February 10, 2025
Stephen Hawking once said, “The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.” As we observe National Cancer Prevention Month, this quote resonates deeply with me. I am a breast cancer survivor—a journey that revealed the power of early detection but also exposed the systemic barriers that continue to leave too many people behind. For communities like ours, where healthcare disparities remain a harsh reality, the illusion of knowing enough has devastating consequences.
This advocacy is not just work for me; it is my life’s purpose. I have lived the fear, the uncertainty, and the strength it takes to fight through a diagnosis while navigating the healthcare system. I’ve also seen firsthand how access to timely, personalized care can save lives. I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure my community and those whose voices are often left unheard receive the care they deserve.
The Power of Early Detection and Personalized Care
In October 2023, despite having had a normal mammogram in January, I was diagnosed with Stage 1, Grade 3, Triple Negative Breast Cancer after a breast MRI revealed what earlier screenings had missed. My diagnosis didn’t happen by chance—it was the result of genetic testing, which I began in 2021 after learning I carried both the PMS2 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
Without early detection and an aggressive treatment plan, my story could have been very different. Genetic testing plays a vital role in identifying high-risk individuals, including men and women with a family history of cancer. Early detection through genetic testing provides an opportunity for preventative care, such as regular imaging, lifestyle modifications, and risk-reducing surgeries.
I underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstruction. Today, I am a survivor, but I know not everyone has the same access to genetic testing, specialized imaging, or the advocacy needed to navigate these systems. That’s why I fight for equitable outcomes, especially for underserved communities.
Disparities in Ohio: The Hard Truth
For Black women and men in Ohio, cancer outcomes remain disproportionately poor compared to white patients. Consider the following:
- Black women in Ohio face a 27.8 per 100,000 breast cancer mortality rate, higher than their white counterparts.
- Black men in Ohio suffer from a colon cancer mortality rate of 21.7 per 100,000, compared to 17.2 per 100,000 among white men.
- Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is particularly concerning, as it is an aggressive subtype that disproportionately affects Black women. Black women are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with TNBC compared to white women, leading to higher mortality rates due to limited treatment options and late-stage diagnoses.
Although breast cancer in men is rare, male breast cancer diagnoses in Ohio are on the rise, and men are often diagnosed at later stages due to lack of awareness and genetic screening. Genetic testing for BRCA mutations and other genetic predispositions is crucial for both men and women, offering early detection and tailored treatment plans.
These statistics reflect barriers to early detection, personalized treatment, and preventive care—barriers that must be removed.
[Source: Ohio Department of Health, “Breast Cancer in Ohio 2022.” Link; Ohio Department of Health, “Colon and Rectum Cancer in Ohio 2021.” Link]
The Fight Against Insurance Claim Denials
A cancer diagnosis is hard enough without the added burden of fighting for insurance coverage. Many people face claim denials for life-saving treatments due to:
- Medical necessity denials
- Treatments labeled experimental
- Administrative errors
UnitedHealthcare and Blue Cross Blue Shield have both faced criticism for denying claims or delaying approvals for necessary treatments. UnitedHealthcare, for example, recently expanded prior authorization requirements, resulting in delays that prevent patients from getting timely care. [Source: Reuters, “Americans face challenges as health insurance costs rise, delays mount,” December 9, 2024. Link]
When insurance companies deny access to life-saving treatments, the systemic disparities affecting Black communities are further amplified. These denials create additional barriers to care, delaying critical treatments and worsening outcomes.
How to Combat Insurance Denials and Access Life-Saving Care
If your claim for cancer treatment is denied, don’t lose hope. Here are steps you can take to fight back:
- Review the denial letter: Understand the exact reason for the denial.
- Gather documentation: Collect medical records, doctor’s letters, and evidence of the treatment’s necessity.
- Submit an internal appeal: Formally request the insurance company review its decision.
- Request an external review: If denied again, you have the right to an independent, third-party review.
- Seek support from organizations: The Patient Advocate Foundation helps patients navigate this process. [Source: Patient Advocate Foundation, “Where to start if your insurance has denied your service.” Link]
Fighting for Equitable Outcomes
For too long, the illusion of knowledge has allowed disparities to persist in cancer care. Many believe that awareness alone will save lives, but the reality is that without access to genetic testing, timely screenings, and equitable care, awareness can only go so far.
This is personal to me. I’ve lived through the complexities of this system, and I know how critical advocacy, education, and persistence are in ensuring better outcomes. As a breast cancer survivor who has faced the challenges of genetic testing, treatment, and navigating healthcare systems, I am committed to fighting for equitable healthcare outcomes for my community. I refuse to let silence or inaction continue to cost lives.
For those navigating this journey, I am here to help however I can—whether it’s through sharing knowledge, connecting you with resources, or simply listening. You are not alone in this fight.
Let’s break the illusion, seek real knowledge, and act decisively. What can you do today to advocate for your health or support someone in need of care? Have you or someone you know encountered barriers in accessing cancer treatment, and how can we work together to overcome them? Together, we can make sure that no one is denied the care they need simply because of where they live, their socioeconomic status, or the color of their skin.
Helpful Resources
If you or someone you know needs help navigating cancer care, contact:
- Patient Advocate Foundation Phone: (800) 532-5274 Website: Link
For questions related to healthcare coverage or appeals:
- UnitedHealthcare Member Services: (866) 414-1959
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Customer Service: Contact your state-specific plan or visit Link
Let’s Connect and Collaborate
Join the conversation and help amplify the message for equitable healthcare outcomes. If you need someone to help you advocate for those whose voice isn’t loud—whether it’s a patient too busy fighting for their life, a caregiver, or even someone no longer with us—let me help you navigate the gaps. Because no one fights alone in the battle of staying alive. WE.DESERVE.TO.LIVE
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