At CVD, we believe in the power of information to create change. That's why we're taking this time during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month to spotlight a crucial health issue: the impact of cervical cancer on Black and Brown communities and the urgent need for community-focused healthcare improvements.
The Disproportionate Impact
Cervical cancer is a significant health challenge, yet it affects Black and Brown women disproportionately. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that from 2010 to 2014, non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic women in the United States had a higher incidence of regional- and distant-stage cervical cancer compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts (CDC, 2017). This disparity is alarming, considering that cervical cancer is largely preventable and treatable if caught early.
Mortality Rates: A Stark Reality
The mortality rate for Black women due to cervical cancer is particularly concerning. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that Black women experience the highest mortality rate for cervical adenocarcinoma (ADC), a subtype of cervical cancer, compared to all other racial and ethnic groups (National Cancer Institute, 2022). This points to a critical gap in healthcare access and quality for Black women.
Older and Vulnerable
Age is also a factor in cervical cancer mortality. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health research showed that Black women are dying from cervical cancer at a rate 77 percent higher than previously believed, particularly among those over the age of 65 (Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2017).
The Way Forward: Community-Centered Healthcare
These statistics underscore the need for improved healthcare, specifically tailored to the needs of Black and Brown women and birthing people. Community-focused health initiatives can play a pivotal role in bridging this gap. By increasing awareness, providing accessible screening and treatment options, and ensuring culturally competent care, we can make strides towards health equity.
Collective Partnership: A Path to Health Equity
The fight against cervical cancer in Black and Brown communities requires a collective effort. Partnerships among community groups, healthcare providers, and policymakers are essential. Together, we can advocate for better funding, research, and policies that prioritize the health of marginalized and resource-denied populations.
Addressing cervical cancer in Black and Brown communities is not just a health issue; it's a matter of justice and equity. At CVD, we are committed to this cause and believe that, armed with solid information, we can drive meaningful change.
Check out our list of resources, especially Cervivor's Cervical Cancer Awareness Month calendar. You're bound to find a great way to get involved.
Resources
Equal Hope Importance of Getting Screened! (This event is on Jan 18, 2024)
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