2008-04-21 23:02:24 -

www.cancer.org/espanol - American Cancer Society Claire Greenwell, 404-417-5883 Media Relations Specialist claire.greenwell@cancer.org or Creative Civilization Melissa Black, 210-227-1999, ext. 137 Public Relations MBlack@creativecivilization.com The American Cancer Society today announced a major national Spanish language public awareness outreach effort, the "Estamos Contigo" campaign. The multi-media public service campaign is an effort to increase the

level of awareness and use of the American Cancer Society as the best resource for information, assistance, and support when facing cancer among the U.S. Hispanic population.

Recent research indicates that the Hispanic population has a greater than average chance of being diagnosed with cancer at a later, less treatable stage of the disease, and that Hispanics are less likely than the general population to survive five years after diagnosis. Cancer is the second leading cause of death among Hispanics, and nearly one-half of Hispanic women and one-third of Hispanic men in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

"In addition to funding lifesaving research, the American Cancer Society provides a full range of free programs and services to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers," said Elmer Huerta, M.D., M.P.H., national volunteer president, American Cancer Society.

"The Estamos Contigo campaign aims to make these programs and services available to the 14 percent of the U.S. population who identify themselves as Hispanic."

"Estamos Contigo" translates to "We are With You" - a message that highlights the Society's dedication to providing information and resources to all people facing cancer. The public service announcements consist of 60-second radio and 30-second television Spanish and English language spots, as well as print, outdoor and online ads.

The public service announcements touch on the kind of help and information that people may be seeking throughout a cancer experience, and encourage viewers to contact the Society at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org/espanol. Both resources provide free and confidential cancer information, access to day-to-day help, emotional support, transportation, lodging, financial assistance, available clinical trials, and many other free programs and services. Individuals who call can be connected to a trained bilingual Cancer Information Specialist who will provide accurate and easy-to-understand information about the disease, and what kinds of help and support are available.

Through the generous support of many Spanish language media partners, "Estamos Contigo" is initially scheduled to run in the top 10 Hispanic markets through the fall of this year. The public service announcements will be seen and heard on Univision, Telemundo, Azteca, LAT TV, ABC Radio, and Lotus Entravision Radio, among others. Print, outdoor and online outlets will include People En Espanol, Hispanic Magazine, QuePasa.com, Matt.org and Clear Channel Outdoor.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

"Estamos Contigo" Campaign Seeks to Close Cancer Disparities by
Highlighting Availability of Information, Day-to-Day Help, Emotional
Support