“It is important that we find new ways to inform minority women of the statistics and preventive cancer screenings out there,” said Melinda Ramirez, coordinator for the Early Detection Works program. “Many of these women are clearly not getting the necessary information needed to make positive choices for their health.” The Early Detection Works program pays for breast and cervical cancer screenings for Kansas women, who are age 40-64 years of age, do not have insurance or have insurance with high unmet deductibles, and who meet financial guidelines.

Much can be attributed to cultural barriers and myths. “I have had many Hispanic and Native American women I work with tell me that they feel like they might not get the best treatment,” said Ramirez. “Often they think they will receive some sort of placebo for their treatment. These beliefs lead to fewer minority women seeking prevention screenings.

“There are many other myths associated with cancer,” Ramirez added. “Some women believe that, because their breasts are small, they are not at risk for breast cancer. Others have mentioned that because they are not sexually active or only have one partner, they are not at risk for cervical cancer.”

Mary Lou Kegler, a member of the African American Women’s Breast Cancer Support Group and a breast cancer survivor, is devastated by the staggering number of women who are being diagnosed with cancer. “We have got to get a clue as to what is going on with minority women and cancer,” said Kegler. “Many think it can’t happen to them at a young age, yet I am seeing younger and younger women being diagnosed everyday. You have to educate yourself so that you can advocate for yourself.”

Compared to Caucasian women, fewer African American, Hispanic, and Native American women aged 40 and older reported having mammograms or fecal occult blood testing for colon cancer in the past two years. Of all ethnic groups, Asian American women are the least likely to seek Pap tests, mammography, and breast exam screening. The death rate for African American women with breast cancer is 1.2 times higher than that of Caucasian women.

In addition to encountering informational barriers and cultural myths, another stumbling block to overcome is the low rate of minority representation in the medical and educational fields. It is believed by some that if the minority community witnessed more minority health care professionals conducting preventive screenings and treatment, there would be a heightened sense of awareness and an urgency to follow through with testing. “We have to be able to meet our target audience,” Kegler explains. “We need to show them others like them in the field delivering the message and encouraging them. There needs to be a change in how minorities are approached.” Seeing minority physicians, counselors, and health educators in the field allows minorities to relate on a deeper level and, in turn, become more comfortable with asking questions and seeking assistance.

To aid in educating and supporting this underserved population, the American Cancer Society is actively trying to understand and eliminate the issues contributing to the burden of cancer in minority women and men. “As the demographic face of America evolves, it is even more important to reach out to the minority population,” said Michelle Garoutte-Miranda, American Cancer Society Community Specialist. “We must first understand cultural differences and identify the best community assets we have to attack the problem head on.”

By supporting, and building relationships with organizations such as the African American Women’s Breast Cancer Support Group, the Coalition of Hispanic Women Against Cancer, and the American Indian Heartland Cancer Network, the American Cancer Society has made a commitment to inform and provide today’s health advances in prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer in the minority community.

Yet, there are many in that community who feel it is not solely the responsibility of the health system. Kegler explains, “All women, including minorities, must arm themselves with the knowledge regarding cancer and screenings. Ask the tough questions. There are programs and services available to you no matter who you are.”

Kegler adds, “We are responsible for our own destiny. Minority women must take the time to know what is going on with their bodies and protect themselves. They are so busy taking care of others; they do not take care of themselves.”

“Each day I think about my family and what I would do if I were to become diagnosed with cancer,” Ramirez explains. “That’s why I tell women that they’re not just doing this for themselves. They’re doing this for their loved ones.”

Seek information and share it with your friends and family. The bottom line is that early detection through regular screenings can save lives.

For more information on the Early Detection Works Program call 913-573-6751.

We CareIf you or a loved one would like more information about the American Cancer SocietyÕs free programs and services, the Coalition of Hispanic Women Against Cancer, The American Indian Heartland Cancer Network, or the African American WomenÕs Breast Cancer Support Group contact:
American Cancer Society; KC Metro Office
Amy Dreweatt, health initiatives at 913-432-3277 or 1-877-580-7095
1-800-ACS-2345

Tekia Thompson works as the Public Relations Specialist for the American Cancer Society - KC Metro Office. For detailed information regarding the American Cancer Society’s guidelines for early detection and screening, Click Here.

Article Source: http://www.flourishmagazine.com