Improve Black Women's Health

During African American (Black) History Month, we highlight opportunities to address issues that impact the health of black women in our communities.

              Improve Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

                  Source: Breast Cancer Rates by Race and Ethnicity

Black women have the highest breast cancer death rates of all racial and ethnic groups and are 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women. The reasons for this difference  include having more aggressive cancers and fewer social and economic resources.

To improve this disparity, black women need more timely follow-up and improved access to high-quality treatment.

What can we do to improve breast cancer diagnosis and treatment?

• Advise women that the Affordable Care Act provides specific benefits and coverage for women, including coverage of mammograms without co-pays in many health plans.
• Use the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program to help uninsured women get screening and access to treatment.
• Understand factors that contribute to health disparities in cancer and identify opportunities to reduce health disparities.
• Engage well-trained case managers, health educators, community health workers, and other patient navigators to help women understand and guide them through the health care system.
• Use evidence-based tools like electronic systems or other reminders to notify patients when it’s time to get a mammogram.
• Learn from others about screening successes and from a cancer screening program in South Carolina.