Brooklyn Community Unites for Breast Cancer Awareness and Early Detection

In Brooklyn, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and residents gathered for a powerful discussion on breast cancer awareness — focusing on the importance of early detection and health advocacy among Black women.

According to the American Cancer Society, Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age and face higher mortality rates compared to white women. The event, hosted by Complete Health Ventures, Heart Body Soul, and The Gentlemen’s Factory, aimed to bridge that gap by empowering participants with information and resources that could save lives.

Throughout the event, experts emphasized the importance of mammogram screenings every one to two years, with additional imaging such as MRI or ultrasound for women with dense breast tissue or a family history of cancer.

Paris Wilson, a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner who participated in the event said, “Women, Black women in particular, are dying at a higher rate because we have limited access. We’re also misdiagnosed, and sometimes our concerns are dismissed so it’s important to do these tests earlier.”

Another attendee spoke about the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare spaces, saying, “If someone isn’t taking my concerns seriously, I know now to go for a second opinion.”

The conversation also highlighted how mental health and community support play a critical role in healing and prevention. “As women, we bottle up so much. We’re mothers, daughters, and sometimes don’t even feel like we can speak to our partners. But your mental health is just as important,” one participant shared.

By the end of the day, the message was clear breast cancer awareness is not just about pink ribbons or one month of action, but about ongoing education, open dialogue, and ensuring that Black women are heard, supported, and empowered to take charge of their health.