Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among African-American women.

In addition to celebrating Black History Month in February, the Georgia Cancer Coalition (GCC) and the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) are urging African-American women to use the month as an incentive to get screened for breast cancer and begin to reverse this disproportionate trend. African-American women are asked to take greater care of themselves during this special month of observance by scheduling health screenings during February.

"In addition to celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of African-American heritage, this is also a good time to set an example for younger African-Americans by focusing on your health," said Dr. Kimberly Redding, Medical Director of the DHR's Cancer Control Section.

"Statistics and history show that African-American women have a higher than average breast cancer death rate. It is imperative that African-American women 40 and over take action against this terrible trend and get screened for breast cancer through an annual mammogram and regular breast exams," said Redding.

"Early detection of breast cancer in African-American women and all other cultures can reduce the number of preventable cancer deaths," she said.

Studies reveal that African-American women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a more advanced stage when it is harder to treat and cure. The American Cancer Society Cancer Facts and Figures 2002 report shows the annual average mortality rate for breast cancer is 31 per 100,000 for African-American women compared to 24.3 per 100,000 for Caucasian women.

Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., director of DHR's Division of Public Health, said, "A mammogram can detect breast cancer at an early stage, giving the patient better treatment options and increasing chances of survival. If more African-American women would commit to early detection practices, the death rate among African-American women with breast cancer would decrease."

Nancy Paris, GCC vice president, explained that many women, including African-American women, do not get regular mammograms for fear of hearing the news that they indeed have breast cancer. "Breast cancer will not just go away by ignoring the disease. The earlier breast cancer is detected the better the treatment options and survival rates. Many breast cancer survivors go on to live productive lives."

SOURCE:
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Georgia Cancer Coalition (http://www.georgiacancer.org)