When it comes to breast cancer, all women are at risk. The disease, however, carries its own brand of discrimination. Consider these statistics from the National Cancer Institute:
- African American women have the lowest survival rates for breast cancer
- The incidence of breast cancer is increasing faster among Latina women than any other group
- Asian and Pacific Islander women experience an increase in breast cancer rates once they become accultured to the United States
Some of the variations in these statistics are related to lack of regular screening in these populations.
The Mercy Cancer Center-Des Moines, through a grant from Susan G. Komen for the Cure, is addressing some of the economic and language barriers to accessing screening. Through community education and bilingual education, they are helping women understand the value of regular screening.