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Despite cancer deaths declining, cancer continues to be a top cause of death among Latinos and all people in the US.
One of the most prevalent forms of cancer is breast cancer.
Every year, 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Many of these women are Latina.
What’s more, breast cancer is the top cause of death among Latinas.
That’s one of the reasons that a researcher at Liberty University is looking for Latina breast cancer survivors to participate in a research study.
Let’s explore the research study and discover ways to contribute to research to ensure better breast cancer outcomes for Latinas and all women.
Research Study on Breast Cancer
The study aims to examine the experiences, challenges, and needs of Latina breast cancer survivors and better understand what and why they went through what they went through.
By looking at these outcomes, the study hopes to provide more tailored approaches, support, and resources to survivors.
The ultimate goal is to “help improve survivorship care and promote healthier lifestyle for Latina breast cancer survivors,” according to researcher, Debbie Fortino, a doctoral student who is leading the study at Liberty University.
The study consists of a 60-minute interview over Zoom, a 20-minute transcript review, and a 60-minute virtual focus group.
To be eligible to participate in the study, you must be a Latina breast cancer survivor between ages 40-60 and have completed chemo and/or radiation therapy or have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Those interested can contact Fortino at deborahfortino1@gmail.com or (305) 713-0833.
Latinas and Breast Cancer
Obesity has been linked to higher rates of cancers in women over the last 20 years, according to a recent report.
This includes breast, uterus, colon and rectal, pancreatic, kidney, and liver cancers.
The rate of breast cancer incidence in Latinas between 2016 and 2020 was 100.7 per 100,000 people, according to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts & Figures 2024 report.
Latinas are impacted more by breast cancer due to a higher prevalence of obesity.
78.8% of Latinas are overweight or obese, and Latinas are 20% more likely to be overweight, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services OMH.
What’s more, Latinas experience a higher rate of death from breast cancer at a rate of 13.7.
The higher rates of death are due to fewer mammograms and a lack of follow-up with abnormal test results.
There are many reasons why Latinas aren’t being screened, including limited access to preventative care, health insurance coverage, and language hurdles.
That’s also why Latina participation in research studies and clinical trials are so important.
Participate In Cancer Clinical Trials
Participating in research studies and clinical trials is an integral part in creating new treatments and interventions for cancer.
Clinical trials are studies that help researchers learn more to help slow, manage, and treat Alzheimer’s and cancer for current and future family members. But without well-rounded volunteers for clinical trials, the benefits may miss a certain group.
To prevent this, volunteer for a clinical trial by visiting our clinical trials page or read about hero volunteers.
“Volunteers in clinical trials are not only helping themselves, but they’re also building a future with better treatments that can help their families in the future,” said Dr. Amelie Ramirez, director of Salud America! and the Institute for Health Promotion Research at UT Health San Antonio.
Those looking for opportunities based in San Antonio can search the Mays Cancer Center at UT Health San Antonio’s Find a Clinical Trial database to learn more about available clinical trials and eligibility requirements.
On a national level, visit clinicaltrials.gov to find a clinical trial near you.
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