While Latinos make up 12% of the population, over twice as many are uninsured. They are almost 3 times less likely to have a consistent source of medical care. Latinos are one and a half times more likely to use the hospital ER as a primary source of care compared to the general population.
This leads to later diagnosis and treatment, poorer health outcomes. Uninsured Hispanics/Latinos are two to three times more likely to have cancer diagnosed at a later stage, making it less treatable.
Latinas Contra Cancer works with Latino Patients and Families, Agencies and Institutions around issues of cancer education, support and outreach, program development, and cultural competence with the mission of increasing awareness, access to care, reducing poor outcomes and high mortality rates. Our services have been organized into three categories:
Patients and Families
- Cancer Education
Breast Health Bingo - Workshop that addresses myths and misinformation around issues of breast cancer, teaches self breast exams and helps qualified women get mammograms.
Sobrevivir al Cáncer- Educational workshops for cancer patients and their families
- Support Services
Spanish language support group for cancer patients and their families in San Jose and Santa Clara County. Discussions will cover problems related to cancer and its impact on the patient and family such as depression, fear, anger, nutrition, affordable access to drugs. Sessions are the first and third Tuesday of the month. If you are interested in attending, call (408) 280-0811 or office@latinascontracancer.org
- Case Management- Phone counseling, hospital and home visits, resource referrals and some translation. martha@latinascontracancer.org
Our services for patients and families are free-made possible by individual donors, corporate and foundation grants and agency fundraisers.
Agencies and Institutions
- Program Development-Support Groups, Education & Outreach
- Cultural Competence-Better understanding of how to serve this community
Our work with agencies and institutions is a fee based service.
Web Site Resources
- Cancer Publications and Other Materials - for Patients & Families
- National and Local Cancer Care Resources
- Updates on Treatment, Training, Clinical Trials and Psychosocial Services
- Events