Whittier Street Health Center recognizes February as National Cancer Prevention Month. According to Whittier’s partner in cancer care, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, minorities are often diagnosed and treated at a later stage, leading to higher mortality rates. A historical disparity in access to regular screenings, education, diagnosis and follow-up contributes to the unequal status quo.
In 2023 45% of cancer related deaths were attributed to modifiable risk factors. Prevention offers the most-cost effective strategy for the control of cancer.

In order to significantly reduce cancer risk people should make efforts to:
• Quit Smoking/Exposure to smoke
• Maintain a healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit alcohol intake
• Protect your skin from Ultraviolet radiation exposure
• Practice safe sex

Making healthier choices is imperative to lowering the risk of common forms of cancer. However, screening tests are also a valuable tool for early detection of cancers when treatment works best.

Whittier’s Patient navigator program connects cancer patients with Patient Navigators to support patients especially medically underinsured ones, through the barriers that often impede their ability to obtain care. These barriers are not just financial; they can also be logistical, emotional and even cultural. And in today’s healthcare environment, these barriers often go unaddressed.

The patient navigator program provides:

• Psychological and social support
• Translation services
• Health Insurance enrollment
• Transportation services

For more information regarding cancer screenings please contact (617) 632-5335.