Cancer’s Harsh Reality: Hispanics Confront Disproportionate Challenges

Beatriz Topete, 58, has faced the harsh reality of cancer from a young age. Losing her mother to leukemia while just a toddler marked the beginning of a painful journey. Over the years, Topete has witnessed cancer claim the lives of her father, two uncles, and a grandmother. Thus, the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma, a rare muscle cancer, earlier this year felt tragically familiar.

In 2022, cancer ranked as Arizona’s second leading cause of death. While white residents reported a higher incidence of cancer—431.6 cases per 100,000 between 2017 and 2021—Hispanics are statistically worse off, facing higher mortality rates once diagnosed. The paradox highlights systemic issues in healthcare access among different racial and ethnic groups.

Topete’s quest for answers regarding her distressing symptoms involved a year and a half of consultations, multiple doctors, and a misdiagnosis. It wasn’t until she pushed for a CT scan in the emergency room that a tumor was identified, though clarity remained elusive. “The test results kept coming back, inconclusive, abnormal but inconclusive,” she recalled, even after consulting the Mayo Clinic.

Hispanics, while less commonly diagnosed with widespread cancers like breast and prostate, face a double burden with preventable cancers linked to infections. Colorectal cancer is particularly prevalent, carrying a stigma that hampers preventive care and increases mortality rates among this demographic. Topete’s own experience resonates, as her uncle concealed his condition until it was too late.

Addressing these issues, Floribella Redondo-Martinez, CEO of the Arizona Community Health Workers Association (AzCHOW), emphasized the need for community-level preventive measures. Recently, AzCHOW secured over $500,000 from the Office of Minority Health to enhance screenings for colorectal cancer in vulnerable areas. “We see a very low consumption of fruits and vegetables. Fiber is key to preventing colorectal problems,” noted Ana Celia Martinez, the organization’s deputy director.

Barriers to healthcare persist, particularly in rural areas, where lack of access can deter regular medical check-ups. According to Adriana Maldonado, assistant professor and behavioral researcher at the University of Arizona, the disconnect stems from cultural differences and a perceived absence of personalized care. “Patients miss that personal touch,” she remarked, exemplifying the need for cultural competence in healthcare.

The lack of trust in the healthcare system further complicates matters. Community health workers bridge the gap, fostering connections between healthcare providers and residents. “There’s a lot of needs in our Hispanic communities, and it’s crucial that our services effectively reach them,” asserted Redondo-Martinez.

Fortunately, Topete received an early diagnosis, a luxury not afforded to many in her community. In 2022, more than 2.2 million Latinos in Arizona were uninsured, significantly limiting access to screenings and treatment. Cassandra Webb, a program manager at the Arizona Department of Health Services, highlighted the disparities faced by uninsured individuals in obtaining vital cancer screenings.

Medical tourism is increasingly popular among Latinos, as many seek affordable care across the border in Mexico. Studies indicate that about 50% of individuals return to Mexico for routine healthcare services, driven by cost and familiarity with care providers.

Topete recalls her childhood when the financial strain of treatment nearly devastated her family. Witnessing her father’s struggles to fund her sister’s cancer care informs her current perspective. “They worried about losing the house; we lost some properties,” she reflected, illustrating the economic pressures tied to health crises.

The cumulative factors—transportation costs, time off work, and anxiety over potential medical bills—create a disincentive for seeking preventive care. “People don’t want to know they’re sick because they can’t afford to be sick,” remarked Cancer Support Community Arizona CEO, Julie Dunnigan.

Topete considers herself fortunate for her early diagnosis, emphasizing the role of her supportive network and quality healthcare. “I really do believe that it’s because I have really good health care,” she expressed, a thought that resonates deeply in light of her community’s struggles.