Prose To Go

A new American Cancer Society study debunks the myth that rural people don't get tested for cancer as early as their urban counterparts. African Americans, however, still have a greater chance of being diagnosed with a later-stage cancer.

The first part is no surprise, really. Cities are filled with pollution. If you're a smoker, you might as well concede that sooner or later you'll be dealing with cancer, heart disease or emphysema. Secondhand smokers are probably at higher risk in a city, too.

In a small town, you're more likely to know your neighbors and a doctor who can refer you for testing. Many people in small towns still live near or with their extended families who will look out for each other.

 The intriguing question is why aren't African Americans getting tested sooner? Obviously, if they are poor, they are less likely go to a doctor for regular check-ups.

Another ACS study found that while white women get breast cancer more often, black women are more likely to have it before they're 40. They are also less likely to survive it. While 90 percent of white women survive at least five years after diagnosis, blacks have a 77 percent rate.

The difference is mainly attributed to early detection. 

African Americans face several barriers to health care, including inadequate access, lack of health information and misconceptions about screening.

Some Emory University researchers initiated a public awareness campaign in Atlanta. Trained advocates visited churches, workplaces and health fairs to discuss misconceptions about breast cancer screening and encourage regular mammograms. Cancer survivors helped people diagnosed with breast cancer get treatment, assisting them with financial needs and support services. Most important, the survivors encourage women to keep their doctors' appointments.

The model could be duplicated in any major city, researchers say. Why wait for the program to come to you?

Why not spread the word at your church or office? When you get a mammogram, let your coworkers know and ask if they've had one. You could make an appointment together. Some women even make an afternoon of it, renting a limo and going for drinks afterward. It only takes 3 minutes to get tested.

That 3 minutes is miniscule compared to how many months or years might be cut from your life if you don't get tested. Think about it.

Hannah Powell-Auslam has had a single mastectomy and is undergoing chemotherapy. About 180,000 women this year will learn that they have the disease.

Hannah is only 10 years old. Her chances of contracting breast cancer were a little better than winning the California lottery: one in 1 million. She is one of only a few hundred children ever diagnosed with it.

Her family, who shaved their heads in solidarity, says that she is coping courageously. Like most children with cancer, Hannah has a positive attitude and isn't languishing in the pity pool.

Now the girl from Fullerton, Calif., is part of the Cancer Club, the one that everyone dreads. Most of us wouldn't wish cancer on her worst enemy, much less an innocent child.

Who knows why God chose Hannah to deal with the fatigue and pain that comes with chemo? Her parents would probably rather have the disease themselves than watch their daughter endure it.

Meanwhile, Hannah will emerge as a stronger person, one of about 11 million cancer survivors. When she is cured, she can thank God that she is young and resilient and gave it 110 percent.  

Doctors emphasize that parents should not insist upon breast self-exams and mammograms for pre-teens. There's no take-home lesson here.

It should make young girls think, however, about their bodies and informing their parents about abnormal changes. Hannah's diagnosis first began when she complained of itchiness in her chest; her mother found a lump.

Hannah's mother took her to the doctor and the cancer was detected early. She has excellent chances, as high as 90 percent, for a full recovery. Who knows, one day Hannah could celebrate her 100th birthday.

The way to beat cancer is to get tested early and often. Don't be afraid of this beast.

Read more about Hannah's journey at her family's blog. You go, girl!