Breast cancer is often thought of as a disease that primarily affects older women, but for young Black women, the reality is starkly different. Research shows that Black women under 35 are diagnosed with breast cancer at twice the rate of their white counterparts and are three times more likely to die from it. Recognizing this alarming disparity, For the Love of My Gurls (LMG) was created to provide young Black women with the education, resources, and advocacy they need to take control of their breast health. 

A Campaign Rooted in Community & Action 

Founded under TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, For the Love of My Gurls was developed with a clear mission—supporting young Black women in breast health awareness and early detection. While scientific advancements in breast cancer research are ongoing, this initiative is focused on what can be done today to save lives. 

From the start, LMG was built with the voices of young Black women at the forefront. The campaign’s Advisory Board, made up of 23 diverse women aged 18-35, provides insight into the real experiences, challenges, and lifestyles of young Black women. Every decision—from the campaign’s messaging to the website’s design—has been shaped by these women to ensure that it meets the needs of the community it serves. 

Three Core Actions for Black Breast Health 

At the heart of For the Love of My Gurls are three key calls to action that every young Black woman can take to advocate for her health: 

1. Believe That Black Breast Health is Real 

Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer, and recent research shows that Black breast cancer cells may differ biologically from white breast cancer cells—potentially impacting treatment effectiveness. Recognizing the unique nature of Black breast health is the first step toward better advocacy and care. 

2. Unlock Your HERstory 

Family health history plays a critical role in breast cancer risk. Many Black women have a history of breast cancer in their families but lack genetic markers, making awareness and proactive screening even more essential. LMG encourages women to explore their “HERstory”—a detailed family health record that can help them advocate for early detection and appropriate screenings. 

3. Get to Know Your Gurls as Self-Care 

Breast self-exams aren’t just about looking for lumps—they’re about knowing what’s normal for your body. By making self-exams a monthly habit, young Black women can detect changes early and seek medical guidance when needed. The LMG website provides accessible guides, including resources from Know Your Lemons and YSC’s Tick Check, to help women learn how to check their breasts properly. 

Bringing Resources to Where Black Women Live, Work & Play 

Traditional health outreach doesn’t always reach young Black women. That’s why LMG takes a different approach—bringing breast health education directly into the spaces where Black women are. The campaign has been active at churches, festivals, colleges, workplaces, and even weddings, making sure women can access information in environments where they feel comfortable and supported. 

By partnering with organizations like the WNBA, HBCUs, and major health advocates, LMG is expanding its reach and ensuring that more women have access to lifesaving education and screening options. 

The Power of Partnership & Accessible Screening 

One of the most significant barriers to early detection is the lack of accessible screening options for young women. Mammograms are typically not recommended until age 40, leaving younger women with limited alternatives. That’s why LMG collaborates with organizations like Bexa Equity Alliance (BEA) to offer radiation-free breast exams. These screenings provide a critical early detection tool for women who may not have access to traditional imaging due to age, insurance, or pregnancy. 

A New Home for LMG: The Launch of Its Own Website 

On February 14, 2025, For the Love of My Gurls launched its own standalone website, creating a dedicated space for young Black women to find breast health resources, educational tools, and support. The website includes: 
✔ HERstory Worksheet – A digital tool to help women track their family health history. 
✔ Self-Exam Guides – Step-by-step instructions and videos on how to perform breast self-exams. 
✔ Young Moms Section – Special resources tailored to mothers navigating breast health post-pregnancy. 
✔ News & Events – Information on upcoming outreach efforts and partnerships. 

Spreading Awareness & Changing the Narrative 

LMG is not just about education—it’s about shifting the culture around Black breast health. Through its Pink Table Talk web series, My Monthly Moment self-exam videos, and active presence on social media, LMG is ensuring that young Black women have the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their health. For the Love of My Gurls is on a mission to make breast health a priority for young Black women everywhere. Because early detection saves lives—and Black women deserve access to the resources they need to protect their futures.