Black women have a breast cancer mortality rate 3.8 times higher than that of white women.
This finding comes from Racial Disparities in Breast Cancer Incidence, a publication by Brazil’s National Cancer Institute (INCA) and the first volume in its series Racial Disparities and Breast Cancer: A Look at the Health of Black Women. The report was released on Tuesday (Oct. 27), coinciding with the Brazilian National Day of Mobilization for the Health of the Black Population in the country.
Renata Maciel, coordinator of INCA’s early detection division, explains that although breast cancer incidence is higher among white women, the study found that mortality rates are higher among black women.
“[This finding] may be related to access to early diagnosis and treatment within the health care system,” Maciel said.
“Black women have a higher incidence of the triple-negative subtype, which is more aggressive.”
She also notes that evidence suggests breast cancer screening among asymptomatic women is less common among black women. The analysis focused on women aged 50 to 69. “White women undergo these preventive exams more frequently in this age group.”
For INCA Director-General Roberto Gil, the survey shows that women may develop more aggressive forms of breast cancer and face greater barriers to health care, potentially leading to later diagnoses.
“The study highlights the need to develop equitable public policies that ensure equal access to health care for all population groups,” Gil noted.
In terms of prevention, the director pointed out that black women consume more alcohol than women from other ethnicities. “Alcohol consumption is linked to breast cancer,” he said.
Inequality
Socioeconomic inequalities, barriers to accessing health care, and stress associated with living conditions may contribute to racial disparities in breast cancer incidence.
The publication also emphasizes the importance of considering ancestry-related and genetic factors to better understand these disparities.
The document recommends strengthening prevention and health promotion policies to reduce modifiable risk factors, such as obesity and alcohol consumption, while encouraging protective practices, including healthy eating, physical activity, and breastfeeding. These measures aim to improve health outcomes, particularly among the most vulnerable populations.
Artisan Solange Barbosa de Freitas, 57, was diagnosed with breast cancer after undergoing routine screening during a Pink October campaign in 2019. She highlighted she had no symptoms at the time.
“The disease was considered serious. I underwent three surgeries, including a mastectomy and breast reconstruction.”
She says she never knew her father’s side of the family, but on her mother’s side, she was the first to develop breast cancer.
Statistics
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Brazil. Approximately four in five cases are diagnosed in women aged 50 and older.
It is estimated that approximately 17 percent of breast cancer cases could be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, such as breastfeeding, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol.
Source: Agência Brasil