Black Women's Guide to Cancer

Black women in this country are succumbing to cancerous diseases at a greater rate than our White counterparts. The top three cancers that pose a threat to black women are breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer. Although research has shown that Black women don't smoke as much as White women, Black women tend to get lung cancer more easily. The primary risk group for lung cancer is smokers. Those who inhale secondhand smoke can also be at risk. Warning signs for lung cancer are having a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, headaches, and chronic fatigue. Unfortunately there is no early screening that can detect lung cancer. However, a recent study done by the New England Journal of Medicine has supported the idea that annual CT scans could pick up cancerous legions earlier and save the lives of those at risk for developing lung cancer. As for now, those who are having symptoms of lung cancer should see their doctor and have a physical exam and chest x-ray to check for lung abnormalities and swollen lymph nodes.

Another type of cancer that black women are succumbing to at high rates is breast cancer. While breast cancer can strike anyone, some people stand a greater risk for developing the disease due to family history of breast cancer and age factors. The majority of breast cancer patients are over 50 years of age. Although Black women are diagnosed with breast cancer less often than White women, Black women have a higher mortality rate from the disease. Experts recommend regular clinical breast exams as well as performing regular self breast exams. For women in their twenties and thirties, it's recommended to have a clinical breast exam every three years. Women forty and older should have regular annual mammograms as well as perform regular self breast exams. If you have a higher risk for developing breast cancer due to family history, you may need to get screened more often. Some signs of breast cancer to look for are changes in the size, shape, or feel of the breast, a firm breast lump that isn't easily moved, nipple discharge (other than milk if you're lactating), intense itching, and swollen lymph nodes in the underarm or above or below the collarbone. Early detection is key to saving your life. The earlier any cancer is detected, the better chance the doctors have of treating it. For a number of reasons, Black women tend to be diagnosed later than White women. That's why it's especially important to be screened and keep track of your breast health.

When it comes to colon cancer, Black women die at a rate of more than 40 percent higher than their White counterparts. While a medical reason is not clear as to why, it's speculated that diet, lifestyle, and inadequate health care are possible factors. Women age 50 and over should have regular checkups and be screened for colon cancer. A digital rectal exam is done every five years and a fecal blood test is done annually. It's also been suggested that women have a colonoscopy every ten years. Currently, a colonoscopy is the most accurate method used to detect colon cancer. For women who are at high risk for developing colon cancer, they should be screened more frequently. Colon cancer is linked to diets that are high in fat and red meat. Your diet should include adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and fiber to keep your digestive system running smoothly. Warning signs to look for colon cancer are blood in the stool, a sudden change in bowel habits, pencil thin stools, fatigue, unusual stomach pain, and unexplained weight loss.

With all cancers, it is important to know the warning signs and discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor. If you get regular screenings and checkups, in the event that you develop cancer, it can be detected early and you'll have a better chance of treatment and survival. A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. There are many cancer survivors living today and hopefully the number of those who survive will continue to increase.