In this issue we focus on the "Comunidad Sana" program.

In the United States, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death for Hispanic women. For this reason, El Pueblo, Inc. has created the "Comunidad Sana"(healthy community) program, a program focused on educating Latinas about breast cancer and connecting them to screening and diagnostic resources.

Comunidad Sana, funded by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure NC Triangle Affiliate, conducts interactive one on one and educational sessions, with large and small groups, to provide information and cultural and linguistically-appropriate material about breast cancer and early detection.

Comunidad Sana works to reduce structural barriers, such as cost and transportation, Latinas face when seeking screening and diagnostic services. This program also focuses on providing technical assistance to other organizations interested in providing breast health services to Latinas. Comunidad Sana covers 16 counties in North Carolina: Caswell, Chatham, Durham, Edgecombe, Franklin, Granville, Halifax, Harnett, Johnston, Lee, Moore, Nash, Orange, Person, Vance, and Wake. If you are interested in a presentation, or in any other information, please contact Aida Guadalupe Taylor at 919-835-1525, ext 227 or via e-mail at aida@elpueblo.org

El Pueblo frequently encounters breast cancer survivors in doing its outreach. We refer all cancer survivors to support groups like Fe, Amor, y Esperanza, run by Wake County Human Services.

Fe, Amor y Esperanza meets on the second Saturday of every month at 1801 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC, 27603. In addition to friendship and emotional support, the group provides answers to many questions women undergoing breast cancer treatment may have, including questions regarding the availability of services and/or assistance in the area.

All women, young and old, have the risk of developing breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Latinas in the US. In 2010, the American Cancer Society reported that 191,410 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 40,820 died from it. 1 out of 8 women will develop this disease, but in a study of survivors from 1984 to 1996, 79% won the battle and from 1999 to 2005, it is estimated that 90% will survive. Every woman should become familiar with her breasts by spending time in front of the mirror every month, looking for any changes in shape, color or feel of their breasts. Early detection provides more options for successful treatment. We, therefore, recommend the following:

Become familiar with your breasts: At least by age 20, become familiar with your breasts by looking at yourself in the mirror at least once a month. Look at the shape, color and size of your breasts, ideally a few days after the last day of your menstruation. Post-menopausal women can perform the self-exam on the same day every month. It is also important that you communicate with your doctor about any changes you see in your breasts, even small changes.

A clinical breast exam: this exam should be performed by your doctor or nurse, once every three years from the age of 20 to 39 years, and once per year thereafter.

A mammogram: this is an x-ray of the breasts. This exam takes less than 15 minutes and doesn't cause much discomfort except for compressing the breasts to actually take the x-ray. This should be done annually for all women aged 40 and older. Women younger than 40 who have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should consult with their doctor to determine when and how frequently a mammogram should be performed. Communication with your medical provider is important at all times.