THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF BLACK WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER IN TORONTO

Abstract

Context: Data, primarily from the United States, indicates that Black women experience delays in breast cancer treatment, receive non-standard care, and have a lower survival rate. Canada is not immune to racial disparities, but race-based health data is not routinely collected. Objectives: To understand the lived experiences of Black women in Canada living with breast cancer. Methods: One-on-one semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 20 women living in Toronto, Ontario who identified as Black/African/Caribbean and who were currently undergoing or had previously undergone treatment for breast cancer. Data was analyzed using an inductive, constant comparative method to derive themes. Results: Several themes were identified including 1) the importance of social support and community; 2) importance of faith and spirituality; 3) cultural considerations; 4) mental health and psychosocial support; 5) body image and intimacy challenges; 6) importance of fertility preservation; 7) financial burden; 8) lack of representation; and 9) mistrust of the healthcare system. The overarching theme was a sense of feeling alone, unseen, and unrepresented. Recommendations include the importance of advocacy, the need for race-based cancer and health data and the need for racially concordant care. Conclusion: Invisibility and anti-Black racism in healthcare settings are unique concerns for Black women with breast cancer in Toronto. Understanding their needs can help to dismantle medical racism and colourblind healthcare. Further research is needed to develop tools to address these inequities and work towards culturally appropriate and safe approaches.