ATHENS, Ohio -- For the second consecutive year, Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine's Community Service Program has been awarded a grant from the Columbus chapter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. In addition, the foundation, known for its "Race for the Cure" program, has doubled the amount of last year's grant.

The grant money will allow the CSP to continue its breast cancer-screening program as a part of the Healthy Adult Project in Southeastern Ohio. Since its inception in 1994, CSP's Breast and Cervical Cancer Project has provided pap tests and breast examinations free of charge to underinsured and uninsured women 40 and over; and free mammograms to uninsured and underinsured women 50 and over, in a 10-county area in Southeastern Ohio. A major aim of the program is to heighten awareness of the importance of regular breast self-exams as well as regular exams by health-care providers. Also, the grant will help continue the use of CSP's Mobile Health Van in conjunction with the BCCP, which has benefited more than 200 women since it arrived in May 2001.

"This grant is very important to the program because it allows us to provide the services of a nurse and a nurse practitioner," said Kathy Trace, OU-COM director of community and clinical services. "The increase in the amount of the grant is great news for women in Southeastern Ohio."

The Komen Foundation is credited as the leading catalyst for the fight against breast cancer, raising more than $300 million since its inception in 1982. The foundation's mission is to eradicate breast cancer through advanced research, regular screenings and continual education. Named for breast cancer victim Susan Komen and founded by her sister, Nancy Brinker, the organization has more than 70,000 volunteers working out of 114 affiliates throughout the United States.

For more information about the program or to schedule an appointment call (740) 593-2432 or 1-800-844-2654.