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NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans proudly recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place annually in the month of October. This year the City celebrates the 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, those here in New Orleans as well as the healthcare community that is fighting to improve the response to and awareness of breast cancer.
“Continuing to support breast cancer awareness is vital, particularly as it relates to our current health climate as people are more reluctant to seek out regular screenings,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “This year on our annual month of awareness, our events are different, but the fight remains the same. Through the work of our New Orleans Health Department, City Council and other community partners, we continue to raise awareness and provide an avenue for residents to gain access to resources and support.”
“This year COVID prevents us from holding our typical day of awareness and on-site mammograms here at city hall; however, it’s still important to me that we highlight the importance of early detection, express our support for those fighting breast cancer currently, and celebrate the millions of survivors still with us today,” said City Council President Jason Williams.
“Every year in October we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness month to share vital information on treatment access, early detection, and how to support those women and men who are currently affected by breast cancer. Most importantly, we celebrate survivors and share their stories of hope. We have made strides as a community in prevention and treatment, and we encourage everyone to be educated and proactive with your breast health,” said Dr. Jennifer Avegno, Director, New Orleans Health Department.
This year, the U.S. County Health Rankings ranked Orleans Parish as 32nd out of 64 parishes in Louisiana, based on health outcomes and community health factors. This ranking has moved up four spots since 2019, which is a huge improvement. One of the main improvements listed in this report was an increase in the number of women who received mammograms. Though these trends do indicate an improvement, it is still important to encourage residents to get preventative screenings.
We encourage anyone seeking access to information or resources surrounding Breast Cancer to visit the New Orleans Health Department’s webpage here. Throughout the month of October the Health Department will increase messaging surrounding Breast Cancer awareness about how you can get involved, share your story of hope, and support those in need.
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