Breast Cancer Thriver, Ananda Lewis, Addresses Racial Disparities In Cancer Care And The Importance Of Early Detection

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Survivor Ananda Lewis Talks Breast Cancer Early Detection

Ananda Lewis spoke to SurvivorNet about her experiences as a breast cancer survivor and advocate for addressing racial disparities in cancer care.
Lewis’ story highlights the importance of paying attention to symptoms and getting regular screenings.
Her fight for breast cancer awareness and prevention is fueled by her own experience and her desire to help other women who may find themselves in a situation similar to hers.

Breast cancer is a disease that affects people of all races and ethnicities, yet African American women are more likely to die from breast cancer than any other group. Ananda Lewis, a former TV host and breast cancer thriver, recently shared her experience with SurvivorNet, shedding light on the importance of early detection and the barriers to healthcare that many African American women face.

During SurvivorNet’s annual “Close the Gap” conference, Lewis explained, "Most of the women I speak to are African American. We don’t always have the resources we need to keep consistent insurance." One of the biggest challenges that African American women face is access to consistent health insurance. In her interview, Lewis highlights how many women she speaks to do not have the resources they need to keep insurance coverage. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and ultimately poorer outcomes.

Lewis’ story highlights the importance of paying attention to symptoms and getting regular screenings. She initially declined a mammogram when her gynecologist suggested it, and then ignored a lump in her breast for a year. When she finally sought medical attention, she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer.

Lewis’ advocacy for breast cancer awareness and prevention is fueled by her own experience and her desire to help other women. She emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages women to get regular screenings. She serves as an inspiration as she addresses racial disparities in healthcare and education and breaks down communication barriers about the importance of preventative care, and increased access to screenings and medical care.

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