Janice R. Andrews
There is no doubt that progress has been achieved in the ongoing fight against breast cancer. Over the past few decades, there has been a notable decrease in the death rate from breast cancer in the United States. This fall can be attributed to various factors, including increased access to tests, medical technological breakthroughs, and awareness efforts. Notwithstanding these advancements, a worrying pattern has surfaced: Black women continue to bear an unfair burden, with mortality rates over 40% greater than those of White women. To ensure fair access to care and design focused solutions, it is imperative to comprehend the mechanisms causing this disparity.
The increased risk and death rate of breast cancer among Black women can be attributed to four main variables, according to Dr. Sasmita Misra, a community physician at UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial: genetics, cultural norms, socioeconomic status, and access to care.
Hereditary:
Studies have indicated that Black women are more likely to have aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer, while genetic predispositions play a major part in breast cancer risk. Because of its resistance to hormone therapy, this subtype frequently requires more harsh treatment methods, such as chemotherapy and surgery. The onset and progression of the disease can be influenced by genetic variables, highlighting the significance of customised screening and treatment approaches.
Customs and Traditions:
Black women’s outcomes from breast cancer can also be influenced by cultural variables. Delays in diagnosis and the start of treatment may be caused by misconceptions, stigma, and fear associated with the condition. Additionally, screening adherence and access to preventive services may be impacted by cultural norms surrounding body image and healthcare-seeking behaviour. In order to overcome these cultural hurdles, community involvement and culturally relevant outreach programmes are needed to advance awareness, de-stigmatize the illness, and motivate proactive healthcare seeking.
Status Socioeconomico:
The death rates from breast cancer are among the health outcomes that are greatly impacted by socioeconomic differences. Socioeconomic disadvantage, such as lower income, restricted access to healthcare services, and greater rates of uninsurance, is more common among Black women. These constraints can hamper timely access to screening, diagnostic services, and excellent treatment, compounding inequities in breast cancer outcomes. Policies aiming at lowering economic inequality, increasing health insurance coverage, and enhancing underprivileged groups’ access to reasonably priced, high-quality healthcare services are all necessary components of efforts to address socioeconomic problems.
Access to Care:
Early identification and the best possible treatment of breast cancer depend on having access to comprehensive healthcare services. Access to timely and appropriate care, however, might be hampered by structural constraints like geographic location, transportation problems, and a shortage of healthcare providers. Differences in the quality of care Black women receive may also be caused by institutional racism and biases in the healthcare system. Reducing disparities in breast cancer outcomes requires strengthening healthcare infrastructure in underprivileged areas, addressing hidden biases within the healthcare system, and expanding access to patient-centered, culturally competent care.
Initiatives that raise awareness of breast cancer, boost screening rates, and facilitate access to care are crucial in addressing these issues. UChicago Medicine, for instance, is dedicated to giving all patients equal access to high-quality treatment and provides thorough breast screening services throughout Chicagoland. Healthcare professionals may empower Black women to take control of their breast health, promote early detection, and improve outcomes by implementing programmes that place a high priority on community participation, education, and outreach.
A comprehensive strategy that takes into account the intricate interactions between genetic, cultural, socioeconomic, and healthcare access determinants is needed to address the differences in breast cancer outcomes among Black women. Through campaigning for policies that prioritise health equity, developing culturally responsive practices, and promoting equity in healthcare delivery, we may work towards a future where all women have equal opportunity for improved survival from breast cancer and early detection.
