John,
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the U.S., breast cancer is the 2nd most common cancer, and it's the 2nd leading cause of all cancer-related deaths. Unfortunately, like so many other health-related conditions, there is a concerning racial disparity as the mortality gap between Black women and white women persists.
Did you know?
- Black women have a 40% higher death rate from breast cancer
- Nearing twice as high compared to white women, the mortality rate for Black women with breast cancer is higher than any other racial or ethnic group
- Overall, Black women have the lowest survival rate for all subtypes of breast cancer
- Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage disease, which is usually more costly and difficult to treat
- Black women are more likely to experience delays in treatment, but less likely to receive recommended treatment
So many factors go into this: socio-economics, disproportionate exposure to breast carcinogens due to environment, or lack of access to quality preventative measures. Just like we talked about during Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September, and just like we saw (and are still seeing) throughout the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic, rooted within the healthcare system exists a harsh reality of inequities that disproportionately impacts Black people.
It's on us to spread awareness and education around such a prominent health issue within our communities. That's why we're proud to uplift the work of these organizations that are dedicated to supporting Black people impacted by cancer:
The African American Breast Cancer Alliance is raising awareness in Black American communities by collaborative networking and providing resources and support for African American women and men impacted by breast cancer. The AABCA has a mission to provide education, address barriers, concerns, lack of information, myths, patient navigation, and resources, as well as survivorship and treatment related to the individual and their loved ones.
Sisters Network Inc. is a national organization that works to improve Black women's access to mammograms, quality breast cancer care, and resources and information about the disease. They also offer financial assistance programs for women in active treatment for breast cancer, as well as providing mammograms at no cost for uninsured women.
Carrie's TOUCH helps with connection and community for Black women diagnosed with breast cancer through their free app “Survive and Thrive.” It includes access to support groups, directories of financial resources, a diverse set of oncologists, free and low-cost therapy options, meditation features, and more.
American Cancer Society researchers have made it abundantly clear in their studies that a very small fraction of the racial differences in cancer deaths can be attributed to genetic differences – meaning the influence of systemic racism and inequities is the leading cause.
That's why it's so important to uplift and support the work of organizations like these dedicated to helping Black women impacted by breast cancer.
In love and solidarity,
Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation
