Wednesday, November 18, 2020

ACS hosts Latinos Contra el Cancer Fest on Facebook, focusing on cancer in the Latinx community

 

This first of its kind event gathered celebrities, musical guests, and friends to celebrate Latinx culture and brought vital attention to the unique needs of the Latino community when it comes to the prevention and treatment of cancer, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Latinos Contra el Cancer Fest, a Facebook Live bilingual program emceed by Elva Saray of Telemundo 52's Acceso Total show, took place on Nov. 12.  

The event included a pre-show panel discussion on health equity and a DJ dance after party. Ricky Rubio from the Phoenix Suns, a cooking demo with Chef Aaron Sanchez, performances by Jose Alberto "El Canario", Nancy Sanchez, Jay Ruiz, Cynthia Lee Fontaine, and more were part of the program.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in the Latinx community. Latino communities face vast health disparities and worse cancer outcomes due to lack of access to screening and safe, comprehensive care. For many Latinx families having open conversations about cancer is taboo. However, being transparent about how to prevent, screen for, and treat cancer can help improve and save lives.  

"We must stem the tide of cancer in our community," said Carmen Guerra, MD, scientific officer of the American Cancer Society Board of Directors. "The American Cancer Society's vision of a world without cancer requires that we attack the cancers that disproportionately affect Latinos and help everyone receive the screenings and care that lead to better health and better outcomes." 

*Shared from MySocietySource.

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