Empowering Self-advocacy for Breast Health: A Successful Educational Campaign on Breast Cancer Risk and Screening Recommendations

Matthew M Culbert; Oluwadamilola T Oladeru; Eric D Brooks; Teena Burchianti; Daniela Martir; Valerie Vázquez; Hope Boucher; Armita Motaparthi; Julie A Bradley

doi:10.1097/COC.0000000000001219

Empowering Self-advocacy for Breast Health: A Successful Educational Campaign on Breast Cancer Risk and Screening Recommendations

Am J Clin Oncol. 2025 Jul 3. doi: 10.1097/COC.0000000000001219. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Matthew M Culbert¹, Oluwadamilola T Oladeru², Eric D Brooks³, Teena Burchianti⁴, Daniela Martir¹, Valerie Vázquez⁵, Hope Boucher⁶, Armita Motaparthi⁷, Julie A Bradley¹

Affiliations

¹ Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL.
² Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL.
³ Premier Radiation Oncology Associates, Clearwater, FL.
⁴ University of Florida Health Proton Therapy Institute, Jacksonville, FL.
⁵ HCA Florida Lake City Surgical Specialists, Lake City, FL.
⁶ James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN.
⁷ Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India.

PMID: 40607985
DOI: 10.1097/COC.0000000000001219

Abstract

Objectives: Breast cancer (BC) remains a critical public health issue where early detection significantly improves outcomes. Despite advancements, disparities in screening awareness and access persist, particularly in underserved populations. This study evaluates a comprehensive, technology-driven educational campaign designed to empower individuals to advocate for their breast health, bridging gaps in knowledge and accessibility.

Methods: Between 10/1/22 and 12/2/22, a multiplatform campaign was conducted with IRB approval. The initiative utilized traditional media, including televised ads and educational videos, and digital tools such as a mobile app and website in English and Spanish. Central to this campaign was an interactive risk calculator, offering personalized BC screening recommendations. Data collection included user demographics, platform engagement metrics, and the identification of high-risk individuals. A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted using campaign budget data.

Results: The campaign reached 673,920 individuals through televised ads and 152,672 impressions by digital ads. The website garnered 930 unique impressions, while the app recorded 2752 downloads across 131 countries. The risk calculator was completed 637 times, identifying 72 high-risk individuals. Follow-up data revealed ongoing engagement, with the calculator used an additional 1468 times. The cost per conversion was $1.62, and the cost to identify a high-risk individual was $209.27, demonstrating remarkable cost-efficiency.

Conclusions: This campaign successfully increased BC awareness and early detection efforts, leveraging a cost-effective, multiplatform approach. The integration of personalized tools like the risk calculator underscores the potential of digital interventions in health education. Future efforts should build on this model to further enhance reach and health outcomes.

Keywords: breast cancer; educational campaign; health education; screening recommendations; self-advocacy.