New Initiative to Improve Health Outcomes for Black Women
In the United States, Black women face alarming health disparities, with a mortality rate from breast cancer that is 41% higher than that of white women, despite receiving diagnoses at lower rates. This disparity is only one aspect of a broader health crisis affecting Black women, who also experience higher mortality rates from cervical and colorectal cancers.
In light of these concerning statistics, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has announced a transformative partnership with the American Cancer Society to launch the “VOICES of Black Women” study. This pioneering endeavor aims to explore the social, environmental, and healthcare factors contributing to these disparities.
Launched in March during Women’s History Month, this initiative seeks to recruit 100,000 Black women between the ages of 25 and 55 for participation in the study. Utilizing the vast reach of OWN across television, digital platforms, and social media, the campaign will emphasize the importance of Black women’s voices in driving impactful research that can reshape the future of cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.
The data collected from this study will guide researchers toward tailored solutions aimed at improving health outcomes and addressing the cancer disparities that have long affected Black women. The research is set to explore how lifestyle, environmental factors, social experiences, and access to healthcare intersect to influence cancer outcomes.
To facilitate engagement, OWN will launch a dedicated digital hub at OWN.tv/Voices, providing vital information and encouraging participation in the VOICES of Black Women campaign. Through this initiative, OWN is reaffirming its commitment to promoting health equity and ensuring that Black women are actively represented in research affecting their health.
Tina Perry, President of OWN, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, ‘We are honored to stand alongside the American Cancer Society in amplifying the VOICES of Black Women campaign. Through OWN Your Health, we have the opportunity to leverage the power of OWN’s platform to reach Black women directly and empower them with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to prioritize their health.’
Historical data reveals that Black women have long experienced disproportionately high cancer mortality rates and shorter survival periods. This persistent underrepresentation in medical research has led to unaddressed questions regarding the unique factors influencing their health outcomes. Consequently, the development of tailored interventions and treatment strategies has been limited.
Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, interim CEO of the American Cancer Society, emphasized the urgency of this study, stating, ‘The hard truth is that despite advances in cancer research, Black women still face unacceptable disparities in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survival. By engaging Black women in this groundbreaking study, we can gain invaluable insights into the factors driving these disparities and create more effective, tailored solutions to improve health outcomes.’
For more information about the VOICES of Black Women campaign or to join the study, visit OWN.tv/Voices.
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