Breast Cancer Awareness: What You Need to Know as an At-Risk Black Woman

 By: Pelumi Ero-Phillips

Every 13 minutes, a woman dies from breast cancer. This is very heartbreaking but it is a reality that occurs. I pray that none of us is a victim of this.

But, do you know that black women are more likely to die from this disease?

Even though breast cancer isn’t commonly diagnosed in black women younger than 45, they are more likely to die from the disease if eventually they are diagnosed.

However, as a black woman, you have friends that can help you fight this deadly disease. 

Your friends are powerful anti-cancer drugs in the fight against breast cancer. Keeping an active social circle and hanging out with those that make you happy can help reduce your chances of getting breast cancer. This is because stress and isolation may have the power to increase tumor growth in the breast.

Aside from hanging out with friends, there are also ways you can help reduce your risk of getting breast cancer.

Fish oil may help reduce your risk. 

I definitely did not know this but apparently, fish oil may reduce your risk of breast cancer by 32 percent. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may help combat breast cancer, particularly invasive ductal breast cancer which is the most common form of the disease. Fish supplements are useful, I used to detest them when I was younger but now, I’m a fan. 

Found a lump? Visit your Doctor but don’t sweat it. 80 per cent of lumps detected are harmless.

It's good to know what can help us fight this disease, but let's also look at some of the risk factors.

Starting menopause after 55 increases a woman’s chances of breast cancer. Don’t let this scare you, this only increases her chances, it is not a definite yes that she gets the disease.

Family history and background- Women who have close relatives suffering or have suffered from the disease are at higher risk.

Tip: When looking into genetic clues, don’t only observe your mother’s family tree, your Dad’s side of the family matters too.

Obesity

Childlessness or late Childbearing (having a child in your fifties)  increases your risk for the disease also. 

Intake of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and birth control shots. Basically, being born as women put us at high risk of Breast Cancer.

Previous encounter with breast cancer: It sucks to know that being a survivor of breast cancer puts you at a higher risk of the disease again. Dedicating a moment of silence to all the cancer survivors out there, join me if you want to. We love you all.