C-NACHE Blog
Voices and news in cancer health equity
The C-NACHE blog represents a space where tribal and non-tribal cancer researchers, health leaders, policy advocates, and community members can share their updates and resources regarding their efforts in enhancing cancer health equity for Native American communities.
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Advancing Cancer Health Equity Through Data Innovation – The Navajo Cancer Dashboard
Discover how the Navajo Cancer Dashboard is revolutionizing health equity! This first-of-its-kind, tribal-led platform provides interactive insights into cancer trends, empowering Navajo communities with data to make informed decisions. Learn about the inspiring collaboration and innovation behind this groundbreaking tool. Click to explore its impact and next steps in advancing cancer care!
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Bridging Community and Cancer Equity: Joyce Tovar’s Impact on San Carlos Apache Cancer Care
Discover how Joyce Tovar, a dedicated health educator, CAB member, and tribal liaison, is transforming cancer care equity for the San Carlos Apache Tribe through her tireless efforts with the Community Cancer Services and Burden Assessments survey. Learn how her leadership and resilience are driving impactful change for Native communities. Read her inspiring story now!
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Join us for a closer look at the 2024 Arizona Intertribal Cancer Health Equity Forum (AICHEF), where attendees came together to tackle cancer disparities in Native communities. From policy advocacy to community-driven solutions, this powerful event highlighted the critical role of cultural knowledge and collaboration in reshaping cancer care. Explore inspiring panel discussions, innovative programs, and actionable takeaways that are paving the way for equity in tribal health. Click below to read more and discover how this forum is driving change!
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Promoting the Next Generation of Cancer Health Equity Warriors: C-NACHE at APHA 2024
C-NACHE proudly represented Indigenous cancer health equity efforts at the 2024 American Public Health Association (APHA) annual meeting and expo! Learn how the team spotlighted the NASWAC mentorship program, fostered meaningful connections, and shared impactful stories about advancing cancer research and advocacy for Native communities. Don’t miss the inspiring highlights and what’s next for C-NACHE at APHA 2025!
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National Cancer Survivor Month: Adrienne Chief’s Journey of Resilience and Hope
In honor of National Cancer Survivor Month, Adrienne Chief, a Diné woman from Arizona, shares her inspiring journey of battling Philadelphia positive – B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Diagnosed while 36 weeks pregnant, Adrienne’s story highlights the challenges of finding a stem cell match for Native Americans, the power of cultural practices, and the support of family and medical staff. Now, she advocates for leukemia awareness and better cancer care for Native communities, using her platform to inspire others. Adrienne’s resilience and hope offer a powerful message for all cancer survivors.
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New C-NACHE Research Project Begins
C-NACHE has launched a new research project led by Dr. Darold Joseph and Dr. Julie Armin, focused on improving breast and cervical cancer screening for Native American women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The project aims to enhance reproductive health knowledge and evaluate the impact of caregiver and institutional settings on screening access. It will also test the My Health My Choice program’s effectiveness and identify factors influencing screening uptake. This initiative seeks to address health inequities and improve cancer screening rates in an underserved population.
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Celebrating National Cancer Research Month this May
As we commemorate National Cancer Research Month this May, we are called to recognize not only the scientific strides made in understanding and combating cancer but also the disparities that persist, particularly among Indigenous communities. In this piece, we invite you to join us in amplifying the voices and experiences of two distinguished principal investigators, whose journeys through cancer research are imbued with a deep sense of cultural sensitivity and commitment to health equity.
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C-NACHE Director Dr. Nicolette Teufel-Shone and Senior Community Program Coordinator Jennifer Hudson presented at the World Indigenous Cancer Conference (WICC) in Naarm (Melbourne), Australia. Their presentation spotlighted the Center’s community-engaged strategies aimed at reducing cancer risk for Native American tribes in Arizona. Key highlights included the community advisory board (CAB), the annual Arizona Intertribal Cancer Health Equity Forum (AICHEF), and the Center’s multi-modal media initiatives. Their participation at WICC resulted in valuable connections and insights gained.
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C-NACHE CAB Perspective of INTLD
C-NACHE staff and members of the Community Advisory Board (CAB) attended the 29th annual Indian Nations and Tribes Legislative Day (INTLD) on Wednesday, January 10th at the Arizona capitol. CAB members who attended the event were asked to reflect on their experience at INTLD and provide their perspective.
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C-NACHE Presents at National Public Health Conference!
C-NACHE staff; Carmenlita Chief, Senior Project Coordinator, and Jennifer Hudson, Senior Community Program Coordinator, presented at the American Public Health Association (APHA) conference in Atlanta, Georgia in November. They presented during the “Stronger Together: Collaborations and Coordination in Public Health Efforts” session, hosted by the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Caucus. During this presentation, they showcased the multiple, integrated, and community-informed strategies that C-NACHE is carrying out to reduce cancer risk in Arizona tribal communities.
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C-NACHE Celebrates First Year of American Cancer Society Funded Grant
We completed a year of transformation with ACS grant support, advancing cancer equity in the state and creating real change in tribal communities through collaborative efforts. Thanks to our team and supporters, we express our gratitude for their invaluable support towards our mission. We will continue our efforts to positively impact the lives of those affected by cancer, building a brighter future with your support. Let’s celebrate this milestone and look forward to more years of collaboration and impact, making a real difference in the fight against cancer.