Breast Cancer
- The death rate due to breast cancer in African-American women is 39% higher than in the general population of white women.
- Aggressive breast tumors are more common in younger African-American and Hispanic/Latina women. This more aggressive form of breast cancer is less responsive to standard cancer treatments and is associated with higher death rates.
Cervical Cancer
- Hispanic/Latina women have the highest cervical cancer incidence rate.
- African-American women are more likely to be diagnosed with cervical cancer than white women in the general population.
- African-American women have the highest death rate from cervical cancer.
- Six out of every 10 cervical cancers occur in women who have never received a Pap test in the past five years.
Steps You Can Take
- Women 40 and older (or women under 40 who have a family history, breast abnormality, or concern) should have a mammogram. Mammograms, combined with a clinical breast exam, are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat.
- Women 21 and over should have an annual Pap smear. A Pap test, combined with a cervical exam, can find abnormal cells which may turn into cancer. Pap tests can also catch cervical cancer early, when the chance of being cured is very high.
Free breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings are available for uninsured women. Make your appointment today by calling 856.968.7825 or visiting the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper Cancer Outreach, Education, and Screening Program website.