Cancer can be defeated through screenings and lifestyle changes

Dr. Sharon Malone, a retired board-certified physician and wife of former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, delivered a powerful message of empowerment and action to a crowd of more than 500 at the Clark County Fairgrounds. Malone, on a national tour promoting her New York Times bestselling book, “Grown Woman Talk,” made a stop in Springfield the day before Mother’s Day to address the importance of early cancer screenings and taking charge of one’s health.

The event, hosted by Sisters United for Prevention, marked their 20th Anniversary Cancer Awareness Luncheon and Fashion Show. The audience was painfully aware of the impact cancer has had on the local Black community, with 36 out of 59 dining tables dedicated to those affected by cancer and all 15 models in the fashion show being survivors. The sobering reality that three Sisters are currently undergoing treatment highlighted the urgency of the message Malone was there to deliver.

Malone emphasized the importance of overcoming obstacles that prevent African Americans from accessing lifesaving screenings and treatments. She highlighted the disparities in healthcare access based on zip codes and the lack of regular access to doctors for many individuals. Despite these challenges, Malone stressed the need for individuals to take control of their own health and become the captains of their own ships.

Addressing common excuses for not seeking timely medical care, Malone urged Black women to overcome the cultural norms of suffering in silence and the fear of medical interventions. She emphasized the importance of family history in understanding one’s predisposition to certain cancers and the necessity of scheduling regular screenings.

Calling for community action against cancer, Malone encouraged attendees to innovate and educate others about the importance of early detection. The event also received a special message from singer John Legend, praising Sisters United for their dedication to the cause. Pilar Mock, the director of the Mercy Health Springfield Cancer Center, reiterated the importance of grassroots advocacy and spreading awareness about the importance of early detection.

Malone’s message of prevention and lifestyle changes resonated with the audience, as she highlighted the impact of healthy habits on reducing the risk of cancer. She emphasized the role of lifestyle choices in preventing common cancers such as colon, breast, prostate, and lung cancer. By promoting exercise, healthy eating, and stress management, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases.

In closing, Malone reiterated the importance of taking proactive steps to prioritize health and well-being. By empowering individuals to advocate for their own health and educate others about the benefits of early detection, Malone’s message serves as a powerful call to action for the community. As she reminded the audience, the same habits that reduce the risk of heart disease also decrease the risk of cancer and other serious illnesses. By following these simple steps, individuals can not only improve their overall health but also potentially save lives.