Designing evidence-based programs to reduce breast cancer mortality in three Latin America cities

In Latin America, breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Breast cancer incidence and mortality trends have increased significantly in the past 10 years.  In three Latin American cities (Sao Paulo, Monterrey, and Panama City), Susan G. Komen, in partnership with the Caterpillar Foundation, developed a framework to design evidence-based strategic plans for reducing breast cancer mortality.

Komen’s approach included  health system analyses conducted with in- country partners aimed at defining the available infrastructure and quality of public health services; understanding the factors that determine why women enter the breast cancer continuum of care; and the barriers that prevent women from completing the continuum.

Health care system deficiencies were identified within the primary, secondary and tertiary care levels (i.e. medical professional skill level and lack of delineated referral guidelines).  Community level gaps identified include lack of information, awareness, and social support networks. To address these gaps, Komen implemented strategic activities that include funding local breast health and breast cancer programs, communicating promising practices around the breast cancer continuum of care and developing partnerships through strategic roundtables.

The presentation will describe how Komen utilizes the framework to drive programs and develop evaluation plans. Komen will provide a summary of the assessments conducted in each city and the ensuing data-driven interventions and partnerships that address training of health care providers on standard breast health care guidelines, protocols and referral processes; improvement of patient navigation around the continuum of care; and communicating patient rights.