Hispanic women targeted with Health event

Promoting health among
Hispanic women
The event is called "Celebrating
Latina Women"
WWLP 21 Feb 2009

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A local organization is helping promote a healthier lifestyle among Hispanic women in our area. More than 25 women gathered at the Gandara Center in Springfield for an event called "Celebrating Latina Women".

Through discussions and activities, the goal is to educate women on the importance of good health practices. They're focusing on breast cancer prevention.

“It's an event to share stories with other women...information. It's a celebration,” said Maria Rodriguez of Springfield.

For some of the breast cancer survivors it is also an opportunity to inspire others. “I think this is very helpful for them and I wish there were more of these programs,” said Wilda Davila a breast cancer survivor.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among Hispanic women. Government statistics show that they have a breast cancer incidence rate of 95 per 100,000.

Health advocates say raising awareness is the key to prevention. We need early detection of breast cancer. Not because the Latina woman develop breast cancer more, but the late detection of breast cancer,” said event organizer Jeanette Rodriguez.

This is the first of a series of free monthly workshops sponsored by the Gandara Center, the Spanish American Union and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.