Ignorance and poverty holding back Jamaicans in war on cancer

Founder of the Misty Blue Cancer Care Foundation, Dorothy Satchwell, is urging Jamaicans, especially young people, to learn their family health history and to take early screening seriously, warning that ignorance and poverty continue to cost lives across the island.

Speaking at a breast cancer awareness forum held at Godfrey Stewart High School in Savanna-la-Mar last Thursday, Satchwell shared her own journey as a survivor and emphasised how critical early detection and knowledge of one’s genetic background can be in saving lives.

According to Satchwell, her doctor wouldn’t have been able to recommend her for early testing if she hadn’t been open about her family history.

“I probably would [not] have gotten diagnosed or probably drop down dead and then go autopsy then realise that I have breast cancer. So you understand all the importance of knowing your family history, health history.”

Satchwell explained that many people are unaware of the genetic factors that can increase their risk for breast cancer.

“It allows you to start screening in time,” she said. “There are some cancers that you are at higher risk for because of your blood, your DNA, your hereditary genetics.”

The foundation founder shared that, although breast cancer did not run in her family, her curiosity to know her genetic background prompted her to get tested early.

“When I went to do the genetic test, I didn’t have breast cancer. It wasn’t genetically connected. There were other things, but at least because I knew about my genetics, I was able to go and get tested,” she said.

Be honest about paternity

However, her message does not stop at the scientific aspect, but also the social element of it. She passionately urged parents to be honest about their children’s paternity, explaining that secrecy can put a child’s health at risk later in life.

“Sometimes, unfortunately, men and women get into multiple relationships at one time. And then you get pregnant,” she said. “So when you get pregnant … you give the pickney (to another man). So guess what happens? That child will be deprived of (their) family history.”

Satchwell also reminded the audience not to judge others’ experiences with the disease.

“Every cancer experience, every cancer journey is different,” she said. “If you get cancer three times, three different journeys, three different experiences. And that is why we should not make assumptions about people and their diagnosis.”

During the event, Satchwell was joined by Dr Jean Powell, who gave insight into the genetic factors behind breast cancer, particularly among people of African descent.

“We have what’s called a BRCA (breast cancer) gene,” Powell said. “And some persons have traced this gene back to the Motherland. It doesn’t mean that we have more than the (other) race, but we have a specific gene that causes breast cancer in black women, or black men.”

The World Health Organization has identified breast cancer as the most prevalent cancer worldwide, and genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are a major factor in hereditary breast and ovarian cancers.

Powell warned that too many young Jamaican women are being diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer.

“Right here in Westmoreland, we have young women who are showing up with stage-4 breast cancer. That should not be,” she said. “They are 30 years and younger. So, young women in the room, children, tell your mothers again. Check their breasts every month.”

Satchwell echoed the call, emphasising the need for regular screenings and self-examinations.

Still, many Jamaican women fail to get mammograms, either because of fear, poverty, or lack of information. She shared that, in 2022, 24 of the 1,350 cancer deaths in Westmoreland were caused by breast cancer due to these factors.

“For you to access the mammogram, on average it is between $12,000 and $15,000,” she explained. “During the month of October, you will find some of the labs will give you a discount … but because of poverty, the cancer kills you in poverty.”

Meanwhile, Debbie Walters-Kilbourne, a current breast cancer patient in her 50s, shared her emotional journey of diagnosis and how she copes.

“It was a bit scary, but, you know, I trust in the Lord,” she said. “In October I went and did the mammogram. I was sponsored by Ms Satchwell.”

She said the mammogram led to further testing.

“They said I have to do a biopsy,” she recalled. “After doing the biopsy, I was told that I have breast cancer.”

A natural route

Despite medical advice to continue with chemotherapy, Walters-Kilbourne chose a natural route.

“I did the surgery in February. I started the natural treatment in March,” she said. “At times it is kind of difficult, but I am pushing through. I am doing my exercise and everything else.”

The emotional toll was heavy, but she remains hopeful.

“It took an emotional toll on me,” she admitted. “But I try my best each day not to think about the negative part of cancer. Because if I think about it, I don’t think I would be here right now.”

She said her faith and her family keep her strong.

“I get my strength from the Lord and from my children. I am feeling great … I will try to be positive and put God in the midst of everything.”

The forum at Godfrey Stewart High was one of several that will be held across Westmoreland and other parishes this month as part of Breast Cancer Awareness activities led by the Misty Blue Cancer Care Foundation.

To honour her journey, Satchwell continues to advocate for health awareness and encourage early screening. However, she noted that many people still struggle to afford tests, especially mammograms, something she has been tackling by offering sponsored mammograms.

Her biggest challenge, she said, has been the limited corporate support for these initiatives.

Looking ahead to the Faith Gifford Breast Cancer Symposium on October 16 at Sandals Whitehouse, Satchwell hopes for a strong turnout. While only a few attendees will receive free mammogram sponsorships this time, she remains optimistic that as her advocacy grows, so too will the support and funding.

mickalia.kington@gleanerjm.com