Mortality Rates Show Encouraging Declines
New data from the American Cancer Society reveals that breast cancer death rates among Black women are slowly improving in many U.S. cities.
From 2013 to 2024, several major metropolitan areas saw declines. Virginia Beach reported a 21% drop, while Philadelphia’s rate fell by 16%. Even small improvements in cities like Memphis (-2.3%) and St. Louis (-1.6%) show progress.
However, not all regions improved. In Dallas, mortality rose by 2.7%, showing that disparities in care remain a concern.
Persistent Gaps in Care
Despite declining death rates, Black women continue to face higher mortality compared to white women. On average, Black women have a 38% higher death rate even though their incidence of breast cancer is about 5% lower.
Experts say systemic factors drive these gaps. Sonja Hughes, MD, Vice President of Community Health at Susan G. Komen, explained, “We’re seeing some improvement, but not across the board.” Unequal access to care, underinsurance, and longer travel to hospitals contribute to these disparities.
Access to Quality Screening Matters
Black women are less likely to receive mammograms at facilities with the latest technology. Follow-up after abnormal screenings is often delayed, which can impact treatment success.
Community health coalitions are helping bridge these gaps. Nonprofits, hospitals, and faith-based organizations work together to improve screening, diagnostics, and access to care.
Tumor Biology Adds Another Challenge
Another critical factor is biology. Black women are about 2.7 times more likely than white women to develop triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive form that progresses quickly.
Linda Goler Blount, MPH, president and CEO of Black Women’s Health Imperative, emphasized, “Women of different races who have the same exact diagnosis, treatment, and care will have the same exact outcome.” This underscores the importance of equitable access to advanced care and early detection.
Policy and Community Efforts Can Make a Difference
Policy changes, including Medicaid expansion in some regions, could help reduce inequities. Combined with grassroots community efforts, these strategies aim to ensure timely diagnosis and consistent treatment for Black women nationwide.
While disparities remain, the declines in cities like Virginia Beach and Philadelphia show that progress is possible. Continued focus on access, equity, and community support can save more lives.
