Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about spreading awareness, education, support, and the importance of life-saving screening to women nationwide. Learn more about our partnership with the Kapiʻolani Medical Center and how you can support this wonderful organization.
It’s estimated that in the United States, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer within their lifetime.
We are honored to have partnered with the Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children in the fight against breast cancer since 2012. The only center of its kind in the state, Kapiʻolani strives to provide the highest level of women's cancer care in Hawaiʻi, where a woman's support network of family and friends can be an integral part of the treatment and healing process.
The Kapiʻolani Women’s Center is the first Oʻahu facility to be named a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the doctors who specialize in mammography and breast diagnostics from the American College of Radiology.
We sat down with Dr. Jami Fukui, an oncologist at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children and associate professor at the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center, to highlight the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer.
Gehron Burkholder: How long have you been at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children and what makes your job special?
Dr. Jami Fukui: Since 2017. My patients at Kapiʻolani Medical Center. I feel so privileged to meet these amazing women at such a vulnerable time in their lives. Their strength and insights during such a challenging time motivate me and fuel my passion for breast cancer research and clinical trials.
GB: Can you speak to the importance of getting a mammogram?
Dr. F: Early detection is key. Get your mammograms! According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection includes monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.
GB: How does breast cancer affect women in Hawaiʻi?
Dr. F: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in Hawai‘i. In fact, the state has a higher incident rate than the national average. Early screenings are essential, yet we know there are health disparities that exist in our community. At the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center, we research ways to address barriers to breast cancer screening and breast cancer care.
GB: Anything else you’d like to add?
Dr. F: Clinical trials also provide access to care options that may become the standard in the future. Our national guidelines recommend that every patient be evaluated for a clinical trial. We believe it provides the best care for our patients and helps to eliminate disparities in cancer care.
Your purchase of our 2022 Think Pink Collection enables us to support the Kapi'olani Medical Center!
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