The Fight Against Breast Cancer: A Message of Hope and Prevention for the Latino Community
October turns pink around the world, symbolizing the fight against breast cancer. This month serves as a call to raise awareness about a disease that affects millions of women, including many in the Latino community.
On Telemundo’s Acceso Total program, Magnolia Contreras shared valuable information about breast cancer:
Emphasizing not only the importance of early detection but also the initiatives being implemented to improve the treatments available for the Latino community.
Magnolia Contreras is the Vice President of Community Health at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Breast Cancer in the Latino Community
During the interview, Contreras pointed out that:
Every woman faces a significant risk of developing breast cancer over the course of her life.
Furthermore, she noted that:
This risk may be even higher for Latina women, who have up to a 30% increased likelihood due to genetic and socioeconomic factors.
This statistic highlights the urgent need to improve education and access to healthcare services in this population.
By doing so, disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer can be addressed more effectively.
Who Should Get a Mammogram?
One of Contreras’ key messages was the importance of early detection through mammography.
She recommended that women over 40 consult with their doctors to evaluate the need for this exam.
However, she stressed that those with a family history of cancer (not just breast cancer, but also prostate or other types) should start discussing this issue even earlier.
Family history can be a determining factor for doctors in deciding when to begin screenings and how often they should be conducted.
What to Do If You Notice a Suspicious Symptom?
Contreras emphasized:
If a woman notices any changes in her breasts, such as a lump or swelling, she should contact her primary care physician immediately.
While it may not always indicate cancer, timely evaluation is crucial to determine the necessary tests.
Sometimes, people delay medical consultation due to convenience or personal commitments, but the message is clear: prevention and prompt action are essential.
Strategies to Reduce Risk
Self-care and healthy habits are essential for lowering the risk of breast cancer.
Contreras highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and undergoing the recommended preventive screenings.
Keeping a constant watch on personal health is one of the best ways to detect cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable.
Innovation in Treatment
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is taking a step forward in the fight against cancer with the construction of a new hospital in Boston.
Contreras shared the news about the opening of a 10- to 14-story building with 300 beds, which will allow patients to receive advanced treatments that require several days of hospitalization.
This project reflects the institution’s commitment to research and innovation in cancer treatments, ensuring that these advancements will be accessible to all patients, including Latino communities.
Taking Charge of Your Health in the Latino Community
Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women worldwide.
However, it is a disease that can be fought with the:
- Right information
- Access to healthcare
- The adoption of healthy habits.
In this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Magnolia Contreras’ message is clear:
Early detection saves lives, and it is every woman’s responsibility to take charge of her health.
It is crucial that all women, especially those in the Latino community, stay informed and take action to reduce their risk.
Talking to a doctor, undergoing mammograms when necessary, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are fundamental measures for staying protected.
Resources in Massachusetts for the Latino Community
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute offers various resources for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Visit the Dana-Farber booth https://myhealthfair.com/en/booths/dana-farber/ to learn more.
Therefore, contact your local health center for information on mammograms and other preventive screenings, and also learn about support programs for patients and their families.
