...Is Protecting Our Women.
Breast Cancer
Black women have elevated breast cancer rates at younger ages.
While Black women have slightly fewer rates of breast cancer than White women, they are 40% more likely to die. Multiple factors are attributed to these negative outcomes including reproductive health milestones (ex. first period, breastfeeding, menopause, etc.), weight, and access to care.
Black women have elevated breast cancer rates at younger ages than White women and are more likely to develop more aggressive forms. Despite this, Black women obtain fewer breast cancer tests, also known as mammograms, than White women. Because of their elevated risk for breast cancer, every Black woman should visit their doctor for a breast cancer risk assessment by age 30. Healthy lifestyle choices—diets with lots of fruits and vegetables, exercise, and avoiding all tobacco (including electronic cigarettes/vapes) are all important in preventing all types of cancer and help live a healthier, happier life.
Resources
Susan G. Komen- Breast Cancer Risk: Race and Ethnicity
American Cancer Society- McDowell, Sandy – Breast Cancer Death Rates Are Highest for Black Women—Again
Sisters By Choice- Breast Cancer In African American Women