Study Shows Higher Mortality Rate for Black Women Across All Breast Cancer Subtypes

A recent study has revealed that black women face a higher risk of death from all types of breast cancer compared to white women. Previous studies have already pointed out the higher mortality rate among black women with breast cancer, but the new study further suggests that this disparity is more attributed to systemic differences rather than differences in breast cancer types.

Experts emphasize that the healthcare system must address barriers in treatment, closely monitor patient conditions, and ensure that no one in need is left behind. Although the incidence of breast cancer is similar among black and white women, the likelihood of black women dying from the disease is approximately 40% higher.

The new study, published in the September issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, points out that this mortality disparity stems not only from biological factors but also from socioeconomic inequalities, diagnostic delays, and systemic racism, among other factors.

Dr. Jasmine Miller-Kleinhenz, an assistant professor of population health at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, notes, "Regardless of the subtype of breast cancer, black women have a greater risk of dying from it. This is crucial because it indicates that these health disparities are not solely determined by tumor biology but are influenced by social and structural factors related to health."

The research team analyzed 18 studies published between 2009 and 2022, involving 34,262 black patients and 182,466 white patients with stage I to IV breast cancer. The results showed that black women have a 50% higher risk of dying from hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative tumors and a 34% higher risk of dying from hormone receptor-positive/HER2-positive tumors compared to white women. For the more aggressive hormone receptor-negative tumors, black women have a 20% and 17% higher chance of dying from HER2-positive and HER2-negative tumors, respectively.

Dr. Erica Warner, a cancer epidemiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, points out that although the higher incidence of triple-negative breast cancer among black women is a significant factor, the tumor subtype itself cannot fully explain the differences in survival rates. She explains that although hormone receptor-positive tumors are easier to detect through mammography and have more treatment options, this also creates "more care gaps," which may be one of the reasons for the wider mortality disparity between races.

The study also found that the cost of follow-up imaging for breast cancer is an obstacle to treatment. Black women face more difficulties in accessing medical services, socioeconomic security, and cultural challenges, leading to disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, black women are more likely to have other conditions that increase the risk of breast cancer, such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

To narrow the disparity in breast cancer mortality rates, experts call for systemic changes, including improving timely and high-quality care, ensuring that all women, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, have access to the same advanced treatments and clinical trials. Healthcare systems should track breast cancer patients and use demographic factors to identify and address gaps in treatment.

Furthermore, more research is needed to investigate how various structural, social, and environmental health drivers affect communities. Experts emphasize that healthcare professionals should also play a role in raising awareness about healthcare disparities affecting patients and taking action to ensure equal access to healthcare.