File this under the sad but true category. A recent study conducted by The University of Michigan reveals that minority women with breast cancer know far less about their treatment options and survival rates than white woman. That, of course, is not the reason we are more likely to die from the disease. But seriously, we’re not helping ourselves here.

It is the opposite mentality of “knowledge is power” when you think that not doing your research is a good thing. I’m sure we are scared, terrified even, but taking an active role in our treatment can’t hurt us. We need to know whether a mastectomy is better than a lumpectomy with radiation and how each will impact our ability to reach the five-year survival rate. We also need to know about the likelihood of reoccurence. Only 34% of black women knew the correct answer about survival and were more likely to say “I don’t know” when asked about the likelihood of their cancer returning. This is a case where ignorance could be fatal.

One of the fascinating things about this study is that it pointed out that it all boils down to understanding what doctors are saying when they break down the treatment options.  I think we may be too embarrassed to ask them to explain further. That’s why it may be a good idea to bring a family member or a friend with you who can ask the questions when you can’t. This is no time to stand on ceremony. This is about our lives so be informed.

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