Breast Cancer Projects

Research shows that Hispanic/Latina women are less likely than Caucasian women to believe they are at risk for breast cancer and less likely to get regular mammograms. They also are more likely to incorrectly believe that mammograms are a method of preventing and treating breast cancer rather than detecting breast cancer. Only 38 percent of Hispanic/Latina women age 40 and older in the United States are reported to undergo regular mammograms.

Although Hispanic/Latina women have lower rates of breast cancer compared to non-Hispanic Caucasian or African American women, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among Hispanics/Latinas. Breast cancer is also more frequently diagnosed at a later stage, and lower utilization of screening tests, such as mammography, among Hispanic women is thought to contribute to a later diagnosis, when disease is more advanced. Breast cancer is perceived as a private matter among women in the Hispanic/Latino culture, and for this reason many women do not seek out breast health services or receive the support they need when facing a possible breast cancer diagnosis.

The relatively high breast cancer mortality rate among Hispanic/Latina women can also be attributed to a prevalence of low income, low educational attainment, lack of health insurance, language barriers, lack of awareness of breast cancer risks and screening methods, and lack of physician referrals. Distrust of doctors can also play a part in the decision of some women to forgo basic breast health care.

It is important to make sure that all women, regardless of race, ethnicity or socio-economic status, have access to and receive breast health information, as well as breast cancer screening and treatment services. More culturally appropriate interventions and research are needed to reduce the disproportionate burden of cancer and raise the quality of health services to medically underserved Hispanic/Latina women.

Current Projects

Past Projects