The United States continues to witness a decline in breast cancer mortality rates, a new report indicates.
However, alarming trends have emerged, particularly among younger women, highlighting a growing incidence rate.
The recent report from the American Cancer Society reveals a 1% annual increase in breast cancer cases from 2012 to 2021.This upward trend is especially noticeable in women under 50.
Chief Executive Officer of the American Cancer Society, Karen Knudsen, voiced her concerns, noting a higher diagnosis rate among women below 50 compared to those above 50.
A separate study earlier this year corroborated these findings, indicating a rise in breast cancer cases among women aged 20 to 49 over the past two decades.
Researchers analysed data dating back to 1975, identifying stark differences in breast cancer incidence and mortality based on race and region.Black women face a 38% higher death rate than White women, despite being 5% less likely to develop the disease.
Dr. William Dahut highlighted that young Black women, in particular, are disproportionately affected, with mortality rates twice as high as their White counterparts between the ages of 20 and 29.
Asian American and Pacific Islander women have also seen a sharp increase in breast cancer diagnosis, with rates rising 2.7% annually for those under 50 and 2.5% for those older.
Study findings also reveal geographic disparities in breast cancer incidence and mortality rates across the United States.
Incidence rates vary from 113 cases per 100,000 women in Nevada to 143 per 100,000 in North Carolina.
Similarly, mortality rates range from 15 per 100,000 women in Massachusetts to 24 per 100,000 in the District of Columbia.
The differences in incidence and mortality rates by state are attributed to a variety of factors, according to researchers.Demographic characteristics, cancer risk prevalence, mammography screening levels, and access to healthcare are all contributing elements.
Public health policies, including Medicaid expansion, also play a role in these geographic and demographic disparities.
Researchers project nearly 311,000 new invasive breast cancer cases and over 42,000 deaths due to breast cancer in the US this year.
Dr. Carmen Calfa noted that oncologists are witnessing the rising incidence of breast cancer firsthand, especially among younger women.Calfa reported a noticeable increase in younger patients being diagnosed with breast cancer compared to previous years.
Many risk factors for breast cancer overlap with other cancer types, providing potential clues for researchers investigating rising cancer rates.
Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, significantly influence cancer risk.
Calfa stressed the importance of understanding personal risk factors and advocated for preventive measures.Effective strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, moderating alcohol consumption, and considering medications like tamoxifen for high-risk individuals.
Breastfeeding and early detection through mammography are also recommended to reduce breast cancer risk.
The decline in breast cancer mortality rates in the US is a positive sign, but the rising incidence among younger women is concerning.
Focusing on preventive measures and addressing racial and geographic disparities will be crucial in reversing these troubling trends.
