Health Disparities Advisory Group Announced

The American Society of Breast Surgeons is pleased to announce the creation of a Health Disparities Advisory Group to address inequalities in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer patients. Co-chaired by Kathie-Ann Joseph, MD, and Jane Mendez, MD, the advisory group will work to identify best practices and strategies to fight disparities in the management of breast disease in medically underserved populations. “We will also provide guidance to the Society to assure there is diverse and equitable representation throughout the organization and its activities,” comments Dr. Joseph.

In its Position Statement on Screening Mammography, the Society acknowledges the presence of breast cancer outcome disparities in African American women, who face a disproportionately high risk of breast cancer mortality. Jill Dietz, MD, President of The American Society of Breast Surgeons, comments that this is an important issue being addressed by the Society. “The Society stands ready to affect change and will advocate for research, education and treatment to decrease healthcare inequities impacting breast cancer patients.”

Health Disparities Advisory Group Mission

The mission of American Society of Breast Surgeons Health Disparities Advisory Group is to provide guidance to the Society to assure there is diverse and equitable representation throughout the organization and its activities.

Health Disparities Advisory Group Function

1. Serve as a resource to the American Society of Breast Surgeons

2. Collaborate with other committees to provide additional perspectives and guidance in breast health equity and disparities whether in terms of educational resources or committee member recommendations

3. Assist the ASBrS to identify best practices on topics related to management of medically underserved populations, and leadership/lectureship topics related to diversity and inclusion

Questions?

Questions about the Health Disparities Advisory Group may be addressed to Tekoah White, twhite@breastsurgeons.org, and Laura Randel, lrandel@breastsurgeons.org.

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