Educating African American and Hispanic women about early detection of breast cancer through mammography

African American and Hispanic women often do not get screened for breast cancer. Only 70% of African American women and 65% of Hispanic women age 40 or older had a mammogram in the past two years (NCI, 2005). Lack of screening can lead to later diagnosis, later entry into treatment, and even increased mortality.

The FDA Office of Women's Health (OWH) launched the Pink Ribbon Sunday (PRS) campaign to educate African American and Hispanic women about early detection of breast cancer through mammography. The campaign strives to reduce breast cancer health disparities by empowering church leaders to develop mammography awareness programs tailored to the needs of their communities. Churches received a PRS tool kit and how-to-guide, free brochures, and technical support from FDA regional staff. PRS targeted church leaders because churches are important centers of spiritual, educational, and financial support for women of color.

The first campaign was conducted at 153 churches in Houston, TX in partnership with the local American Cancer Society. PRS has since expanded to include over 2000 churches in urban and rural communities in Dallas, Atlanta, Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, and Oklahoma reaching over 100,000 women. PRS activities ranged from mobile mammography events and health fairs to “Pink” tea parties and concerts. PRS has also collaborated with national organizations such as the US Conference of Mayors and Integris Health.

This presentation will provide an overview of the PRS campaign strategy, outcomes, and lessons learned. Attendees will also learn the OWH partnership model and strategies for translating science-based health information into materials for consumers.