Breast Cancer Awareness events took place throughout the state of Louisiana during October. According to LSU School of Public Health's Louisiana Tumor Registry, among Louisiana women, breast cancer is the most common cancer and the 2nd leading cause of cancer death.  The average annual incidence rate of female breast cancer in Louisiana ranked 28th in the nation and the mortality rate was the 2nd highest in the U.S.

The Louisiana Cancer Research Center, in partnership with Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living held a breast cancer awareness webinar to share important insights into prevention, screening, and thriving after a diagnosis. Participants learned how proper screening is related to healthcare outcomes, the influence of tobacco as a risk factor for breast cancer and next steps after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Denise Cox, a  patient navigator for the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program (LBCHP) at LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health, presented information on the importance of regular breast cancer screenings and mammograms.  She urged women to conduct breast self-examinations and undergo mammograms for those age 40+, or younger if they have a history of breast cancer or symptoms. LBCHP helps qualifying women receive low-cost mammograms and pap smears.  The Centers for Disease Control developed the breast and cervical cancer early detection program to provide low cost, timely screenings to uninsured and underserved women. "That's what we do at the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program.," she told the group. "We help navigate patients who are qualified to help them overcome barriers that will otherwise stop them from receiving a mammogram."

The LCRC partnered with Xavier University of Louisiana to present a Breast Cancer Town Hall that featured an informative discussion and community resources. "By being here, you're showing your commitment to your health and also your community,” said Dr. Tori Wiley, PharmD, Xavier University. According to LaKeisha Williams, PhD, LCRC Associate Lead, Population Sciences and Disparities, “Community events provide an opportunity to educate all diverse populations, different ages, different races, different genders.”

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Dr. Shawn McKinney,  a board-certified surgeon at LSU Health New Orleans, represented the LCRC at The Louisiana Freedman Minister's Wives & Widows League's Encourage Her Brunch. Dr. McKinney specializes in breast cancer surgery and answered many questions from attendees.

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The LCRC Office of Community Outreach and Engagement partnered with the Southern University at New Orleans Nursing Department to hold a breast cancer awareness event during SUNO basketball tailgating. Nursing students showed participants how to conduct breast self-exams and answered questions.

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Other events presented by LCRC partner organizations included:

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Tulane Cancer Center Physician Researcher Dr. Ralph Corsetti, Chief of Surgical Oncology; Dr. Laura Rodriguez, Tulane - Department of Surgery Resident; and Tulane Cancer Center Executive Director Seanne Falconer, MBA, MSHS, FACHE, joinedAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Omicron Psi Chapter for an evening of breast cancer awareness and empowerment. From early detection tips to treatment insights, they encouraged women to be their own best health advocates.

LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health

The Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program (LBCHP), partnered with the New Orleans Public Library to provide education and referrals for mammograms.

Ochsner Health

Ochsner Health - Covington performed screening mammograms for women 40 and older and The Ochsner Health MD Anderson Cancer Center & St. Tammany Health System  "Be Well Bus" provided screenings at WDSU in New Orleans.

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