Support Our Sisters
The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) is working to create a space where Black and Hispanic women with metastatic breast cancer find hope, connection, and the tools to navigate their journey with confidence.
ISSUE BRIEF
Addressing the Complex Needs of Black and Hispanic Women with mBC
Black and Hispanic women living with metastatic breast cancer (mBC) and chronic conditions often face uniquely challenging, multi-layered barriers to care. In our latest issue brief, the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) explores findings from both national survey data and Listening Lab sessions that reveal how misaligned systems create biological, emotional, and structural burdens for these women and their caregivers.
This brief applies NMQF’s Physical Laws Framework (PLF) to examine where health systems fail—and how they can be redesigned to conserve biological order, restore balance, and deliver equitable care.
RESTORE: Medication Management Guide
The RESTORE: Medication Management guide is a simple, supportive resource for women with stage 4 breast cancer who are taking multiple medications. It explains why many medicines may be needed, offers clear tips for staying organized and safe, and highlights common challenges—especially among Black and Hispanic women—such as feeling overwhelmed or unsure about side effects. The guide encourages asking questions, speaking up, and keeping track of medicines, and it includes helpful patient quotes and links to trustworthy resources.
RESTORE: Hope in Action Guide
The RESTORE: Hope in Action guide is a supportive resource that helps women newly diagnosed with stage 4 (metastatic) breast cancer understand their diagnosis and navigate their first steps. It explains what it means when breast cancer spreads, breaks down receptor status in simple terms, and offers practical guidance for preparing for appointments, asking questions, seeking second opinions, and communicating with doctors.
Share Your Story with Us!
Whether you're a caregiver, a friend, or family member of someone with metastatic breast cancer, your words can inspire, educate, and empower others to take back their life.
Are you a Black or Hispanic woman who has been diagnosed with breast cancer?
The NMQF is conducting a survey to gather feedback on awareness and understanding of managing breast cancer and other chronic conditions. The results of this survey will inform the development of culturally relevant educational materials and resources for patients, caregivers, and providers.
Here's What We Know So Far
Preliminary Survey Results
Many respondents are managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and mental health concerns alongside their cancer treatments. While most women report strong medication adherence and trust in their doctors, many still experience side
effects and fear of missing doses.
43.9
%
Fear Missing a Dose of Their Medication
54.7
%
Experienced Negative Side Effects from Medications
44.3
%
Experience Mental Health Issues Such As Depression, Anxiety, Etc.
32.7
%
Diagnosed with Breast Cancer are 18-29 Years Old
Get the Support You Need
Join Our Facebook Group!
NMQF's Support Our Sisters: Thriving with mBC & Chronic Disease Facebook group is a safe, supportive space for Black and Hispanic women living with metastatic breast cancer—as well as the caregivers who stand beside them. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of metastatic breast cancer (mBC) or supporting someone who is, you’ll find community, resources, and strength here.

