Hesperian Health Guides
Working for Change
Many deaths could be avoided if more cancers were found and treated earlier and if people better understood causes of cancer and worked to prevent it. Communities can organize to:
- screen for more cancers in local and rural health services.
- train and equip local health workers to do visual inspection for cancer of the cervix, Pap tests, cryotherapy, and breast exams.
- educate people about the causes of cancer and how to lessen the chance of getting cancer. This includes how we live our lives as well as community efforts to reduce pollution and cancer-causing chemicals in our environment.
- set up support groups for people with cancer, to share experience, information and tips for managing illness and treatment.
- make testing and treatment for cancer available to all.
It is also important for everyone to:
- learn to examine their breasts for lumps or unusual signs.
- learn and help others learn about the warning signs of cancer.
- not be afraid of people with cancer. Treat them with kindness and compassion.
This page was updated:13 Nov 2023