Understanding the Risk of Breast Cancer in Black Women and Why Death Rates Are Much Higher

Breasts. Bosom. Boobs. Bust. Regardless of what you call them, it’s important to know about how to take care of your breasts. For Black women, this is especially important because their rates of death from breast cancer are much higher than in other groups. And this is despite the rates of breast cancer being lower in Black women than white women. 

Let’s take a closer look at how breast cancer affects Black women and how to protect your breasts from its effects.  

Are Black women more at risk for breast cancer? 

It’s estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. But for Black women there’s more to this story. Overall, the rates of breast cancer in Black women are slightly lower than the rates of breast cancer in white women. But among those with breast cancer younger than 45 years, Black women have the highest rates. 

Although Black women are less likely to develop breast cancer in general, they’re more likely to die from it. In fact, for Black women, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death. 

What are the largest risk factors for breast cancer among Black women? 

There are several risk factors that have been linked to developing breast cancer, but they’re not specific to Black women. Some of these risk factors you can change and some others you can’t. 

Risk factors for developing breast cancer that you can change include: 

• Having a heavier body weight

• Being sedentary 

• Taking hormone replacement 

• Excessive alcohol use

Risk factors for developing breast cancer that you cannot change include:

• Genetic mutations (like the BRCA gene)

• Aging

• Family history

• Previous radiation exposure

• Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure

What is the breast cancer survival rate among Black women?

On average, Black women have a 5-year survival rate of 82% for breast cancer. This means that 82% of Black women are still alive 5 years after their initial diagnosis. But, Black women have the lowest 5-year survival rate for breast cancer when compared with all other races and ethnic groups. White women, for example, have an overall 5-year survival rate of 92%. 

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There are likely many factors affecting the decrease in survival rate for Black women. Black women are more likely to:

• Develop a more aggressive form of breast cancer

• Tend to get diagnosed at later stages

• Have more delays in treatment

How often should Black women get screened for breast cancer? 

Black women of average risk should start receiving yearly mammograms at age 40. In addition to that, it’s important to have a regular breast examination by your healthcare provider. 

If you’re considered at higher risk for breast cancer you may have a different screening timeline than others. If you have any of the risk factors mentioned above, talk with your healthcare provider about a plan to start screening for breast cancer as soon as possible. Early detection (and treatment) can give you the best chance of survival if you develop breast cancer. 

Is a breast self-exam necessary?

Yes, you should have your breasts examined by your healthcare provider on a regular basis. But, you should also be very familiar with your breasts and how they normally look and feel. A breast self-exam is not formally recommended for breast cancer screening. But, if you choose to do so, breast self-exams may be used along regular mammograms. 

The more you examine yourself, the more familiar you’ll be with your breasts and the less likely you’d be to miss something. And if you find any concerning lumps, bumps or skin changes, speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

What are the first signs or symptoms of breast cancer? 

There aren’t always signs or symptoms of breast cancer — especially in its early stages. But there are a few breast changes that you should take note of and reach out to your healthcare provider if you notice them. Breast cancer symptoms you should look out for include:

• Breast lump

• Nipple discharge

• Breast skin dimpling or rash

• Inverted (pulling-in) nipple

• Breast thickening or swelling

• Scaly or flaky skin around the nipple

• Nipple or breast pain

• Any changes to the size, shape, or symmetry of the breast or nipple

How can we prevent breast cancer in the Black community? 

Understanding your risk and taking appropriate action is key in trying to prevent the devastating effects of breast cancer in the Black community. It’s important to know what risk factors you may have that can increase your likelihood of developing breast cancer. This can lead to early screening, detection, and treatment. 

It’s also important to talk with your family members if possible. Find out if there’s any family history of breast cancer in your mother, grandmothers, aunts, or cousins. You can even ask about the males in your family, as breast cancer can also develop in men. 

Certain lifestyle modifications may also help to lower your risk of developing breast cancer. These include:

• Staying active

• Maintaining a healthy body weight for you

• Decreasing the amount of alcohol you drink

Your healthcare provider can help you figure out what steps you need to take for breast cancer screening and if you’re at higher risk. 

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Written by:

Valerie Emuakhagbon, MD

Valerie Emuakhagbon, MD, is a board-certified colorectal surgeon. A native of Dallas, Texas, she completed the six-year BA/MD program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

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