Why Are Black Women More Likely to Die from Cervical Cancer?

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by Tara E. l January 5, 2024

Cervical cancer was once one of the most common causes of cancer death for American women. The good news is that over the last 40 years, the number of cases of cervical cancer and the number of deaths from it have decreased significantly. This is largely due to the increased use of the Pap test. This test can find changes in the cervix before cancer develops. It can also find cervical cancer early when it’s small and easier to cure. But it’s still important to be informed about this disease.

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer happens in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This type of cancer is particularly noteworthy because a majority of cases are linked to certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. HPV strains 16 and 18 are known to be the main culprits, responsible for a significant number of cases worldwide. What’s crucial to understand is that while HPV is common, not all infections lead to cervical cancer.

The body’s immune system often successfully fights off the virus. However, in some cases, the virus survives for years, contributing to the process that causes some cervical cells to become cancer cells. This transformation process is usually slow, providing opportunities for prevention, early detection, and successful treatment. Regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are key in detecting changes in cervical cells before they turn into cancer.

Cervical Cancer in Different Ethnic Groups

According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer rates and deaths vary among different ethnic groups. African American women are more likely to get cervical cancer and die from it than women of other races or ethnicities. Hispanic women have the highest rates, followed by African Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders, and Caucasians.

Why Are African American Women More Likely to Die from Cervical Cancer?

African American women are more likely to develop and die from cervical cancer than women of other races or ethnicities due to a combination of factors. These include:

Healthcare Access

African American women may have less access to healthcare services, which include regular cervical cancer screenings like Pap tests and HPV tests. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, and limited access can lead to later-stage diagnosis when the cancer is more advanced and harder to treat.

Socioeconomic Factors

Economic barriers, such as lack of health insurance or inadequate health coverage, can prevent regular medical check-ups and screenings. Additionally, socioeconomic stressors can impact overall health and wellness, potentially exacerbating health issues.

Biological Differences

Research suggests there may be biological differences in the way cervical cancer develops and progresses in African American women compared to women of other ethnicities, although this area is still under study.

HPV Prevalence

African American women have a higher prevalence of certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that are more likely to lead to cervical cancer.

Awareness and Education

There may be less awareness about cervical cancer risks and the importance of regular screenings in some African American communities. Cultural factors and health literacy also play a role in how women perceive and respond to their risk of cervical cancer.

Historical Mistrust

Historical injustices in healthcare, like the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, have contributed to a lingering mistrust of the medical system among some in the African American community. This mistrust can lead to delays in seeking medical care or participating in regular health screenings.

It is important to address these disparities through improved healthcare access, community education and targeted public health initiatives to ensure equitable health outcomes for African American women.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of this condition, including:

HPV infection
Smoking
Having HIV or another condition that makes it hard for your body to fight off health problems
Using birth control pills for a long time (five or more years)
Having given birth to three or more children
Having several sexual partners

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

Initially, early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, you may start to notice certain changes. Specifically, these changes can include:

Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and has a foul odor
Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse

Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, other health problems you may have, and your preferences.

Options might include:

Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy

When you talk to your doctor, ask about the types of treatment, their side effects, and the likelihood they will help your situation.

Preventing Cervical Cancer

Prevention is key. Here are some steps you can take:

Get vaccinated against HPV.
Have regular Pap tests.
Practice safe sex.
Don’t smoke.

Where to Find More Information and Support

For more information on cervical cancer, you can visit websites like the American Cancer Society and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These sites provide detailed information on cervical cancer, its prevention, and treatment. Support groups and local community health centers can also offer support and guidance.

Conclusion

Awareness and proactive health measures are crucial in the fight against cervical cancer. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing the signs and symptoms, and knowing your treatment options are key steps to take in protecting your health.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that this article was written with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information on this topic, this content is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, symptoms, or treatments. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website or anywhere else.