Helda L. Pinzon-Perez, PhD, CHES¹, Miguel Angel Perez, PhD, CHES², Vickie D. Krenz, PhD, MSPH³, Eric W. Krenz, PhD³, and Luis Baez⁴. (1) Health Science, California State University, Fresno, 2345 East San Ramon Ave, M/S MH 30, Fresno, CA 93740-8031, (559)278-5329, hpinzonp@csufresno.edu, (2) Health Sciences, California State University-Fresno, 2345 E. San Ramon Ave. M/H 30, Fresno, CA 93740-8031, (3) Department of Health Science, California State University, Fresno, 2345 East San Ramon Ave, Fresno, CA 93740, (4) Health Science, Community Health Worker, 2345 East San Ramon Ave, M/S MH 30, Fresno, CA CA

This presentation posts the results of a study with 36 male Latino farm workers living in a rural area of California. This study involved the development of focus groups to determine levels of knowledge of Latino farm workers about breast cancer and screening techniques such as breast self-examination, clinical exam, and mammograms. Participants were asked about their knowledge and attitudes towards motivating their sexual partners to practice breast self-examination, have a clinical exam of the breast, and having a mammogram if required. Participants in the focus groups suggested the creation of a "Compadres por la salud/Lay health workers" club in which Latino males could become active partners in health promotion and disease prevention. The results of the study indicated that Latino males can be sucessful lay health workers and active members of the health care team. Through quotes, this presentation portrays relevant cultural elements in working with Latino males as lay health workers. A Community Health Worker will be part of the presentation team.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the attitudes of Latino farm workers towards breast self-examination and clinical breast examination for women and men
• Discuss the role of Latino male farmworkers in early detection strategies for female and male breast cancer
• Analyze strategies to motivate Latino male lay health workers (compadres) to be integral members of the health care team

Keywords: Breast Cancer Screening, Community Health Promoters

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This study was supported by a grant from California State University, Fresno