Reaching out to neighbors
Elizabeth Gonzalez Suarez leads a training at a local housing development.
We often forget that two-thirds of cancer deaths in the United States are linked to lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. There is a great need for effective cancer prevention in Boston – and almost everywhere. The opportunity for such efforts is immense, as is the amount of work that needs to be done. Being at Dana-Farber has enabled me to partner with local organizations to bring evidence-based cancer prevention programs to people in our community.
Currently, I am working with local housing developments to implement a colon cancer prevention program that involves increased screening, physical activity, and daily use of a multivitamin.
It is satisfying to see the impact we are making in people's lives, to know that residents are going for screenings and losing weight as a result of increased physical activity. I know many people are grateful for the work we are doing.
– Elizabeth Gonzalez Suarez
