Popular beauty influencer Jessica Pettway tragically passed away last month at age 36 due to cervical cancer, as reported by E! Online. As a Black physician, wife, and mother, her story deeply resonates with me, highlighting the increased mortality rates and dismissals of Black women in healthcare. Pettway’s experience underscores the importance of health screenings and self-advocacy for women, urging them not to normalize extreme symptoms and seek proper care.
Jessica Pettway’s journey with cervical cancer began with misdiagnoses of fibroids, leading to a late-stage cancer diagnosis. Her story emphasizes the importance of early detection and taking symptoms seriously to prevent such tragedies.
Cervical Cancer: Silent Symptoms, Dismissed Signs
Cervical cancer poses a significant risk to women, especially Black women who are more likely to develop and die from the disease. Regular screenings and awareness of symptoms are crucial to early detection and treatment, as silent symptoms can easily be dismissed or overlooked.
Remove Doubt, Trust Yourself
Women are encouraged to trust their instincts and seek medical attention without doubt or hesitation. Self-advocacy, timely screenings, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential to ensuring proper care and treatment.