End Cancer Disparities

Advocating For Health Equity: National Minority Cancer Awareness Week

In the landscape of healthcare, awareness, and action are essential to address disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. National Minority Cancer Awareness Week serves as a poignant reminder of the health inequities faced by populations historically marginalized, discriminated against, and excluded in American society. It’s a time to not only acknowledge these disparities but also to highlight organizations dedicated to promoting health equity. Among them is Cervivor, Inc., providing education, empowerment, and walking in purpose through advocacy to end cervical cancer.

A Call to Action: Under-represented communities in the United States often experience higher rates of cancer incidence and mortality, coupled with lower survival rates compared to the general population. These disparities are multifaceted, stemming from various factors such as socioeconomic status, lack of access to healthcare, cultural barriers, and systemic discrimination. National Minority Cancer Awareness Week, observed annually in April, provides an opportunity to shed light on these issues and mobilize efforts toward change. During this week, conversations around cancer prevention, early detection, and access to quality care are amplified, with a specific focus on underserved and under-represented communities. It’s a time for education, outreach, and advocacy to address the root causes of health disparities and ensure that all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background, have equitable access to healthcare resources.

Championing Health Equity: At the forefront of the mission to end cervical cancer and to close the gap in health disparities is Cervivor, Inc. Founded by 23-year cervical cancer survivor Tamika Felder, Cervivor is a non-profit organization dedicated to cervical cancer advocacy, support, and education. What sets Cervivor apart is its commitment to addressing the unique needs of marginalized communities, including communities of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, rural residents, young adults, and those facing socioeconomic challenges.

Cervivor’s mission extends beyond raising awareness about cervical cancer; it’s about empowering individuals to become advocates for their own health and well-being. Through a combination of educational resources, support networks, and community outreach initiatives, Cervivor works tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind in the mission to end cervical cancer. One of the cornerstones of Cervivor’s approach is its emphasis on health equity. Recognizing that marginalized communities often face barriers to accessing healthcare, Cervivor strives to bridge these gaps through targeted outreach programs, culturally sensitive resources, and partnerships with organizations that share its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Embrace Inclusion: In addition to its focus on cervical cancer advocacy, Cervivor is also actively involved in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the healthcare sector.

Kimberly Williams

Through its DEI programming, Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer, Kimberly Williams and Team Cervivor aim to create a more inclusive healthcare environment where all individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. This includes initiatives to address disparities in cancer care, such as advocating for culturally competent healthcare providers, promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusivity in cancer support services, and raising awareness about the unique needs of minority communities. By spotlighting DEI issues within the healthcare sector, Cervivor is helping cultivate a more equitable and compassionate approach to cancer care. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, Cervivor is making strides toward a future where everyone has equal access to the resources and support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Towards a Future of Health Equity: As we observe National Minority Cancer Awareness Week and shine a spotlight on organizations like Cervivor, Inc., it’s crucial to recognize that achieving health equity is a collective responsibility. It requires ongoing commitment, collaboration, and action at all levels of society – from policymakers and healthcare providers to community organizations and individuals. By raising awareness about health disparities, advocating for marginalized communities, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare, we can work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Let’s honor the spirit of National Minority Cancer Awareness Week by redoubling our efforts to create a world where health equity is not just a goal, but a reality for all.

Reflections From World Health Day: Bridging The Gap in Cancer Across The Globe

On World Health Day, April 7th, we came together under the banner of “My Health, My Right,” echoing a fundamental truth: access to quality healthcare is a basic human right. However, as we reflect on the day’s theme, it’s clear that this right is far from being universally realized, as disparities persist not only on a global scale but also within communities, even in countries like the United States, Canada, Scotland, and across Central America and Africa.

The fight against cervical cancer serves as a poignant example of the multifaceted challenges in healthcare accessibility. In Africa, the lack of resources, including broken machines and long waits for vital screenings, creates barriers to early detection and treatment. Despite the personal choices individuals may make regarding their health, they are often hindered by the absence of necessary tools and infrastructure. Jane was a patient seeking care for a routine physical. She happened to find a free screening clinic being offered at her local hospital. Her cervical cancer was detected and treated early due to access and timely screening. 

In the Caribbean, where the scenery is picturesque, the reality is harsh: limited access to comprehensive treatment options forces individuals to endure costly and emotionally draining journeys for essential treatments like radiation therapy. Countries like St. Lucia face the added burden of relying solely on chemotherapy, necessitating patients like Nymphia to seek radiation treatment abroad, adding layers of complexity to an already challenging situation.

Even in countries like Canada, where universal healthcare is a cornerstone, significant barriers persist, particularly for marginalized communities. Poverty, homelessness, and racism contribute to late-stage cancer diagnoses, resulting in poorer outcomes. Addressing modifiable barriers such as housing instability and limited health literacy is essential to ensure timely access to treatment for all Canadians.

Similarly, in Central America, including countries like Honduras, World Health Day serves as a reminder of the inherent right to healthcare. Despite recent progress, many barriers continue to hinder vulnerable groups and rural communities from accessing essential cervical cancer screenings. Challenges such as lack of awareness, stigma, financial constraints, and inadequate family support contribute to low screening rates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Karla is a cervical cancer survivor and patient advocate working to change the narrative.

Even in Scotland, a country with a robust healthcare system, cancer inequalities persist, with higher incidence and mortality rates in deprived areas. The disparity is stark, with cancer death rates being 74% higher in the most deprived populations compared to the least deprived. Urgent action is needed to dismantle barriers to early diagnosis and ensure equitable access to high-quality care across all communities. Cara was diagnosed with stage II cervical cancer after several doctors appointments originally addressing gastrointestinal and stress-related symptoms.   

As we reflect on World Health Day 2024, it’s evident that the journey towards equitable healthcare is ongoing and multifaceted. It requires not only addressing systemic issues but also dismantling barriers rooted in social determinants of health. Together, we must continue to advocate for universal access to quality healthcare, ensuring that “My Health, My Right” is a reality for all, regardless of geography or socioeconomic status.

To get involved and make a difference, community members and allies can:

  1. Advocate for policy changes that prioritize healthcare equity and address social determinants of health.
  2. Support organizations like Cervivor and initiatives working to improve access to healthcare services for underserved communities.
  3. Educate others about the importance of health equity and the impact of social determinants on health outcomes.
  4. Engage in community outreach and support initiatives that address healthcare disparities and promote wellness.
  5. Stay informed and involved in local and global health issues, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

Together, we can create a future where everyone has equal access to the healthcare they need and deserve. Let’s work towards a healthier, more equitable world for all.