Melanin & Pink Ribbons

Breast cancer awareness is not that deep. It’s as easy as learning your alphabet. Here in a concise but informative list of facts to empower. Feel free to share within your circle.

A – Awareness: Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive breast cancers like triple-negative. Know your risks.

B – Biopsy: If something looks suspicious, don’t delay—ask for a biopsy. Early answers save lives.

C – Clinical Trials: Black women are underrepresented in research. Participation helps ensure treatments work for us.

D – Dense Breasts: Black women are more likely to have dense breast tissue, which can hide cancer on mammograms. Ask if you need additional screening, like an ultrasound or MRI.

E – Early Detection: Catching cancer early often means more treatment options and better outcomes.

F – Family History: Breast cancer doesn’t just run in white families—know your family history and share it with your doctor.

G – Genetic Testing: Mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 occur in Black women, too. Push for testing if you have a family history.

H – Health Disparities: Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Demand equity in care.

I – Inflammatory Breast Cancer: This rare but aggressive type is more common in Black women. Redness or swelling without a lump matters—get checked.

J – Joy in the Journey: Mental health is part of healing. Prioritize joy, therapy, and spiritual grounding.

K – Knowledge is Power: Learn your screening guidelines and push back if doctors dismiss your concerns.

L – Lifestyle Choices: Exercise, a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol lower your risk.

M – Mammograms: Start early and get them regularly—especially if you have a strong family history.

N – Nurse Navigators: Many hospitals provide them. They guide you through treatment and resources—ask for one.

O – Overlooked Symptoms: Don’t ignore nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or persistent pain.

P – Partner Support: Black women often carry family burdens—let partners, friends, and community step in.

Q – Quality Care: Not all hospitals offer the same care. Research cancer centers with strong survival rates for Black women.

R – Reconstruction: Know your options. Insurance must cover breast reconstruction if you want it.

S – Screening Guidelines: Push for individualized screening plans—Black women often need earlier and more frequent checks.

T – Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: More common in Black women and harder to treat—advocate for aggressive care and second opinions.

U – Understanding Risk: Risk is not just age—it’s genetics, lifestyle, and environment.

V – Vitamin D: Many Black women are deficient, which may impact breast cancer outcomes. Ask your doctor about testing.

W – Weight Management: Obesity raises post-menopausal breast cancer risk—staying active helps.

X – X-rays and Imaging: Don’t skip imaging if recommended. 3D mammography may be more accurate for dense breasts.

Y – Your Voice: Advocate for yourself. If your concerns are dismissed, get a second opinion.

Z – Zero Shame: A diagnosis is not your fault. Release stigma and lean on the community.