Fundación Ortiz Gurdián (FOG)

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Cervical cancer is the leading cause of death for Nicaraguan women ages 30-60.  The incidence of cervical cancer in Nicaragua is approximately four times that in the United States, and the death rate is approximately nine times greater.  The difference in these outcomes is the result of insufficient access to gynecological screening and early treatment.  Precancerous cervical lesions are often present for many years before cancer develops. If discovered in time, these lesions can be treated easily and inexpensively. Tragically, many women in Nicaragua are unable to access timely care due to barriers that include limited finances and cultural stigma. 

 Austin Samaritans has worked since its inception in 2007 to improve cancer care for Nicaraguan women.  It has provided substantial donations of medical equipment and supplies to medical clinics and to Hospital Bertha Calderon, the only public hospital in Nicaragua caring for indigent women with cancer. 

In 2009, Austin Samaritans joined with Fundación Ortiz Gurdián (FOG), a Nicaraguan non-profit, that was addressing breast cancer in women whose annual family income is less than $2,100 and who are not covered by governmental insurance. Women found to have breast cancer receive comprehensive treatment that can include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and/or radiotherapy. Austin Samaritans facilitated the addition of screening and treatment of cervical cancer at the clinic. Women found to have precancerous lesions of the cervix undergo treatment of the lesions, which can save their lives. 

 In 2023, FOG provided the following services:  

  • Screen 1,122 women for breast cancer. 

  • Perform 779 PAP smears. 

  • Initiate chemotherapy or hormone therapy for 85 patients. 

  • Perform 21 cervical biopsies. 

  • Perform 272 ambulatory breast cancer procedures. 

  • Perform 53 breast cancer surgeries. 

Once women complete their treatment, they are encouraged by FOG to enroll in classes to become Promotoras (Promoters/Recruiters.)  As Promotoras, they spread the word in their communities and families and encourage women to be screened for these two types of cancer. These same women help distribute the bono saludos (coupons enabling a woman to have a free screening for breast and cervical cancer at the FOG clinic)   

FOG works with groups in outlying communities to bring women in for screening and treatment. Promotoras organize transportation for groups of women from other cities to come to the clinic in Managua. Members of FOG’s strong women’s cancer support group often provide rooms for patients from outside Managua receiving treatment.  

 Austin Samaritans continues to help fund the cervical cancer screening and treatment program at Fundación Ortiz Gurdián (FOG).