Title: Black Women Fight Against Disparities in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Subtitle: Three brave women recognized as Hometown Heroes for raising awareness and advocating for at-risk communities
Date: [Current Date]
Black women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are on a mission to bring attention to the disparities they face in accessing healthcare and treatment. Lyndsay, Keisha, and Jazmine, all diagnosed with TNBC, have been recognized as Hometown Heroes through Merck’s Uncovering TNBC program for their relentless efforts to raise awareness and advocate for at-risk women in their communities. They were joined by Emmy-nominated television host Nina Parker and TNBC survivor Maimah Karmo for an intimate discussion on the challenges faced by Black women in battling this aggressive form of breast cancer.
TNBC, a subtype of breast cancer, is known for its fast-growing nature and high likelihood of recurring after treatment. Black women are twice as likely as White women to have this form of cancer, particularly those under the age of 40 or with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Despite the overall breast cancer death rate dropping by 43% in the last 30 years, Black women continue to experience a 40% higher breast cancer death rate compared to their White counterparts, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Healthcare disparities play a significant role in these statistics. Black women often face limited access to screenings, treatment, and preventive and educational information. Historical barriers, such as lack of access to education and clinical trial enrollment, also contribute to the disparities faced by Black women. Jazmine, a nurse from Chicago, emphasizes the importance of cultural understanding in healthcare. She believes that healthcare providers who take the time to understand a patient’s culture can communicate better and meet their needs effectively.
Maimah Karmo, a 17-year TNBC survivor, stresses the need for the oncology community to address the disparities faced by Black women. This includes improving access to screenings, ensuring equal access to treatment, and providing comprehensive education and support. She advocates for collective action to improve care for Black women at risk for TNBC.
The unique struggles faced by Black women in prioritizing their own health are also highlighted in this discussion. Nina Parker recounts how her mother, when diagnosed with breast cancer, put herself first for the first time, reflecting the strong cultural expectation for Black women to prioritize the needs of others above their own. Jazmine shares that open and honest communication about personal needs during treatment is crucial, and Keisha, a cancer survivor, struggled with balancing her treatment while being a caregiver.
The power of storytelling is emphasized as a means of advocacy and support. Lyndsay, a TV journalist from New York City, moved back to Houston after her diagnosis to be closer to family and build a community for women with cancer. She believes that sharing stories and experiences is essential to create awareness and maintain a support network for those living with TNBC.
To further empower women to advocate for themselves, Merck’s Uncovering TNBC program offers resources for awareness, support, and connection. By visiting UncoverTNBC.com, individuals can access valuable information and support networks to navigate the challenges of TNBC.
The stories of Lyndsay, Keisha, and Jazmine serve as a reminder of the urgent need to address the disparities faced by Black women in the fight against TNBC. With collective action and increased awareness, it is possible to ensure that all women have equal access to screenings, treatment, and support that could save lives.