In the battle against breast cancer, it’s often viewed as a women’s issue, but many Black men in Houston are actively involved in raising awareness and supporting the fight.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. It accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers yearly. In 2024, the American Cancer Society projects the following rates of breast cancer in the US. Women will receive a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer in approximately 310,720 new cases, and an estimated 42,250 people will lose their lives to breast cancer.
Their stories of care, advocacy, and dedication not only shine a light on the importance of male support in this struggle but also demonstrate how breast cancer affects families and communities.
Dr. John Standford, PhD, CEO of Foston International Communications Inc., supported the fight against breast cancer when two of his sisters were diagnosed with the disease at a young age. “I became concerned and involved with breast cancer,” Standford recalls. “I initially started supporting the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness, and then in 2012, I discovered a Black organization focused on African American women with breast cancer, Sister’s Network, Inc.”
His experience motivated him to raise awareness and emphasized the importance of building a community of men supporting women through such difficult times. Standford founded a support group called “Brothers Helping Sisters,” which aimed to encourage Black men to get involved and educate themselves about breast cancer. This initiative became a critical pillar of support for families and individuals battling the disease, especially within the African American community.
We may not develop breast cancer ourselves, but someone in our circle, a family member, or a friend might.
Dr. John Standford, PhD
The Learning Process
Dr. Standford’s involvement in breast cancer advocacy taught him the emotional and physical toll the disease takes on women. “When my sister was first diagnosed, she went through a range of emotions, and so did our family,” he reflects.
Watching a loved one endure chemotherapy and its side effects, such as significant weight gain and hair loss, was a painful experience. “She had always been vibrant and healthy, and seeing her go through that change was devastating,” he says.
Stanford’s family rallied together, providing emotional support and practical assistance, from attending medical appointments to helping with day-to-day needs. He realized that the role of men in breast cancer awareness is not just about raising awareness but also about being there for their loved ones in every possible way—emotionally, mentally, and physically.
He also learned the importance of addressing breast cancer beyond just the family level. Stanford believes men must be more proactive in educating themselves and the wider community.
“We may not develop breast cancer ourselves, but someone in our circle, a family member, or a friend might,” he says. Men can play a vital role by promoting early detection, understanding treatment options, and advocating for loved ones.
In Houston, notable figures like Congressman Al Green and former Houston City Councilman Dwight Boykins have joined efforts to support breast cancer awareness in the Black community. Their involvement alongside everyday men like Dr. Stanford shows that support extends beyond the household—it’s a community effort.
Stanford’s organization, Brothers Helping Sisters, created a platform for Black men to stand alongside their wives, mothers, sisters and daughters. It encouraged them to be vocal, participate in fundraising events and push for policies promoting better healthcare access and treatment options for women of color. Though the group’s activities slowed during the pandemic, the message remains clear: men can and should be active participants in the fight against breast cancer.
IT Consultant Roland Shaw’s journey into breast cancer advocacy was shaped by personal tragedy. He lost his mother to breast cancer when he was just 14 years old.
“I remember feeling helpless as I watched her fight a disease that took so much from her,” Shaw said. “It left a deep mark on me, and I knew I had to do something to honor her memory.”
As an adult, Shaw became increasingly aware of the lack of male involvement in breast cancer advocacy.
“It was troubling to see so many men step back when it comes to supporting the women in their lives during these times,” he says. Motivated by his mother’s legacy, he changed the narrative.
“Men need to be more than just passive supporters. We have to be active advocates.”
Shaw started his “Brothers Prostate and Health Education Foundation” initiative, focusing on raising awareness and educating men about the disease.
“It’s vital for men to step up and support the women in their lives,” he states. “Breast cancer is not just a women’s issue; it’s a family issue, a community issue. The more we talk about it, the more we can break the stigma and encourage early detection.”
He emphasizes the significance of education in advocacy.
“We need to educate ourselves about breast cancer, its risks, and its impact. When men understand that they can be a part of this fight, they become advocates for their loved ones,” he explains.
Shaw also stresses the power of unity: “When we come together as a community, we can create a powerful support system. Our voices matter, and we can make a difference.”
Shaw offers simple but powerful advice for men who are still determining how they can contribute.
“Start by being more concerned,” Shaw said. “Ask questions, seek answers and get involved.”
He encourages men to engage with organizations like Sister’s Network, Inc., the National Breast Cancer Foundation, or local breast cancer support groups. These platforms give men the information and tools to become advocates, allies, and caregivers.
Most importantly, Standford emphasizes the need for empathy and active support. Whether accompanying a loved one to their treatments, helping with research, or simply being there to listen, men have an essential role in this fight. “You don’t have to be a doctor or scientist to make a difference,” he says. “Sometimes, the best thing you can do is just be present.”
