Recently news has come out that Ms. Sheryl Crow has breast cancer. This is a serious matter, and the good news is that after a successful surgery she has an excellent prognosis. The key to her speedy recovery was that the cancer was found in the early stages. I am no expert on this subject, I merely have done research due to my work in prior years as a stock broker and more recently in my capacity for an investor relations firm. Another factor in my knowledge of this subject is that a dear and close friend has recently fought and survived breast cancer.
This is a subject that gets little attention I think. While many individuals and celebrities may wear various ribbons, not everyone understands the scope and effect of this disease. I have known many cancer survivors, my father being one of them [cancer of the tounge and in part of the lymphnodes in the throat]. The fact that one has cancer is shocking, but it is not necessarily life-ending. Often, if found early enough and steps are taken, cancer is survivable. Like with Ms. Sheryl Crow, early detection is what saves lives.
Some facts that everyone should know is that women of all races can get breast cancer. While the incident rates are highest for white women over 40, black women are more likely to have it under 40. Also of note is that Black/African American women are more likely to die from breast cancer without regard to age. Men are not immune from breast cancer either. While the incidence rate is low it does happen. I cannot emphasis enough that early detection is essential as survival rates for white women are 88% and Black African American women are 74%. The key to the difference in survival rates is that many black women find the cancer at a later stage where it is more difficult to fight. The important thing to note is that it can be survived, especially with early detection.
Some noted entertainers that have survived breast cancer may surprise you. They include Ms. Julia Child, Professor June Jordan, Ms. Peggy Fleming, Ms. Patti LaBelle, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Mr. Edward Brooke, Mr. Montel Williams, and of course Ms. Sheryl Crow. These are but a few of the names that exist. Other survivors of cancers are Mr. Harry Belafonte, Mr. Nelson Mandela, Mr. Robert DeNiro, Mr. Colin Powell, Mr. Lance Armstrong, Mr. Merv Griffin, Mr. Michael Milken, Mr. Sidney Poitier, Mr. Jerry Lewis and Mr. George Foreman.
Cancer can affect anyone, man or woman, Black African American or Hispanic or White, in the United States or overseas, young or old, famous entertainers, politicians, fathers and mothers. But it does not prevent full productive and prosperous lives. Like I said this is a subject that hits close to home for me, and many just don’t know the facts. If you have questions, speak to your doctor. The more you know the better you can live. These entertainers, and millions of other regular people prove that everyday.
This is what I think, what do you think.
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