1ºThis is a perfect example of systemic racism. Forty percent more black women die from breast cancer for several reasons. Partly because they are not screened for breast cancer early enough. Until recently, research on breast cancer in black women specifically has not existed, even though researchers have known for a long time that the molecular structure of humans is not the same in all races. So, the medical field creates guidelines that apply primarily to white women. But, black women, new research shows, need to be screened for breast cancer earlier than white women. Secondly, many black women do not have insurance to cover treatment costs. And thirdly, black women are more likely to have jobs they can’t afford to take time off from for checkups and as a result by the time they are diagnosed, their cancer is in late stages and much more difficult to treat successfully. This is an excellent example of systemic racism.
2ºThis new study raises an important question about whether black women should be screened for breast cancer at an earlier age. The study found that black women have twice the risk of dying from breast cancer by age 50 than white women, and that existing screening guidelines do not take this difference into account.
The authors of this study recommend that black women should begin breast cancer screening before age 40, rather than age 50 as recommended by existing guidelines. This would allow for earlier detection of breast cancer and provide more timely treatment. However, more research is still needed to confirm the validity and feasibility of this recommendation.
Regardless, this study reminds us that we need to know more about the differences in breast cancer risk between different populations in order to develop more accurate screening and treatment guidelines that will better protect women's health.
3ºRamsey Brown As a black woman in my 40s, I must admit that I am very impressed that you seem to know what "they" (I'm assuming you mean every black person in America) wants. I don't know if it comes from a place of psychic ability, education or lack thereof), or just good ol' boy bigotry. Anyway, since you have made this grand statement, I'll have to talk it over with my white husband of over two decades, and figure out our living situation. I do know he'll sure as hell miss my cooking, but he'll be okay because I'll tell him that Mr. Brown said it's what we all want.
Thanks for the much needed laugh this evening. I'm sure I'll even be chuckling as I begin packing up our stuff for the great re-segreation.