The iconic cyclist launched the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign in South Africa with a visit to fellow cancer survivors at Cape Town's Groote Schuur Hospital.
LIVESTRONG selected South Africa as a target country for its collaborative work to combat stigma because research revealed: between 1993 and 2005, deaths due to all cancers in women in South Africa increased by more than 80%; between 1993 and 2005, deaths due to all cancers in men in South Africa increased by 45%; and rates of cervical cancer incidence in South Africa are among the highest on the continent.
Over the course of this year, LIVESTRONG will launch two major efforts to fight cancer in South Africa:
- A nationwide initiative to reduce the stigma associated with cancer and raise awareness of the tragic toll the disease takes throughout the world. By partnering with local cancer organizations and encouraging survivors to tell their stories, LIVESTRONG -- in conjunction with its accomplished South African partners -- will offer the knowledge and resources they need to successfully confront fears and misconceptions.
- Patient empowerment initiative, in collaboration with the American Cancer Society and outstanding local organizations, will bring together decision makers, clinicians, media, advocates and patients to work towards a system of care that puts the patient first. This effort will turn statistics into stories, bring visibility to gaps in cancer control and highlight the need for cancer to be a stronger priority on a country's health agenda.
For additional information on Lance Armstrong’s LIVESTRONG, please visit: