Posted 05/17/2007

Hebert, Brandt among group honored for helping
 in the battle against cancer

Drs. James Hebert and Heather Brandt of the Arnold School of Public Heath are among four professionals and one organization honored recently for their work in cancer control by the South Carolina Cancer Alliance.

Hebert, a professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the Arnold School and principal investigator of the South Carolina Cancer Disparities Community Network (SCCDCN), was honored for his research work in addressing health disparities in South Carolina and leading community-based research projects. The alliance noted his commitment to conducting research within the state to understand why rates for major diseases are much higher here than elsewhere. “If we are not willing or able to understand — let alone solve — our problems, no one will be able to understand or solve them for us,” he said.

Brandt, a co-investigator at the SCCDCN, was honored for her extensive work in cancer prevention. The alliance praised her ability to translate scientific research findings into terms that community members can understand. She works primarily with faith-based and community organizations to promote awareness about cervical cancer. She also has provided information to lawmakers about the HPV vaccine and developed resources for women in prison.

Others honored for their efforts were:

 • Former S.C. Department of Health and Human Services Director Robbie Kerr, was honored for advocacy and policy work. Kerr was instrumental in allowing South Carolinians older than 50 who are on Medicaid to have colonoscopies covered under the program. He also worked to secure funding so women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer could get needed treatment through the federal Best Chance Network, which serves low-income women.

• Gastroenterologist Dr. March Seabrook, was honored for work in early detection. Described as “a leader in the fight against colorectal cancer,” Seabrook was cited for his work to promote colorectal cancer awareness especially among under-served communities and to educate lawmakers about the importance of screening.

The Palmetto Health Comprehensive Breast Health Center was recognized for patient care that includes programs aimed at addressing not only the clinical needs of women with cancer, but also their physical, emotional and spiritual needs. Their patient navigation program, for example, links women to support groups and resources and tries to provide answers before women ask the questions.

The South Carolina Cancer Alliance is an independent, statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the impact of cancer on South Carolinians. For more information, go to www.sccanceralliance.org.