Although the overall incidence of breast cancer in black women is lower than in white women, black women are more likely to die from the disease than their white counterparts.
In order to address the disproportionate effects of breast cancer on black women, the Comprehensive Cancer Center will sponsor “Black Women and Breast Cancer.” The Feb. 12 event will be held at the Marriott Conference Center, 1275 South Huron St., in Ypsilanti. Discussion primarily will focus on prevention, early diagnosis and general breast care. A reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by the main event from 7-9 p.m.
Dr. Lisa Newman, director of the Breast Care Center, will be the featured speaker. Newman, an associate professor of surgery at the Medical School, conducts research on racial disparities in breast cancer and serves as chief national medical advisor for the Sisters Network Inc., a national black breast cancer survivors support organization.
Aisha Langford, minority outreach coordinator at the Comprehensive Cancer Center, says the event is important because the sharing of information about prevention and early diagnosis gives women a chance to take on a more active role in their health and in their health decisions.
“This is an opportunity for African-American women to learn more about breast cancer and why it affects them disproportionately,” Langford says. “This is a big issue, and we want to share education with women that can help them detect signs and symptoms early so they can receive proper care as soon as possible.”
Women of all backgrounds are encouraged to discuss breast cancer risk factors with their doctor. These factors include family history, older age, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and tobacco use. Women over 40 also are encouraged to have a mammogram once a year.
To register for “Black Women and Breast Cancer,” call Aisha Langford at (734) 998-7073 or e-mail [email protected]. Childcare will be available at this free event, which also will feature door prizes, refreshments and a black history contest.
