Everyone was friendly, helpful, and fluent in English. Several people were trained in the United States: the staff includes a Harvard grad, a Brandeis grad, and an American University sophomore.
The JBCP was started by several organizations, including the King Hussein Cancer Foundation, Jordan's Ministry of Health, and USAID’s Private Sector Project for Women’s Health, to develop and implement a comprehensive nationwide program addressing all aspects of breast cancer detection and education. See an overview here.
One of their major initiatives is a public awareness campaign. They developed their own twist on the traditional pink ribbon symbol for breast cancer awareness, using the traditional Jordanian hatta pattern. Their symbol has been used in other countries as well, and may become used throughout the Middle East.Breast cancer is by far the most prevalent form of cancer in Jordan, and the majority of cases are diagnosed when the disease is in the later stages and the survival rates are low. The median diagnosis age in Jordan is about 50, far younger than Western countries. Jordanian women have little access to mammography screening services; mammograms are only available for diagnostic tests after symptoms have presented. Furthermore, there is a shortage of mammography equipment and highly-skilled radiologists.
JBCP works with multiple organizations to increase access to mammography services across the country and provide training for health care professionals. They coordinate the donation, purchase, and installation of mammography equipment. They also partner with local organizations who provide community outreach and education about breast cancer and self-exams, going door-to-door where necessary, and coordinate trainings to make those organizations more effective. My research will allow me to study all the different parts of their operations.
Tomorrow, I will conduct the first of many, many, many interviews. I can't wait.
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