Fon Favour Aberei’s Post

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month behind us, it’s essential to keep the focus on the needs of breast cancer patients and survivors year-round. The latest report from the American Cancer Society reminds us of the progress we’ve made, with a 44% drop in breast cancer mortality since 1989, but also reveals ongoing health disparities that urgently need our attention. Having worked in chronic disease management for two decades, and as someone who witnessed my mother’s journey as a breast cancer survivor, I’m especially aware of how much this disease impacts individuals and families across backgrounds. But while breast cancer affects many, the path to care can be uneven—American Indian, Alaska Native, and Black women still face significant barriers to early screening and quality treatment, leading to higher mortality rates in these groups. This is why health equity remains at the core of our mission. From expanding access to advanced treatments to ensuring that every woman, regardless of her zip code or income, can receive timely screenings, we can make a difference by championing patient-centered care and pushing for policies that eliminate these disparities. Even as we enter November, let’s continue advocating for inclusive, high-quality care for all and supporting initiatives that break down barriers to access. Together, we can move closer to a world where everyone has a fair chance at survival and health. #BreastCancer #HealthEquity #ChronicDiseaseAwareness #ChronicDiseasePrevention

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial reminder to prioritize our health and well-being. Ensuring your health is in good hands has never been easier – discover the convenience of scheduling a Health Risk Assessment through Recuro Primary Care: https://hubs.li/Q02Rzzm20 It's disheartening to learn that 15% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease [1] but often lack the resources to take preventive measures until it's too late. In the United States, breast cancer is alarmingly common, accounting for about 30% of all newly reported female cancer cases each year [2]. This year alone, an estimated 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed. Tragically... about 43,700 women will lose their battle this year [3]. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let's stress the importance of prevention and early detection. With Recuro Primary Care, we utilize personalized diagnostics to empower you and your loved ones to proactively manage the risk of hereditary breast cancer. The incredible strength and determination of countless women battling this disease motivate us to expand our solutions. Our mission is to enhance the health outcomes of our members, and with Recuro's comprehensive Health Risk Assessment, we equip patients with the tools they need for early intervention. Preventative care is a cornerstone of long-term health - potentially extending your life. This includes regular healthcare screenings, check-ups, and patient guidance aimed at averting the onset of illnesses, diseases, and other health-related issues [4]. These services can also identify problems at an early stage when treatment is most likely to be effective [5]. Join us in spreading the word to raise awareness about breast cancer and show your support! For more information about Recuro Primary Care and our Health Risk Assessment, please visit the link: https://hubs.li/Q02Rzz9R0. If you're able, consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society to support further research: https://hubs.li/Q02Rzk7X0 - your contribution matters. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. #Cancer #Recuro #RecuroHealth #PrimaryCare #HRA #Diagnostics #BreastCancer #BreastCancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives Phil Fasano Michael Brombach Kimberly Darling Josh Nordtvedt Allison Martin Quinn Pearl Jon O'Toole Bill Fryling Matthew Turrin, CPA Jennifer Balliet Jennifer Reyes Daniel Wang Colby Thatcher Kiersi K. Victor Wong, MHA Matthew Erickson, CSM Kellye Phillips Sources: [1] https://hubs.li/Q02Rzwq40 [2] https://hubs.li/Q02RzvKj0 [3] https://hubs.li/Q02RzvKj0 [4] https://hubs.li/Q02RzvKk0 [5] https://hubs.li/Q02Rzk7Y0

Colorectal and Kidney Cancer Awareness Month: A Dual Call to Action! March isn't just a month of renewal and blooming flowers; it's a powerful reminder of our collective commitment to health and solidarity. As we honor Kidney Cancer Awareness Month, we also unite in raising awareness for Colorectal Cancer, creating a shared platform for reflection, support, and action. Addressing Two Battles: Kidney and Colorectal Cancer: Both diseases demand our acknowledgment, advocacy, and a shared commitment to improving outcomes and quality of life. Celebrating Progress Across Two Fronts: Advancements in medical research and practice are not confined to a single arena. Kidney and colorectal cancer research have seen remarkable strides. From innovative treatment modalities to screening initiatives, practitioners and researchers are pushing boundaries to enhance the lives of patients. Spreading a Dual Message of Early Detection: Education remains our most potent weapon against cancer. This month beckons us to understand the risk factors, recognize symptoms, and prioritize regular screenings for both kidney and colorectal cancers. Early detection is a shared goal that empowers individuals to take control of their health, potentially altering the course of their cancer journey. A Shared Call to Action: Whether it's spreading the word, hosting events, sharing information, or encouraging preventive screenings, our combined efforts contribute to a world where kidney and colorectal cancers are not only treatable but preventable. Let's honor the journeys of those affected, celebrate the progress made, and renew our commitment to a future free from the burden of cancer #CancerAwarenessMonth #DualImpact #UnityAgainstCancer #Fightingcancer #cancerawareness #earlydetection #earlydetectionsaveslives #earlydetectionmatters

As an AstraZeneca Global Breast Cancer Care Council Member, a World Economic Forum Champion of the Global Alliance for Women’s Health, and through The Wellbeing Foundation Africa Clinical Oncology Track supporting the World Health Organization Global Breast Cancer Initiative #GBCI, I was delighted to attend yesterday's webinar launching the Technical Brief on Patient Navigation for Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Breast Cancer, alongside strategic partners from the ministries of health, academic institutions, and persons with lived experiences who shared their stories as we globally celebrate breast cancer awareness month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer globally, with around 2.3 million new cases annually, accounting for one in eight cancer cases across both sexes and a quarter of all cancers in women, with 70% of mortality occurring in resource-constrained settings. Barriers such as fear, stigma, low awareness, and health system limitations contribute to late-stage diagnoses and poor outcomes, especially in younger populations, leading to premature mortality and maternal orphans. The WHO's Global Breast Cancer Initiative, launched in 2021, aims to reduce breast cancer mortality by 2.5% annually through 2040, saving 2.5 million lives via three strategic pillars: early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive management. On the webinar yesterday, #WBFA and stakeholders focused on the launch of the Technical Brief on Patient Navigation, an evidence-based personalised intervention designed to guide patients through often complex systems to receive timely access, particularly in low-income and minority populations. Through significantly reducing delays, improving patient adherence to care and enhancing survival rates, the model improves overall quality of care and life by connecting patients with affordable treatment options and support systems to manage their needs in the course of treatment. By asessing both the health system and community levels, we can reduce breast cancer mortality and close the gap in breast cancer care worldwide. #BCAM2024 #PinkOctober #BreastCancerAwareness #BreastCancerSupport #WellbeingForAll

The Importance of Sharing Our Health Journeys – A Lesson in Pancreatic Cancer Awareness & Announcement 😍 This November, during Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, I’m reflecting on a deeply personal experience. My father and I had been estranged for years, I had heard he was sick and had many bouts of pancreatitis but he didn't share much information. Until the day I was called to his hospital bed after he had coded. He was on life support when I walked into the room and was yellow from head to toe. It was an unmistakable sign that something was terribly wrong. He unfortunately passed away the next day. After grieving for many months, I imagined what he may have faced if it was pancreatic cancer. Known for its silent progression, pancreatic cancer often goes undetected until it’s advanced, with symptoms like jaundice only appearing when the disease is already severe. I thought about how different things might have been if I had known sooner, if I’d had the chance to understand his symptoms and his journey. This experience reminded me of something critical: we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to share our health struggles openly. When we communicate our diagnoses and symptoms, we don’t just inform our families about what we’re going through; we equip them with knowledge. This knowledge can spark early screenings, proactive lifestyle changes, and, ultimately, better outcomes. As we raise awareness for pancreatic cancer this month, let’s also promote openness and education within our families. Early detection remains one of the best tools we have to combat this deadly disease, but it requires that we break down the barriers of silence and stigma that too often surround cancer. If you or someone you love has faced a cancer diagnosis, if possible take a moment to share your story. You never know whose life it might save. For my Dad and so many other of my family members who were effected by cancer, I announce my newest journey, affectionately called, "That C Word", a cancer navigation platform for patients and their families. I hope you will join us on this journey. 💜 💜 💜 💜 💜 #PancreaticCancerAwareness #HealthCommunication #EarlyDetection #FamilyHealth #Talkaboutit #diversityinclinicaltrials #Yougotthis

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which reminds us how important it is for women to take care of their health by getting regular mammograms. Morehouse General Hospital advises that women should start getting screened for breast cancer every other year when they turn 40, following the guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force . This is especially important because, even though breast cancer deaths have dropped by 44% in the last thirty years, many Black, Native American, and underserved women still face higher mortality rates. This means they need better access to important healthcare services. Breast cancer is a serious disease that starts in the cells of the breast, and it is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. Over 310,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and many will face challenges getting the treatment they need. The American Cancer Society emphasizes that early screening and diagnosis can save lives, but there are still big gaps in care for women of different backgrounds. They are asking Congress to support new laws to help improve access to cancer screenings for everyone. By getting regular checkups and following these guidelines, women can take important steps to protect their health. #BreastCancerAwareness #Mammograms #WomensHealth #MorehouseGeneralHospital #HealthEquity https://lnkd.in/g--UDK8E

As I said last week, it's October and it's time for Pink! Pink October is about Breast Cancer Awareness. According to the World Health Organization: "Breast cancer is the most common cancer globally with around 2.3 million new cases every year. It represents one in eight cancer cases in both sexes and a quarter of all cancers in women, with 70% mortality occurring in resource constrained settings. Health system barriers and patient level factors with low levels of awareness and knowledge are contributing to low uptake of early detection services, with resultant late-stage diagnoses and poor outcomes. In many resource-constrained settings, breast cancer affects a relatively younger population significantly contributing to premature mortality and maternal orphans. The World Health Organization launched the Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) in 2021 to reduce mortality rates by 2.5% per year by 2040 to save 2.5 million lives through three key pillars of action on health promotion for early detection, timely diagnosis; and comprehensive breast cancer management. The breast cancer awareness month (BCAM) is celebrated globally every October to create awareness about breast cancer. This October we will highlight the importance of early detection, timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and the need to provide support for persons with lived experience including through patient navigation. It also provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to review progress, reflect and renew commitments in tackling the disease and to build momentum to address the existing disparities and challenges in access to breast cancer care." Yes, you read that right. Breast cancer accounts for 25% of all cancer in women and in resource contrained settings the mortality rate can reach 70%! Seventy percent! With that in mind Lucrecia Jarab, Jorgelina Venturi, Fernando Joaquín Cabaña and I joined forces for some fun and to support the locinpink cause among the team at tbo, tbotalent and beyond. Maria Jose De Michiel, the mother of my three eldest children joined the party as did my youngest daugher Amanda. Maria Jose has been supporting #breastcancer #awareness causes for 12+ years now with her local field hockey team. Now, we all love pink, but most importantly get informed and get tested early AT LEAST once a year.

This #NationalBreastCancerAwarenessMonth, Valerie Nauman Nelson, Manager of Federal Policy & Advocacy at Susan G. Komen reminds us that while awareness is essential, it’s not enough. Nelson calls on everyone, including Congress, to drive meaningful policy changes and increase federal funding programs that support breast cancer patients and survivors. Turning Awareness Into Action: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month & Critical Funding Needs Every October, our nation marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) with breast health education, celebration of survivors, remembrance of loved ones, and a renewed commitment to creating a world without breast cancer. But if we are to actualize that world, we need far more than awareness—we need long-lasting policy change and a consistent commitment to funding the programs and research necessary. Through the tireless efforts of breast cancer and research advocates alike, our treatments and early detection methods today are more effective and precise than ever helping to lower the breast cancer mortality rate in the U.S. by 44% since 1989. Yet nearly 43,000 people in the U.S. are expected to die from this disease in 2024 alone. Our work is not done. Advances that were once unimaginable have now become reality thanks to the tireless efforts of our nation’s biomedical research institutions. Innovation means little when those who could benefit most from it cannot access it. That is what makes the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) so important. It provides lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic services, and navigation into treatment to low-income, uninsured or underinsured women across the country. The program has a long track record of providing vital public health services serving over 6.4 million individuals since its inception. Yet, at current funding levels, NBCCEDP serves fewer than 12% of eligible women. We must do more this NBCAM to protect and preserve vital breast health safety net services like NBCCEDP. Susan G. Komen calls on everyone to turn their awareness into action this month and call on Congress to match their commitment to breast cancer awareness with their commitment to funding the programs and services that help breast cancer patients every day.

Building upon the progress we have made in reducing breast cancer mortality rates requires ensuring more individuals have access to breast cancer screenings. Through cooperative agreements with all 50 states, tribal organizations and territories, the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) has been a lifeline for limited-income, uninsured and underinsured women, providing them with critical screenings and treatment. Congress has a chance to pass the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act, which would reauthorize the NBCCEDP and expand its reach to more people who may not otherwise be screened. We urge Congress to take this step towards saving lives from cancer while reducing costs for our health care system. hashtag #breastcancerawarenessmonth https://lnkd.in/e6_DYMfm

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) accounting for 90% of breast cancer deaths. And 25–30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer go on to develop MBC. There is currently no cure for the vast majority of cases of MBC, but people can live longer and fulfilling lives if they are provided access to existing and emerging treatments. However, not all people have access to best-practice care. Instead, health inequalities are experienced by many people with MBC – and these disparities are exacerbated in traditionally underserved communities. With breast cancer incidence in women projected to increase by over 50% by 2050, it is vital that these issues are addressed urgently. So how can policy better support people with MBC? Current breast cancer policy is skewed towards earlier stages of the disease. Thankfully, recent work has begun to highlight the need for policy change to consider people with MBC. Today, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we build on this work by publishing the first in a set of policy briefs outlining the action needed to reduce inequalities in MBC care. This first policy brief gives an overview of the global scale and impact of the disease, and of the three areas of focus for policymakers and health system decision-makers: •    Structural and systemic barriers to care •    Access to appropriate care along the pathway •    Patient experience, involvement and empowerment. The areas of focus will be built upon by three complementary policy briefs released next month. #bcsm #breastcancerawareness #metastaticbreastcancer https://lnkd.in/ee4ScShx