Vox Populi:

Black women are 42 percent more likely than White women to die from breast cancer disease at every age. This is despite Black women having approximately the same incidence of breast cancer as White women, although higher in women under age 45 and lower over that age.

Some of this disparity comes from higher incidence of more aggressive hormone receptor negative tumors in young Black women; the reasons for this disparity in subtypes is unknown. A host of possible associations for the mortality disparity have been explored, with none offering a singular definitive answer. They include genetic mutations, less physical activity, poorer diet, higher prevalence of obesity and lower levels of Vitamin D. They also include medical mistrust, more reliance on spirituality rather than doctors, and reproductive and breastfeeding practices. Researchers have also considered ties between low socioeconomic status and decreased mammography screening, less health insurance, inability to take time off from work for medical care, and ultimately, inadequate treatment. 

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