While appointments are encouraged, walk-in screenings are available. To make an appointment, call (985) 239-5739 or visit marybird.org/barbershopbash.
“Early detection is so important when it comes to treating cancer and improving health outcomes,” said Eryn Brannagan, Northshore regional manager of early detection and education, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “This is your opportunity to be proactive about your health. If you live in Hammond or in a nearby community, we hope you’ll come out and join us on February 17. Be sure to bring family members and friends with you. Aside from no-cost cancer screenings, we’ll have food, music and fun – something for everyone to enjoy!”
Mary Bird Perkins is hosting this event to raise awareness of the dangers of prostate cancer and colorectal cancer and the importance of getting screened – especially among African American men.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses for men, with roughly one in eight men being diagnosed in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. The National Cancer Institute cites Tangipahoa as the parish with the 17th highest rate (out of 64 parishes) of prostate cancer in the state. Furthermore, the parish ranks 10th when it comes to prostate cancer among African American men.
Colorectal cancer is also one of the most common cancers in both men and women. The 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 91% if detected early. However, only 38% of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center works with community partners to offer screening events in various settings, including barbershops. Barbershop owners are often seen as trusted messengers in their communities and their barbershops serve as comfortable, open discussion forums where men can discuss life and challenges, like health-related issues, among their peers. For Mary Bird Perkins, it’s about reaching men where they are.
This event is offered at no-cost to the community thanks to the generous support of the United Health Foundation. In 2023, the Foundation announced a three-year grant partnership with the Cancer Center to help increase access to prostate and colorectal cancer education, screening and support for historically underserved individuals across Louisiana.
“We are fortunate to have a wonderful partnership with the United Health Foundation – an organization committed to improving access to cancer screenings,” said Renea Duffin, vice president, cancer support and outreach, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “And, thanks to local partners like Vogue Salon here in Hammond, members of our community can access screenings in a convenient location, close to home. After all, we know that when it comes to beating cancer, it takes each and every one of us working together to make a real and long-lasting impact.”
For more information about this event or to learn more about other upcoming Barbershop Bash events, visit marybird.org/barbershopbash.
About Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is Louisiana’s largest cancer care organization and has been leading the fight against cancer for more than 50 years. Founded in Baton Rouge in 1971 by a group of community leaders, the Cancer Center now serves every region of Louisiana and communities across southwest Mississippi. With the most expansive team of highly-trained oncologists leveraging innovative therapies and technologies, Mary Bird Perkins is offering the most personalized treatment options available in the Gulf South. The Cancer Center’s emphasis on community-based care allows patients to access these resources close to home. From early detection through our innovative Prevention on the Go screening and education program, to diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer, Mary Bird Perkins offers a wide array of individualized support services to improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer. For more information, visit marybird.org.