Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
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TAHLEQUAH, OK - Hundreds of women have survived cancer because of a Cherokee Nation early cancer detection program, according to a new study.

The Cherokee Nation Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program (BCCEDP) has provided more than 7,600 mammograms and 5,300 Pap tests for Cherokee women since it began in 1996. Through the program, over 80% of breast cancer cases and over 92% of cervical cases have been detected early. Early detection is the key to successful treatment of these breast and cervical cancer. Even with the program, breast cancer is by far the leading cause of death among Cherokee women.

The Cherokee Nation operates the program under a grant from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The CDC’s report highlights the effectiveness of the Cherokee Nation program.

"The report presents an in-depth description and analysis of the program, including development, implementation, successful strategies, and evaluation", said Regina 'Ustee' Grass, who, with Julie Erb, director of the Cherokee Nation Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program, reviewed the report for the Cherokee Nation.

CDC staff conducted a site visit took place June 26 through June 30, 2000, interviewing more than two dozen people, including program staff, clinicians, and administrators all in Cherokee Nation Health Service clinics. In addition, the Cherokee Nation and CDC staff held focus groups with Cherokee women in Jay, Evening Shade, Vian, and Tahlequah and Stilwell.

Cherokee Nation is one of twelve sites currently funded to provide comprehensive breast and cervical cancer screening. Other study sites included: Arctic Slope Native Association in Alaska; Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, South Dakota; South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency in Washington; and Southcentral Foundation in Alaska.

A second report will present the findings from a cross-site analysis of Cherokee Nation Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, along with the other CDC/BCCEDP tribal programs around the United States.

To review the report, or for more information on the Cherokee Nation Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection program, call the program office, phone: 918-458-4491.