The Silent Threat to Black Women Everywhere

While we often think of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes as “silent killers,” there’s another one lurking that few people consider. Its name is ovarian cancer. Known for its subtle symptoms and sometimes confusing diagnoses, ovarian cancer is especially challenging for Black women. And it’s deceiving. Although ovarian cancer is less common among Black women than other races, it’s also way more serious when it does occur. Turns out, Black women are more frequently diagnosed at later stages, facing higher rates of mortality, worse outcomes, and symptoms that are more difficult to treat.  Let’s break it down based on the latest genetic, oncological, and epidemiological studies available… Prevalence and Mortality When it comes to cancers among women, there are more prevalent types. Breast cancer, to name one. But did you know that due to its diagnosis delays and deadliness, ovarian cancer is one of the most concerning? According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 19,700 U.S. women will be diagnosed in 2024, and over 13,000 will die as a result. Of those Black women diagnosed, a significantly higher percentage may die.  In one study from Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, Black women were found to frequently receive advanced-stage...