Early Detection: Women, Cancer, and Awareness Campaigns in the Twentieth-Century United States [Paperback]

Kirsten E. Gardner (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 22, 2006

Dispelling the common notion that American female cancer activism is a post-1970s phenomenon, Kirsten E. Gardner traces women's cancer education campaigns back to the early twentieth century. Focusing on breast cancer, but using research on cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers as well, Gardner's examination of films, publications, health fairs, and archival materials shows that women have promoted early cancer detection since the inception of the American Society for the Control of Cancer in 1913. While informing female audiences about cancer risks, these early activists also laid the groundwork for the political advocacy and patient empowerment movements of recent decades.

By the 1930s there were 300,000 members of the Women's Field Army working together with women's clubs. They held explicit discussions about the risks, detection, and incidence of cancer and by midcentury were offering advice about routine breast self-exams and annual Pap smears. The feminist health movement of the 1970s heralded a departure for female involvement in women's health activism, Gardner explains. Women continued to encourage early detection but simultaneously demanded increased attention to gender and medical research, patient experiences, and causal factors. Our understanding of today's vibrant feminist health movement is enriched by Gardner's work recognizing women's roles in grassroots educational programs throughout the twentieth century and their creation of supportive networks that endure today.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A well-written piece of high quality historical scholarship which addresses a multitude of readers."
—Women's History Magazine

"Sensitive . . . [an] excellent and innovative study."
— Register of the Kentucky Historical Society

"Weaves a rich tapestry documenting the remarkable efforts of women themselves, acting through twentieth-century social and professional networks, to disseminate scientific knowledge about the diagnosis . . . and treatment options for the major types of reproductive cancer afflicting women. . . . Makes a notable contribution to the history of women and health, health education, as well as the history of cancer and disease."
— Journal of the History of Medicine

"This solid, focused book merits reading."
— Social History of Medicine

"An exciting contribution to the history of women and health, the history of health education, and the history of disease."
Susan L. Smith, author of Japanese American Midwives: Culture, Community, and Health Politics, 1880-1950

From the Inside Flap

Dispelling the common notion that American female cancer activism is a post-1970s phenomenon, Gardner traces women's cancer education campaigns back to the inception of the American Society of the Control of Cancer in 1913. Focusing on breast cancer, but using research on cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers as well, Gardner's examination of films, publications, health fairs, and archival materials shows that women have long promoted early cancer detection. While informing female audiences about cancer risks, these early activists also laid the groundwork for the political advocacy and patient empowerment movements of recent decades.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press (May 22, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0807856827
• ISBN-13: 978-0807856826
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #159,890 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #58 in Books > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Aging > Cancer > Breast Cancer

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