The National Native American Breast Cancer Survivors' Support Network project is being conducted by Native American Cancer Research, in partnership with the National Indian Health Board,the Native CIRCLE, Center for Healthy Aging, and a "Gathering of Cancer Support". The purpose of this project is to improve the survival from breast cancer and quality of life after being diagnosed with breast cancer for both the patient and her loved ones. There are three categories of participants within the Network: (1) "Service Users", are Native American/First Nation cancer patients who need social, emotional, cultural and informational support; (2) "Loved Ones of Cancer Survivors" are family members and loved ones of cancer patients; and (3) "Contributors to Native Knowledge" are Native American/First Nation cancer patients who have begun the healing process and are interested in helping us learn more how cancer is affecting our communities. Support includes telephone support and print/video materials. There are approximately ten Native American telephone counselors, of which over half are cancer "thrivers/ survivors" themselves. The counselors primarily reside in Native communities and villages in diverse geographic regions of the U.S. This presentation will provide an update of the overall program, including information about each of the three participation categories of the Network. The Network is currently expanding into rural, reservation, and urban Native communities.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will be able to: (1)Identify how they can help Native American/First Nations cancer patients access support services through the Network; and (2) Describe Native American/First Nation cultural issues related to cancer survival
Keywords: Quality of Life, Breast Cancer Programs
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.