4 out of 10 African American women are getting the recommended screening for breast cancer.

On May 3rd, the American Cancer Society joins the National Council of Negro Women, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Nebraska CARES, Super Saver and Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in sponsoring a free program to promote breast health called Protect Your Health Heritage.

The program addresses the changing outlook for African American women. Registration for the event begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Center for People in Need in Lincoln.

The program features a story of survivorship from Janet Goodman-Banks, JeanAnn Fischer, MS, RD talking about healthy living and Dr. Derrick Anderson delivering the keynote address entitled, Breast Cancer: Changing the Outlook for African American Women.

A short Q&A will follow and door prizes will be given at the end.

"This event is going to be extremely beneficial to women in Lincoln," commented Annie Stokes, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the National Council of Negro Women. "Recent studies have shown that African American women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age and a later stage than Caucasian women. In Lancaster County, the percentage of African American women who are 40 and over being screened is less than 50. That is a number that needs to increase and this program will help to educate women about the benefits of screening and how screening saves lives."

Registration is required for the free event. To register call Telephone Line to Care at 219-7000.