FL S2198

Recognizes April 16-22, 2011, as "Minority Cancer Awareness Week" in Florida

Documents cancer disparities among minority populations, including higher death rates for African Americans (33 percent higher for men, 16 percent higher for women) compared to white populations as of 2005

Identifies lack of health insurance as a significant barrier, with 1 in 5 African Americans, 1 in 3 Hispanics and Latinos uninsured in 2008, compared to 1 in 10 non-Hispanic whites

Notes Hispanics have higher rates of infection-associated cancers (cervical, liver, stomach) and face additional barriers including geographic access, financial constraints, and cultural and linguistic factors

Urges Floridians to support cancer education efforts and policies addressing disparities, including the Mary Brogan Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and Minority Health Initiatives within the Florida Department of Health