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[PA-6] A Participatory Approach to Addressing Cancer Concerns in a Haitian Community in Miami-Dade County Sabrina Charles, BA, (Noel Brathwaite, PhD; Dorothy Parker, MHS; Edward Trapido, ScD), Florida Comprehensive Cancer Control Initiative of the University of Miami, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL
This project addresses late-stage diagnosis of major cancers through a community-based participatory model. A zip-code analysis of cancer incidence data for Miami-Dade County revealed a high percentage of late-stage diagnosis for colorectal, prostate, cervical, breast, and lung cancers in a community that is primarily Haitian.
A subsequent survey of selected community leaders indicated support for an education and prevention program. Based on these findings, the Florida Comprehensive Cancer Control Initiative (FCCCI) of the University of Miami formed a partnership with the Haitian American Association Against Cancer (HAAAC) to plan and implement the Miami-Dade Cancer Prevention Project. Representatives from 12 community organizations volunteered to form an Advisory Committee. For six months, the Committee met monthly to develop a strategic plan based on the Awareness, Demonstration and Training concepts proposed by the FCCCI.
The Advisory Committee then formed a Subcommittee on the Media/Public Relations to develop a four-tiered education and awareness campaign that includes radio and television presentations and public service announcements, as well as a booth at the annual Haitian Roots and Cultural Festival. Additional Advisory Committee initiatives include developing a cancer resource directory to distribute to local agencies and clinics, designing a cancer training series called "Cancer 101 for the Clergy", organizing the health sector to increase access to screening tests, developing a sustainable network of organizations, and increasing the community's capacity to mobilize resources around cancer. These combined efforts should result in a decrease in late stage cancer diagnoses and a strengthening of the community's capacity to address health concerns.
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Date: July 10-12, 2002
Location: Hilton Hotel & Towers, Washington, DC
Sponsor: U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health / Office of Public Health and Science
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