Blacks with cancer are up to twice as likely as other races to die from the disease, according to researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Center.
Why?
According to the study, blacks are often diagnosed with more advanced cancer are are more likely to have other underlying health problems, such as hypertension or diabetes. That problem could probably be resolved, somewhat, if more blacks made routine check-ups as a part of their overall health care--instead of going to the doctor only when "something hurts," and the pain becomes unbearable.
Another reason cited is the fact that black patients are less likely to be advised about cancer screenings and less likely to receive surgery or chemotherapy. That is another problem that could also be resolved if physicians and other health care providers treated ALL patients equally. And then, it would be our responsibility to follow up on those screenings and surgeries.
Hospitals that treat primarily black patients tend to have fewer resources and offer lower quality care. No surprise there.
The study also concludes that blacks tend to trust their doctors less, the care received is often not as good and in some cases they may be unable to pay.
**information courtesy of Newswise **
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