WILMINGTON — The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) recognizes Black History Month by highlighting the disproportionate impact of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) on Black women.

Delaware has the highest rate of TNBC diagnoses among Black women in the United States. The DBCC's campaign, "First is the Worst," aims to bring attention to this critical health disparity and empower Black women with knowledge and powerful resources.

Typically, being first is thought of as an accomplishment, but in this case, it’s terrible. However, DBCC is collectively spreading the word about TNBC’s impact on Black women to ensure communities have access to care and the knowledge they need to be informed on breast health issues.

TNBC is different because it refers to cancer cells lacking estrogen or progesterone receptors, tends to grow and spread faster than other breast cancers, and can have the same signs and symptoms of other breast cancers.

It is vital to remember that early detection saves lives. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more treatment options that are available.

Natalie Belcher, a TNBC breast cancer survivor and Survivorship Specialist at DBCC, said, “When I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) in 2015, my first comment to my surgeon was ‘What are we going to do about it?’ My thought here was for my daughter and my granddaughter to come. My surgeon was not surprised by the question because she had known me for some time and knew that I was a fighter and believed that with courage and hope (my faith), I was not going to let this thing become my history.”

The DBCC offers support programs, including "My Sister's Keeper," specifically designed for women of color navigating their breast cancer journey. The organization emphasizes that no one should face this challenge alone.

DBCC stands resolutely with the Black/African American community, offering crucial screenings and support programs to dismantle barriers and ensure everyone has access to the resources they need.

During Black History Month, the DBCC encourages the community to take action:

• Schedule a mammogram: Early detection saves lives. Contact the DBCC at 1-888-672-9647 for assistance with scheduling and overcoming barriers to screening.
• Raise TNBC awareness: Discuss this aggressive cancer with family and friends, sharing information about its signs and symptoms.
• Support "My Sister's Keeper": This free program provides support and resources for women of color at all stages of their breast cancer journey.
• Advocate for health equity: Speak out against racial disparities in healthcare and support policies that improve access to quality care for everyone.

For more information, visit debreastcancer.org or call 1-888-672-9647.