Breast Cancer – Still too Silent - 3

By George Y. Pearson, PA-C, B. S.

Some women take on a fatalistic view: "Treatment will not work for me!" In the mind and hearts of many African Americans the healthcare system has processed generations of families like cattle in a meat-packing house. They have no positive experiences to fall back on.

Seen through the African American woman's eyes the situation is grim. The woman sees the impact her cancer and of death by watching her loved ones go before her. This takes a toll. The suffering of a cancer death has an emotional and psychological impact on her and her entire family. Most of the time African American women are the bread winners, over 60% of all black children grow up with only their mothers. The stress takes its toll She abandons hope and disconnects - she internalizes the cycle of death and simply accepts it.

African women and her families are often not educated about the advances in the healthcare system. There have been great success rates in healing of cancer. The field of prevention has greatly lowered the risk factors particularly through early detection - thanks to promotion of early screening and treatment.

What is needed? 

1. Develop breast cancer medical models that address mental, social, physical and spiritual needs of women of color.
2. Improve access and reduce health disparities. Health care providers should be culturally competent and address the fears of breast cancer diagnosis. 
3. Utilize existing community forums in church, barber and beauty shops to inform and empower women.    
4. Education and outreach programs that meet women where they will allow partnerships.
5. Actively recruit more women of color to participate in research, drug trials and studies.