In 1987, the U.S. House of Representatives designated the full third week in April as “National Minority Cancer Awareness Week. The resolution drew attention to, “an unfortunate, but extremely important fact about cancer. While cancer affects men and women of every age, race, ethnic background and economic class, the disease has a disproportionately severe impact on minorities and the economically disadvantaged.” Each year National Minority Cancer Awareness Week promotes increased awareness of prevention and treatment among those segments of the populations at greater risk of developing cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, ethnic and minority populations across the United States suffer disproportionately from cancer and its after-effects. Overcoming cancer health disparities is one of the best opportunities we have for lessening the burden of cancer.
To learn more about NASW’s work in addressing cancer, please go to:
Free online continuing education courses in understanding cancer, cancer caregiving, and adherence to cancer oral medications: http://www.naswwebed.org/.
Articles for the public: www.helpstartshere.org.
Health Specialty Practice Section: http://www.socialworkers.org/sections/default.asp.
Credentials: http://www.socialworkers.org/credentials/default.asp.
Standards: http://www.socialworkers.org/practice/default.asp.
Publications: www.naswpress.org.
Cancer Survivor Toolbox ®: http://www.canceradvocacy.org/toolbox/.
This is a free, self-learning audio program that has been developed by leading cancer organizations to help people develop important skills to better meet and understand the challenges of their illness.
