American Cancer Society VOICES of Black Women Ambassador Dr. Erica Austin Convenes local Black Women to promote Women’s Health

American Cancer Society VOICES of Black Women Ambassador Dr. Erica Austin Convenes local Black Women to promote Women’s Health

Highlighting American Cancer Society and SIU School of Medicine’s Commitment to reducing disparities faced by Black Women

Springfield, Ill. – As the nation celebrates National Cancer Survivors Month, we recognize disparities faced by Black Women still exist. In their most recent Facts & Figures for African American/Black People report, the data showed Black Women re 38% more likely to die from breast cancer than White Women, despite slightly lower incidence rates.

Community VOICES of Black Women Presented by SIU School of Medicine was held to create a space where survivorship is celebrated while calling attention to the disparities that lead to higher mortality rates for their community. During this event, 5 survivors shared their unique perspectives on the barriers, challenges, and hope encountered throughout their diverse experiences.

In Illinois, Atlanta native Natalie Brown is currently seeking treatment for lung cancer. Her journey underscores the urgent need for continued advocacy and equitable access to care.

"As long as you have lungs you can get lung cancer,” said Brown. “I never expected this journey but I chose to fight, not just for myself but for everyone who needs a voice. No one should be overlooked. It’s time to prioritize research, prevention, and hope for all."

Efforts like those of Natalie, Dr. Erica Austin and Kim Moore of LavenderLife Cancer & Lupus Foundation and are vital to raising awareness of the importance of cancer research and life-saving resources like Medicaid in the fight against cancer in light of the proposed threat to our nation’s healthcare. American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network urges communities to contact their legislators to save vital funding and research.

This event also created the challenge presented by the local chapter of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) to their peers in which American Cancer Society empowers those outside the SNMA to take the following steps:

include VOICES in your next newsletter/send a VOICES email to your listserv

encourage your members to post about VOICES on social media

each viewer to share VOICES personally with 3 people

As we observe National Cancer Survivors Month, may we recognize those taking steps to ensure every cancer and every life has equitable access to survivorship.

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