One of the tragic realities about who cancer strikes in South Carolina, and how often, is this: African-Americans make up 30 percent of the state’s population, but their cancer rate is nearly twice that of Caucasians –- and they are more likely to die from the disease.
Learn more about cancer disparity statistics in South Carolina. The underlying cause of this disparity is largely unknown. But the Hollings Cancer Center has emerged as a leader in trying to eliminate the gap through leading-edge basic and clinical research, multi-disciplined patient care approaches, and an unwavering focus on community screening and awareness programs. The Hollings Cancer Center Cancer Disparities Program, led by Dr. Marvella E. Ford, brings critical resources to those who need it them most, and its leadership advocates for policies and services that focus on the disproportionate health burden facing minority populations in our state. Program components include: Mobile Health Unit. The Hollings Cancer Center Mobile Health Unit brings screening, prevention education, early diagnosis, and counseling to South Carolinians who live in rural coastal regions where the lack of transportation, services, and awareness is an obstacle to adequate cancer detection. Learn more about the Mobile Health Unit. Patient Navigation Program. Focusing on breast and prostate cancers, this innovative program provides medically underserved men and women with seamless access to a range of essential services. Learn more about the Patient Navigation Program. Cancer Disparities Advisory Board. The Hollings Cancer Center has created a panel to assist our outreach activities to underserved populations statewide. The Board helps guide our program with community-based strategies that focus on reducing cancer rates and mortality, and is a strong and visible advocate for policies that shrink the disparities in detection, diagnosis, and access to care. Learn more about the Cancer Disparities Advisory Board. Hollings Cancer Center is undertaking a comprehensive, targeted community awareness program that delivers important messages to at-risk populations. Learn more about these initiatives.  Public Service Announcements
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