Honoring National Doctor’s Day: Celebrating Tito, a Veteran Lemonista and Public Health Advocate
On National Doctor’s Day, we celebrate physicians who go beyond clinical care to make a lasting impact on public health. One such doctor is Tito F. Alvarado Álava, a veteran Lemonista, physician, and public health specialist dedicated to breast health advocacy. His journey from aspiring OB-GYN to public health leader has been shaped by his commitment to education, prevention, and community empowerment.
Tito’s Journey: From Medicine to Public Health Advocacy
Tito discovered Know Your Lemons in 2012 while still in high school, long before becoming a Lemonista in 2020. Initially aspiring to be an OB-GYN, he soon realized that prevention and education were key to improving survival rates. This realization led him to public health, where he could make a broader impact through advocacy.
Born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Tito is fluent in Spanish, English, and Turkish. Thanks to his multilingual skills and Know Your Lemons' interactive materials, he has been able to educate diverse communities on breast health through in-person workshops, Zoom sessions, and even hybrid classes. One hybrid class in particular he taught 200 people in person while simultaneously, teaching a zoom class as well. However, Tito is anything but camera shy, he lived out his dream of being a social media influencer and did an Instagram LIVE teaching session back in October for breast cancer awareness month.
Making an Impact in Breast Health Education
Tito is passionate about debunking breast health myths. Using Know Your Lemons’ evidence-based infographics, he ensures that communities receive accurate and empowering information.
“My goal is to empower my audience by providing accurate knowledge, helping them build confidence in what they learn, and debunking these myths in an engaging and accessible manner.”
One of his most impactful moments came in 2022 in a rural Ecuadorian community. A young girl and her parents mistook a serious symptom for a minor rash, but Tito suspected breast cancer. Using the Know Your Lemons flipchart, he explained the symptoms and referred her to an oncological hospital for proper care. This experience reinforced the life-saving power of education and early detection.
Bridging Medicine, Public Health, and Leadership
Tito’s commitment to systemic change led him to earn multiple advanced degrees. In 2024, he completed a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) from Hacettepe University in Türkiye, a Master of Public Health (MPH), and a Certificate in Health Care Management from East Tennessee State University. His education allows him to bridge the gap between patient care and healthcare policy, ensuring that advocacy efforts are both evidence-based and effective.
Through his work, Tito addresses healthcare disparities by improving access to reliable breast health information. He recognizes the urgency of combating misinformation and believes that knowledge empowers individuals to take charge of their health.
Tito’s Top Advice
Advocate for Your Health: Never hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions. Early action can make a significant difference.
Combat Misinformation: Rely on evidence-based resources to educate yourself and others.
Stay Committed to Learning: Whether through research, training, or hands-on experience, continuous learning strengthens your impact.
Make a Difference: Every conversation, workshop, and effort to spread awareness saves lives.
Looking to the Future
Tito recently began his new role as Health Manager A – End The Syndemic Framework at the Shelby County Government Health Department. While his long-term goal is to pursue a PhD, he is currently focused on excelling in this position, growing as a leader, and driving meaningful change in his community.
He envisions a future where breast health education is more personalized and widely accessible. By utilizing research and strategic outreach, he aims to develop tailored educational models that cater to different populations and learning styles.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Advocates
On this National Doctor’s Day, we honor dedicated physicians like Tito, who go beyond patient care to improve healthcare systems and empower communities. Thank you, Tito, for your unwavering commitment to education, advocacy, and the fight against breast cancer! To learn more about our Lemonista program and become one yourself click here.
