Co-founder and advocate Julie Greenbaum talks about how the narrative surrounding this deadly disease must evolve

CVLUX How does F Cancer function differently from most cancer organizations?

JG F Cancer fills a gap in the cancer space by addressing prevention and early detection to avoid late stage cancer diagnoses and the need for treatment. We don’t fund research but fund on the ground interventions and education to promote preventative practices. We also provide much needed emotional and concrete support to our community once diagnosed in a way that resonates across the board.

CVLUX How has the mission of F Cancer evolved since its origins?

JG Our mission continues to increase focus on the inequities in the cancer space and closing that gap for our community.

CVLUX What makes F Cancer’s approach so effective?

JG We are very much focused on our community and using digital platforms and tools to push our programs around education and early detection! Knowledge is power.

CVLUX Tell us about F Cancer’s resources and programs.

JG We provide the following resources:

· Careline for those going through cancer treatment who need guidance around emotional and financial support, second opinions, and other resources.

· Support groups for LGBTQ plus individuals with cancer.

· Food delivery for Spanish speaking food insecure individuals in Los Angeles.

· Tattoo services for women post mastectomy.

· Education on how to prevent and find cancer early.

· Clinic programs that provide support for HPV vaccination to prevent HPV-associated cancers and support for colon, breast, cervical cancer, and lung cancer screening.

CVLUX Considering that cancer effects more than just the diagnosed party, how does F Cancer address the psychological component of cancer with both patients and caregivers?

JG Our care line and educational materials and social media community play a major in this.

CVLUX In the field of cancer research and awareness, what are the biggest advancements that you’ve witnessed since co-founding F Cancer?

JG

Advances in cancer genetics.
New cancer screening tests, changes in recommendations for who needs them, and preventions strategies.
Increase data on high-risk populations by cancer.
New drugs for various cancers and use of DNA sequencing.
Personalized therapy and targeted drug options.

CVLUX What have been some of F Cancer’s most pivotal moments thus far?

JG Just the overall continued growth of our educational programs and seeing that we’ve had success and play a role in changing the behavior of a generation to positively affect health outcomes.

CVLUX What still needs to change in the realm of cancer treatment, research, and awareness?

JG Anyone can get cancer. However, our age, race, gender, and wealth impact our experiences with cancer, including how we protect ourselves against cancer, how early we catch cancer, and how effective treatment is at beating our cancer. Across all types of cancer, race matters.

Cancer Stats

Black men have the highest cancer incidence and mortality rates compared to any other racial or ethnic group.

White women have the highest cancer incidence rates compared to any other racial or ethnic group. Conversely, Black women die from cancer at higher rates than white women.

Asian and Pacific Islanders are the least likely racial or ethnic group to be diagnosed with and also to die from cancer.

Latinx people are the second least likely to be diagnosed with cancer, but cancer is a leading cause of death among Latinx people.

More research, resources, and targeted education must be geared towards communities of color.

To learn more about F Cancer’s mission to prevent and detect, as well as access information about life with and after cancer, visit www.letsfcancer.com.