Honoring the Strength of Ohio Black Women: Reflecting on the Intergenerational Breast Cancer Burden
Honoring the Strength of Ohio Black Women: Reflecting on the Intergenerational Breast Cancer Burden
Dear Members and Supporters of the National Council of Negro Women Inc., Columbus Section Ohio (NCNWCSO),
As we commemorate Minority Health Month, it is imperative to reflect on the intergenerational struggles faced by Ohio Black women in the battle against breast cancer and the pursuit of equity. Across four distinct generations – Early-20th Century, Mid-20th Century, End-20th Century, and Early-21st Century – the burden of breast cancer has touched the lives of countless Black women, highlighting disparities in healthcare access, treatment outcomes, and support systems.
For many of us, including myself, a breast cancer survivor from the Mid 20th Century, the journey has been one of resilience, strength, and determination. The challenges Black women faced in each era have been unique yet interconnected, shaping our experiences and perspectives on health, equity, and community support.
1. Early-20th Century
In the early 20th century, Black women faced significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare due to systemic racism and segregation.Limited resources, lack of awareness, and social stigmas surrounding cancer often led to delayed diagnoses and poor outcomes. Women like Mary Johnson, a courageous advocate for Black women’s health in Columbus, Ohio, paved the way for future generations by raising awareness and promoting early detection initiatives
2. Mid-20th Century
During the mid-20th century, advancements in medical technology and increased awareness of breast cancer began to improve outcomes for Black women. However, disparities in access to care and treatment options persisted. As a survivor myself, I can attest to the importance of family, medical team, and community support and empowerment in navigating the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. Women like Ruth Thompson, a trailblazer in patient advocacy and education, inspired hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
3. End-20th Century
By the end of the 20th century, strides had been made in addressing healthcare disparities and promoting health equity for Black women. Increased advocacy efforts, improved screening programs, and targeted interventions helped to reduce the burden of breast cancer in our communities. Leaders such as Dr. Patricia James, a pioneering oncologist dedicated to serving underserved populations, played a crucial role in advancing health equity and access to care.
4. Early-21st Century
In the early 21st century, the fight against breast cancer continues with renewed urgency and determination. While progress has been made, challenges such as access to affordable care, cultural competence in healthcare settings, and disparities in research participation persist. It is up to us, the current Intergenerational of Black women, to build on the legacy of those who came before us and advocate for a future where all women have equal opportunities for prevention, treatment, and support.
Action Plans
1. Promote community-based education and awareness campaigns focusing on breast health, early detection, and screening guidelines tailored to the needs of Black women
2. Advocate for policies that address healthcare disparities, improve access to quality care, and ensure culturally competent services for underserved populations.
3. Support research initiatives prioritizing diversity and inclusion in clinical trials, leading to more effective treatments and interventions for all women
In solidarity and hope,
References:
– National Cancer Institute. “Breast Cancer Disparities.”
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/health-disparities
– American Cancer Society. “Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2021-2022.”
https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-andstatistics/breast-cancer-facts-and-figures/breast-cancer-facts-and-figures-2021-2022.pdf
