Diversity Healthwatch: Latinos Face Cancer Scourge

As reported on the New America Media and Colorlines websites, “with the Latino population set to triple by 2050, the already alarming number of cancer diagnoses in the Latino community could rise just as sharply, or even more drastically, according to a new compilation of research.”  The study goes on to elaborate on social and cultural factors that influence Mexican American women’s access to breast cancer screening. For example, “women reported feeling uncomfortable when asked to remove their clothes for a doctor’s exam or a mammogram. Other Latinas would cancel medical appointments if they found out their doctor was a man. Some would withhold personal medical information during a visit because they were uncomfortable with an interpreter listening in. 

“Even within their own community Latinos are sometimes hesitant to discuss cancer and other illnesses, researchers say. Still, although Latinos are sometimes hesitant to seek preventive care and cancer education, other barriers limit their health care options, especially for those who have limited English ability. And limited services mean fewer chances to catch cancer at an early stage, before it becomes deadly.”

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