This article is about a panel at Health Journalism 2008.
Sheppard's presentation
P. Parker from University of Georgia blogged about how personal the topic is.
By Thomas Cullen
University of Missouri
Vanessa Sheppard, Ph.D., of the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center said there are more than 2 million survivors of breast cancer in the United States, but "what happens after the diagnosis?" She said the period after a diagnosis is important and that there are few minority women focused intervention programs.
She gave a brief overview of breast cancer, highlighted disparities for ethnic minorities, discussed the relevance of socio-cultural factors and provided examples of interventions.
Most women could not accurately describe their diagnosis despite speaking with professionals. But the more they know about treatment, the better their adherence to the treatment plan. Sheppard also talked about the importance of spirituality in African American women being treated for breast cancer.
Sheppard founded Sisters Informing Sisters, which provides "survivor coaches" who can ask questions, help with basic terminology, help develop listening skills and know the options.
Survivor-to-survivor sessions are not normally held in medical settings and they focus on questions, getting records and support.
Sheppard said that "Education is definitely the key" and breast cancer is nothing to be ashamed of.
