African American women have about a 71 percent five-year survival rate compared to an 86 percent rate for white women. Several reasons have been suggested for the disparity in breast cancer statistics between black and white women. Some African American women believe they are at low risk because breast cancer is a white woman s disease. Lack of health insurance, low income, and limited access to healthcare may delay women from getting a diagnosis until the cancer has progressed into later stages. Studies also show fear of cancer prevents women from getting screening or adequate early care.
Cultural barriers play a role.
Many blacks distrust the medical community. Reaching Out to African American Women For many African Americans, the church plays an important role in their community. So, some health experts are using the church as a trusted and respected base to get the message out about breast cancer to African American women. Although programs may vary from region to region, education is an important aspect of empowerment. Women are taught the importance of being an active participant in their own health care, as well as the need for breast self-exams, mammograms, and regular health care visits for early detection.