In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, WAOK and Juandolyn Stokes has launched its “Goes Pink” initiative, focusing on critical issues surrounding breast cancer, particularly within the Black community. This month-long effort aims to raise awareness and provide crucial resources to those affected by breast cancer, culminating in a recent impactful episode of “On Point with Juandolyn Stokes.”
In a powerful Sister Talk segment, “Let’s Talk Boobs”, host Juandolyn Stokes had a powerful conversation with Ricki Fairley, the CEO and Co-Founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance and triple negative breast cancer survivor. Their conversation shed light on the alarming statistics and unique challenges faced by Black women regarding breast cancer.
Fairley emphasized the harsh realities surrounding breast cancer in the Black community, where Black women experience a staggering 41% higher mortality rate than their white counterparts. These disparities are exacerbated by various factors, including systemic biases, and a lack of targeted research and treatment options.
During the interview, Fairley shared the mission of TOUCH, which advocates for improved awareness and resources specifically for Black women diagnosed with breast cancer. She highlighted the organization’s initiatives aimed at educating communities and organizations, supporting research, and encouraging pharmaceutical companies to consider the specific needs of Black women in their clinical trials and treatment development.
Stokes and Fairley also discussed the alarming rates at which young Black women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Research indicates that Black women under 35 are diagnosed at twice the rate of their white peers and face a mortality rate three times higher. These figures underscore the urgency for advocacy and education within the community.
Fairley pointed out that the biological differences in Black women’s cells contribute to the ineffectiveness of many current treatments, revealing a critical gap in medical research. The lack of tailored drugs for this demographic has made it imperative for organizations like TOUCH to push for more inclusive research practices and drug development.
As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us remember that awareness is just the beginning. Together, we can make a difference and support our sisters in the fight against breast cancer.