Breast Cancer Rates Rise, Still Declining Deaths
Breast cancer rates have increased by 1% annually over the past decade, with the sharpest surge in women under 50, according to a report released by the American Cancer Society.
### Trends in Breast Cancer
The American Cancer Society released its biennial report on breast cancer trends during the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The good news is that breast cancer mortality rates continue to decrease, thanks to advances in early detection and treatment. However, future progress may be limited by increasing incidence, particularly among younger women, as well as the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as delayed diagnoses due to interruptions in screenings.
### Women Under 50: Unusual Rise in Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Younger women have a significantly higher increase in breast cancer diagnosis rates compared to their older counterparts. Researchers aim to understand this trend’s underlying causes.
### Racial Disparities in Breast Cancer Detection and Mortality
Disparities in Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Black women have a substantially lower survival rate for breast cancer than white women, regardless of the disease stage. In Georgia, statistics show that Black women in the state are 39% more likely to pass away from breast cancer.
ACS’s Effort to Address Disparities
The American Cancer Society aims to address these disparities, particularly through its initiative entitled VOICES of Black Women, which targets women ranging from 25 to 55 years old. A recent study discovered that obesity rates may contribute to surging cancer cases in early adulthood.
Additionally, breast cancers are more prevalent in obese individuals. Research indicates multiple types of cancer, but the study focused on
colorectal cancer to be a rising issue of concern.
Conclusion
The prognosis for breast cancer has consistently improved due to advances and early detection. Despite strides made, disparities in diagnostics and mortality persist, such as in the case in Georgia, where Black female breast cancer mortality rates deviate from those of white women. Researchers still need to understand the causes of the increase in breast cancer diagnoses among younger groups and to find a successful solution to these racial disparties.
