Addressing Disparities in Black Women’s Cancer Survival: The Journey to Closing the Gap
June 2, 2024
Black women have the highest death rate and shortest survival rate for most types of cancer in comparison to other racial or ethnic groups. For example, there is a 6 to 8 percentage point gap in 5-year survival between Black and white women for every breast cancer subtype (McDowell, 2022). Moreover, Black women have a 41% higher death rate from breast cancer compared to white women (Bcrf, 2024).
The American Cancer Society has committed to closing these disparities. The VOICES of Black Women is a study led by the American Cancer Society to get a better grasp on cancer and other health conditions among Black women. Participants in this study would complete an online health and life history survey at enrollment and update information twice a year for at least 30 years. Enrollment for the American Cancer Society’s 30-year study can be done on their website (https://voices.cancer.org/frequently-asked-questions/). We encourage you to check to see if you or someone you know is eligible to participate.
Results from this study have the potential to be groundbreaking in terms of improving Black women’s health and treatment. We commend the American Cancer Society for undertaking this work and committing to closing the disparities faced by Black women regarding their health.
References
McDowell, S. (2022, October 3). Breast cancer death rates are highest for Black Women— again. American Cancer Society. https://amp.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/breast-cancer-death-rates-are-highest-for-black-women-again.html
Bcrf. (2024, September 18). Understanding breast cancer racial disparities. Breast Cancer Research Foundation. https://www.bcrf.org/blog/understanding-breast-cancer-racial-disparities/
Voices of Black Women | American Cancer Society. (n.d). https://voices.cancer.org/frequently-asked-questions/
