Breast cancer: Black women are 3.8 times more likely to die

Black women in Brazil have a breast cancer mortality rate 3.8 times higher than white women, according to a new report from the National Cancer Institute (INCA). The study, released on Brazilian National Day of Mobilization for the Health of the Black Population, highlights racial disparities in breast cancer incidence and mortality.

While breast cancer incidence is higher among white women, the study found mortality rates are higher among black women. This difference might be due to barriers in accessing early diagnosis and treatment within the healthcare system, as well as a higher prevalence of the more aggressive triple-negative subtype among black women.

Additionally, black women are less likely to undergo preventive exams for breast cancer. The report emphasizes the need for equitable public policies to ensure equal access to healthcare for all population groups. Factors such as socioeconomic inequalities, barriers to healthcare access, and stress associated with living conditions may contribute to these disparities.

The study also suggests that alcohol consumption, which is higher among black women, may be linked to breast cancer.