A Celebration of Life: Rising Above Breast Cancer

Capably hosted by jazz/r&b chanteuse Nancy Wilson, this fine production asks why Caucasian women are diagnosed with breast cancer more often than African-American women, yet black women die at higher rates--more often, in fact, than any other ethnic group. The program suggests three reasons for this medical puzzle: fear and an incorrect assumption that cancer is a "death sentence" anyway, lack of access to health care, and racial and economic bias. Incorporating interviews with well-spoken cancer survivors, the video introduces viewers to some half dozen organizations across the U.S. actively working to ensure that African-American women are informed of the importance of early detection (self-examination and mammography) and encouraged to pursue a medical diagnosis and follow-up care. Especially interesting is the North Carolina Breast Cancer Screening Program, which employs lay health advisors, or "natural helpers," who speak to women at their own rural east NC churches. Also helpful is the emphasis the tape places on the positive strides that have been made in cancer treatment over the past few years (all women, black or white, need to hear that survival rates are higher than they were even several years ago). The omnipresent controversies over mammography notwithstanding, this production is highly recommended for its unique approach and inspirational tone. Aud: C, P. (K. Glaser)