The Arizona group aims to increase the survival rate of black women with breast cancer

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Coalition of Blacks Against Cancer is working to reduce the number of black women who are at higher risk of dying from breast cancer.

As the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaches, Arizona’s family took a closer look at the disparities when it comes to diagnosing and treating women of color.

Research shows that black women have a 40% higher risk of dying from the disease than white women.

“There are biases in the health care system that make it harder for Black women to advocate for themselves,” says Dr. Michele Halyard.

Halyard founded the Coalition of Blacks Against Cancer in 2010 to highlight the inequality among Black women fighting the disease. While biology is a factor, a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology shows that systemic racism and insufficient access to care also play a role.

“I always tell women, if you don’t feel heard, it might be time to find a new provider,” Halyard said.

The coalition is fighting to reverse the trend by educating women about prevention and screenings. They also increase awareness about the differences in healthcare.

For more information about resources and monthly meetings, visit their website..

Do you see a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Click here to report it.

Do you have a photo or video of a current news item? To steer it here for us with a short description.