Background:
Cancer incidence is increasing among Native Americans and the five year
survival rate for those diagnosed is lower than other racial groups in the
United States. In New Mexico (NM), Native Americans are diagnosed with later
stage cancer more than other races/ethnicities. NM is home to 22 tribes in rural
regions throughout the state. In order to address cancer concerns among tribal
communities a partnership between tribal health workers, the University of New
Mexico Center for Native American Health, UNM Cancer Research and Treatment
Center, and the National Cancer Institute’s partnership program was established
to:
1) Train tribal community health workers in the delivery of NCI’s Cancer
101 for American Indians/Alaska Natives; and
2) Modify the curriculum to build upon and reflect the unique cultural
strengths of NM tribes.
A cancer education training team comprised of community health
representatives (CHRs), UNM staff, and NCI partnership program staff are trained
in the delivery of the Cancer 101 curriculum to tribal communities.
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