Silent Strength: North Carolina Woman’s Early breast Cancer Diagnosis Highlights Disparities in Black Women’s Healthcare
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nearly one in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but for Black women, the statistics are notably stark. A new story emerging from Wilson, North Carolina, underscores the importance of early detection and the urgent need to address healthcare disparities within this community.
A Surprise Diagnosis
Saptosa Foster, 49, discovered she was living with breast cancer in April 2024, despite a lifetime of good health and consistent mammograms. “Breast cancer looks like me,” Foster shared. “I never thought I’d ever say that because I had never had any chronic illnesses growing up. I’m a person who finds it difficult to ask for help. I’m the strong friend.” Doctors at Wilson Medical Center identified a stage 1 tumor that was too small to be felt during a self-breast exam. “This was not a tumor you could feel. It was the size of a pencil eraser.I do self-breast exams,” she explained.
Foster underwent a lumpectomy in June 2024,followed by a course of isolated radiation. Remarkably, chemotherapy was not required. During her recovery,she found solace on her backyard patio,reflecting on her journey. She received crucial support while undergoing treatment by staying at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Greenville.
A Blessing and a Call to Action
foster is now a cancer survivor as of June 2024, and she marked the milestone by ringing the bell – a tradition symbolizing the end of treatment. She attributes her positive outcome to early detection and the unwavering support of her “village,” particularly her mother. “It takes a village to not only raise a child, but to keep an adult alive, too. I’m so grateful I had that village,” she said.
Foster’s experience is a powerful reminder that breast cancer can affect anyone, and early detection is critical. “This was a huge, huge blessing just to be able to have this detected when it was. So many things lined up in my favor. I feel it’s critically important to talk and tell people about how it doesn’t have to be a death sentence,” she stated.
Addressing Disparities in Black Women’s Breast Cancer Outcomes
While Foster’s story has a hopeful ending, the broader picture for Black women is concerning. According to the American Cancer Society, Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at later stages and experience the lowest survival rate for every stage of the disease.
“We wont to know why,” questioned a representative with the American Cancer Society. “Are they being treated differently? Is it their habitat? What is it?” To address this critical gap in knowledge, the organization is launching a new study called Voices of Black Women, aiming to uncover the root causes of these disparities and improve early detection rates. .
Upcoming Event to Support Breast Cancer Research
The American Cancer society will host its Making Strides Against breast Cancer of the Triangle, NC walk on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, beginning at 8:00 a.m. This event will raise funds for vital research and support programs for those affected by breast cancer.
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