Ask Me

A Good Idea

Description

Idaho's Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, Women's Health Check, developed an innovative way to teach women about breast cancer using a visual tool. The program is called "Ask Me," and it uses wooden beads to illustrate the various tumor sizes that can be detected by mammography. This visual image helps women understand the importance of getting regular exams and demonstrates how early a tumor can be detected, even when it is very small.

Goal / Mission

The goal or this program is to improve early detection of breast cancer through health education using a visual tool.

Results / Accomplishments

The program was launched in conjunction with McCall Memorial Hospital, the Idaho Breast and Cervical Cancer Alliance, and the American Cancer Society. Sorority groups, cancer centers, Idaho's Hispanic women's group, local jewelry stores, and health insurance companies also implemented the program. By using a visual aid to support its early detection message, this program illustrates the importance of early detection and screening and demonstrates the impact that a visual aid can have on promoting prevention.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Women's Health Check
Primary Contact
daho Department of Health and Welfare
Division of Health
450 West State Street, Sixth Floor
Boise, Idaho 83720-0036
(208) 334-5505
http://www.bhp-whc.state.id.us/
Topics
Health / Cancer
Health / Women's Health
Health / Prevention & Safety
Organization(s)
Women's Health Check
Source
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Steps to a Healthier U.S.
Date of publication
2003
Location
Idaho
For more details
Target Audience
Women