Minority groups losing out on early breast cancer detection - Liz Lynne
February 23, 2006 2:08 PM
In addition to the postcode lottery recently highlighted by regional variations in NHS-funded Herceptin treatment, new research has emerged showing that ethnic, social and age differences may also play a key part in women's chances of beating breast cancer.
The evidence from a survey carried out by Breast Cancer Care, points to the lack of awareness of breast cancer and screening programmes among women from black and minority ethnic groups (BME), older age groups and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, compared to the general population.
Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the West Midlands and co-founder of MEPs Against Cancer, said of the findings:
"While breast cancer screening greatly increases survival rates, I am concerned about the lack of awareness of breast cancer and ways to detect it within certain social, ethnic and age groups."
"More must be done to ensure that there is increased awareness of breast cancer, how to self-check and about screening services, so that women of all ages, social and ethnic groups can benefit from early detection."
On analysis of statistics and trials from the NHS breast screening programme, The Advisory Committee on Breast Cancer Screening found that it cut the death rate by more than a third and reduced the need for a mastectomy as cancers were detected earlier.
However, survey results from Breast Cancer Care revealed startling differences in levels of breast awareness and breast cancer knowledge among different population groups. The lowest knowledge levels about breast cancer, symptoms and risk factors were illustrated among black and minority ethnic women compared with the rest of the population. Similarly, in terms of behaviour, black and minority ethnic women emerged the least pro-active, with 43% reporting that they never check their breasts.
Notes to Editors:
1. Breast cancer accounts for one in three cancers of women in the UK (source: Cancer Research UK).
2. For more information on Breast Cancer Care's 'Same Difference' campaign and findings go to:
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