American Cancer Society continues cancer research
“It’s so important for women touched by this disease to have a network of friends and supporters who understand and have been there. They really need this support to help them cope,” says Gail Askew, a Reach for Recovery volunteer with the American Cancer Society.
The American Cancer Society observes National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October and highlights its year-round role as a leading resource for breast cancer programs, support, researching information and advocacy to empower women and their loved ones to fight this disease.
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, excluding skin cancer, and one of the most fatal if not detected early. Breast cancer will strike 205,000 times this year in the United States and will claim the lives of more than 40,000 American women. In Tennessee alone, more than 4,400 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002 and an estimated 900 deaths will be attributed to the disease.
By calling 1-800-ACS-2345, anyone with a concern about breast cancer can access an American Cancer Society specialist 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These specialists provide answers and resources to cancer-related questions and concerns. The American Cancer Society’s web site, www.cancer.org, also provides in-depth breast cancer information.
For women seeking support during this often stressful time, the American Cancer Society offers numerous support programs.
• Look Good? Feel Better is a program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment by teaching them beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self-image.
• Reach to Recovery is a volunteer visitation program matching breast cancer survivors with someone recently diagnosed with breast cancer. A Reach to Recovery volunteer listens to the patient’s concerns, recommends resources and offers emotional support.
While American Cancer Society researchers expand the boundaries of medical science, political decisions also affect the lives of eight million cancer survivors, their families and all potential cancer patients. Through the efforts of thousands of dedicated volunteers, the American Cancer Society is heightening its advocacy efforts and bringing cancer-related issues, including those related to breast cancer, to the forefront among legislators on the state and national levels. Examples include insurance coverage of mammography screening and for the treatment for breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.