By Sholnn Z. Freeman
The Howard University Cancer Center is hosting community events in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. To begin with, the Howard University 5K Breast Cancer Walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 1. The walk will begin at 8 a.m. at 1000 U Street, NW, and will conclude at the Walter E. Lester Auditorium at Howard University Hospital.
The 5K Breast Cancer Walk is hosted by the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter, OES, PHA is named in honor of Grand Worthy Matron Margaret E. Anderson.
Additionally, the Pink Party on the Plaza will be held in front of the Howard University Hospital on Friday, October 7 beginning at 11 a.m. The event will feature music, cancer information stations and Courage the Pink Fire Truck from Prince Georges County. This event is for the public as well as the Howard University and the Howard University Hospital communities.
On October 13, The Cancer Center will also present For Our Sisters: A Conversation About Breast. This event will feature Howard University doctors and faculty members having a conversation about breast cancer. The panel will cover the latest news and information about breast cancer. This year’s panel will include Jacqueline Dunmore-Griffith, M.D.; Sara Horton, M.D.; Teletia Taylor, PhD; and Cancer Center interim director Carla Williams, PhD. Opening remarks will be presented by HUH chief executive officer Anita Jenkins.
During this year’s For Our Sisters event, Thelma D. Jones, founder of the Thelma D. Jones Breast Cancer Fund and well- known breast cancer advocate will be presented the Dr. Lori L. Wilson Conquering Cancer Award. The event is free and open to the public. The event will be in person and live streamed. The event will begin at 6 p.m.
The Howard University Cancer Center is the only full-service cancer center based within an HBCU. The Cancer Center is devoted to helping patients who are predominately African American, improving their cancer care outcomes, and reducing disparities locally, nationally and even globally.
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer. AfricanAmericans have higher morbidity and mortality rates for other cancers as well, and they are also more likely to be diagnosed at more aggressive stages that are more difficult to treat and cure.
