term survivor, who is also a social worker and advocate, and has served as a consultant on international projects concerning psychosocial issues of breast cancer, the presentation will explore the commonalities in the experiences of women in different countries, despite the important cultural, social, and economic differences that exist.

Learning Objectives: Participants will learn how the self-help, survivor to survivor model of addressing the psychosocial issues that accompany breast cancer can be applied in areas with limited resources

Keywords: Breast Cancer Programs, International Public Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA