October 30, 2024
October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month – an important opportunity to learn more about breast cancer, increase awareness, and participate in screenings. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
The good news is that thanks to advancements in diagnosis and treatment, breast cancer is one of the more treatable forms of cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports the 5-year survival rate is now 91%. However, the statistics also reveal how centering health equity can help communities beat breast cancer. Currently, Black women have the lowest 5-year survival rate for breast cancer. And Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer, which is more difficult to treat.
For many communities, barriers to accessing healthcare result in increased breast cancer rates and lower survival rates. However, thanks to local initiatives, including those supported by ENI community liaisons, more patients are getting the care they need.
One national initiative that has improved access to breast cancer screening is mobile mammogram clinics. In September, Nancy Carnley, ENI community liaison for the Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe, organized a mobile clinic in her community. Mobile clinics are one way to improve access to mammograms for women in rural communities, patients with mobility issues, and those who lack reliable transportation.
However, another challenge remains – many women remain unaware of the importance of their annual breast cancer screening appointments. Sheree Taylor, ENI community liaison for Goodwater, shared about one local initiative to inform and educate community members.
“In October, I collaborated with the Goodwater Walking group for their breast cancer awareness walk,” Sheree shared. “This initiative aims to educate participants about racial disparities, risk factors, and ways to manage those risks related to breast cancer.”
The weekly walking group was founded by Sharonna Hayes, Goodwater’s director of Parks and recreation. For Sheree, a chronic disease health educator, it offered the ideal opportunity to share the importance of proactive healthcare.
“While October is widely recognized for breast cancer awareness, there is often a lack of focus on personal health histories and the importance of early detection,” she continued.
As October comes to a close, we encourage you to learn more about breast cancer and share resources with your neighbors and family. To learn more, visit the Alabama Department of Public Health website, which offers helpful resources on breast cancer risk and symptoms as well as information on free screenings. We also encourage you to explore the ENI blog Addressing ENI Communities’ Health Concerns: Cancer to learn more about cancer signs, symptoms, diagnoses, and resources.