Empowering Women of Color Through Early Detection and Education

Breast cancer remains the second most common cancer among women, following skin cancer. While men can also develop breast cancer, it occurs far less frequently. What’s especially important to know is that early detection saves lives — and that’s where awareness, education, and regular screening make all the difference.

For women of color, particularly Black and Latina women, breast cancer can be more aggressive and diagnosed at later stages. Studies show that Black women are about 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women, often due to barriers in access to care, delayed screenings, or limited awareness of personal risk factors. At Fort Greene Council, we believe knowledge is power — and proactive care is the first step toward closing that gap.

🌸 Understanding Your Risk

You may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer if:

• You are over age 40 (risk increases with age)

• Have obesity or live a sedentary lifestyle

• Drink alcohol regularly

• Have a family history of breast cancer or carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation

• Began menstruation before age 12 or menopause after age 55

• Take hormone replacement therapy during menopause or certain birth control pills

Remember: having risk factors doesn’t mean you will get breast cancer — and not having them doesn’t mean you won’t. That’s why it’s so important to know your body, your history, and your options.

💪 Reducing Your Risk

You can take steps today to support lifelong breast health:

• Get regular exercise

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Limit alcohol intake

• Speak with your healthcare provider about your personal risks and when to start screenings

🎀 Early Detection Matters

The best way to catch breast cancer early is through routine screening.

A mammogram — a low-dose X-ray of the breast — can detect cancer before a lump can be felt.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a mammogram every two years for women aged 40 to 74 at average risk. Some women may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening depending on family or genetic history. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine what’s right for you.

🏥 Where to Get a Mammogram

If you are 40 or older and have not had a mammogram in the past year, you may qualify for free or low-cost screenings in New York City.

• Call 311 to locate a nearby mammogram site.

• The New York State Cancer Services Program offers free breast cancer screening for uninsured New Yorkers.

• The American-Italian Cancer Foundation’s Mobile Care Clinic provides no-cost mammograms for NYC residents.

Most insurance plans cover preventive screenings without a copay, so there’s no reason to delay.

💞 A Community Call to Action

This October, Fort Greene Council encourages all women—especially women of color—to prioritize their health and schedule their screenings. Share this message with your sisters, mothers, aunts, and friends. Together, we can change outcomes and save lives through awareness, advocacy, and action.