Economic Analysis of the Susan G. Komen Foundation - Philadelphia - Research Paper Example

In this case, public health initiatives to educate the public about the problem of breast cancer have been credited with early detection of cancer, and an increase in the survival rate in many areas. Susan G. Komen Philadelphia is one such public health initiative that brings survivors and activists together in the cause of raising awareness of breast cancer in the community. They are ‘dedicated to fulfilling the promise to save lives and to end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all, and energizing science to find the cures’ (Susan G.

Komen Philadelphia, para 1). In order to meet these life-changing objectives, the organization must be financially sound and ensure that financial resources are being used in only positive and productive ways. The aim of this paper is to quickly analyze this particular health initiative and determine the extent to which the community is investing in it is proving to benefit all residents of Philadelphia. Analysis Cancer research requires a great amount of both human and financial capital. Organizations that support a public health initiative depend on fiscally sound behaviour in order to continue their operations.

The Susan G. Komen organization is certainly no exception. They have proved that they are a responsible entity that is concerned about the work they have chosen to undertake. This was demonstrated recently with their choice of CEO to lead the organization through to the next level. Their new CEO, Judith A. Salerno, M.S., M.S., is nationally known for her work in the areas of health policy and research. She has been chosen to lead the national organization of Susan G. Komen, of which the Philadelphia chapter is a member. Susan G. Komen is the largest breast cancer organization in the world, with over 120 affiliates globally.

Community chapters are responsible for serving the needs of breast cancer research through community health and education programs (komenphiladelphia.org, para 2). Funding for breast cancer research has turned into a grassroots effort. Much of the financial capital needed to continue operations comes via various charity events. The Pink Ribbon Campaign, for example, is nationally recognized as a way to raise money and awareness of the need for breast cancer research. Susan G. Komen is the architect of this, and numerous other events like it.

The aim is not only to raise money but to educate as well. As such, the economic need for this particular health initiative is demonstrated. The financial and emotional cost of breast cancer is enormous. If it were not for Susan G. Komen Philadelphia, an already serious issue would be further exacerbated. The number of breast cancer patients alone were this initiative not in force, would likely be increasing. Research would be stagnated with little hope in sight. Cancer is a health concern that affects not just the individual, but also all of society.

Most people personally know someone who has been touched by this illness. Economically, we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines. Individuals might not be able to avoid getting breast cancer, but this health initiative serves to educate women about the warning signs and the importance of getting diagnosed early. This alone makes Susan G. Komen Philadelphia an important part of Philadelphia society, and certainly an organization that is worthy of further funding and consideration. Public health initiatives are designed to educate an uninformed populace.