Medical experts believe ovarian cancer more likely to affect Hispanic community in future years

Medical experts expect ovarian cancer to grow more prevalent in the U.S. within the hispanic community– even though it’s less of a threat to the rest of the population.

“The projected growth is substantial. Over the last ten years, in every state, there has been a doubling of numbers within the Hispanic population,” said Matthew Schlumbrecht, MC, gynecologic oncologist at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Gilbert. “This is a population which has been generally been underserved with preventative and educational programs.”

Experts like Schlumbrecht believe education is key to increasing awareness of ovarian cancer in Hispanic women and increasing their knowledge about their bodies, the risk factors and treatments available will empower women to seek medical attention.

Dr. Schlumbrecht is leading a study, now in its second phase, in partnership with the Mesa Public Schools Family Literacy Program. Mesa was selected because one-quarter of the city’s population is Hispanic and one-third born outside of the United States.