AMA Wire

Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012

For Minority Physicians

Deaths from breast cancer striking black women most

Deaths from breast cancer striking black women most

Did you know that black women are 40 percent more likely to die from breast cancer than white women? Black women have the highest death rates of all racial and ethnic groups when it comes to breast cancer, the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among all U.S. women.

According to a resource by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the reasons for this health disparity among black women result from many factors, including the likelihood of that population having more aggressive cancers and fewer social and economic resources. To improve these outcomes, black women need more timely follow-up and improved access to high-quality treatment.

The AMA Minority Affairs Section (MAS) encourages all physicians to remain committed to ongoing education about options for breast health and helping women become more informed so they can make educated choices about breast health. Email the AMA-MAS if you have a project or idea that could help prevent health disparities in connection to this health issue or increase awareness about it.

Campaign focuses on infant mortality in American Indian, Alaska Native families

An initiative by the Urban Indian Health Institute aims to raise awareness and share valuable health and prevention messages to address the high rates of infant mortality among American Indians and Alaska Natives.

The Native Generations initiative shares the stories of young urban American Indians and Alaska Native parents that are staying connected to their culture and community for the health of their families. It also promotes a nationwide network of Urban Indian Health Institute organizations that provide health services, cultural activities and connection to community support. And it reveals challenges to infant health, safety practices and other health risks.

As part of the campaign, a video captures the experiences of several families in Detroit and Seattle, and highlights organizations bringing expectant and new parents together to offer support, education and information.