Abstract LB-57: Susan G. Komen for the Cure- A global breast cancer movement

Abstract

Abstract Twenty-two Northeast Ohio counties comprise the Northeast Ohio Affiliate for which I volunteer. The Northeast Ohio Affiliate is dedicated to combating breast cancer at every front. Up to 75% of the Affiliate's net income goes toward funding grants to local hospitals and community organizations that provide breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment programs for medically underserved women. The Affiliate is the only community resource in the Northeast Ohio region positioned to impact the core issues in ways significant enough to improve breast cancer screening rates, which will ultimately lead to a reduction in late stage diagnosis The remaining net income (a minimum of 25%) the Northeast Ohio Affiliate raises supports the national Komen Grants Program, which funds groundbreaking breast cancer research, meritorious awards and educational and scientific programs around the world. The impact of Komen's research investments is evident in every major advance in breast cancer over the past 25 years. Advocate participation in peer review is extended to involvement in many of these ongoing research projects and to other scientific activities through the Advocates in Science program. The Komen Advocates in Science (AIS) program is an inclusive community of dedicated volunteer advocates in scientific breast cancer research. We are brought together and sponsored by Komen to foster excellence in research advocacy and spur greater advocate engagement in research related activities. As an AIS Research Advocate, I participate in a variety of scientific activities to ensure that the unique and valuable perspectives of cancer survivors and others affected by cancer are integrated into scientific dialogue and decisions affecting our progress toward ending breast cancer. Advocates bring a real-world understanding of what most impacts those affected by breast cancer, and they also bring an urgency to find cures and more effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, AIS members engage in ongoing education to enhance our advocacy skills and expand our scientific knowledge. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-57. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-LB-57