Breast cancer affects us all, even if we’re not the one with it.
In the Black community, especially, the far-reaching impacts of this disease cannot be overstated. Whether through personal diagnosis, a sister’s journey, a mother’s fight, or a friend’s quiet strength, it’s often there for all to see.
Sadly, Black Americans are particularly embattled by this condition. Not just more likely to be affected, but more likely to face dire outcomes as a result. According to the latest research, Black women face a roughly 40 percent higher mortality rate from breast cancer. And unfortunately, it doesn’t end there. They are also more likely to be diagnosed at younger ages—often before 50—and when they are diagnosed, it’s more likely to be an aggressive subtype, such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
So what can be done?
We often hear of the importance of getting screened with mammograms, but these realities of breast cancer among Black women raise an important question: Are standard annual 2D mammograms truly enough?
Let’s break down the science, so you can start making informed decisions starting today.
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While it’s important to know that Black women are disproportionately affected by aggressive breast cancers diagnosed at younger ages, the question is – why?
When it comes to triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), this question is particularly relevant. That’s because TNBC is not like other subtypes of breast cancer. It lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors and is about twice as common in Black women compared to white women. As a result, the tumors grow faster and are more likely to pop up between breast cancer screenings.
For young Black women under the age of 40, the risk of mortality from such aggressive subtypes may be up to double that of other racial groups.
The reasons for this are multifold. For one, Black women have a higher prevalence of mutations in the BRCA gene, a gene responsible for suppressing tumors and repairing damaged DNA. Moreover, the TRIM37 protein is also elevated in Black women, further leading to the suppression of proteins that would fight tumor development. Combined with lower access to quality healthcare and a lack of culturally competent specialists, it’s no wonder so many Black women face higher rates of breast cancer.
Then you have to consider the issue of diagnosis. Diagnoses often occur at later stages, partly due to faster-growing biology and sometimes due to delays in follow-up care.
This is where standard 2D mammography has its limitations. These mammograms can miss fast-growing tumors that appear between annual screens. And, in denser breast tissue common in younger Black women, 2D images may actually obscure or ‘hide’ abnormalities.
Remember, both dense tissue and tumors appear white, so unless there is a deep analysis, tumors may be mistaken for healthy tissue. Overall, studies show that 2D mammograms have significantly lower sensitivity for aggressive cancers.
According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), women should begin screening every two years starting at age 40. However, many experts from the American College of Radiology say that this is not enough. These specialists actually recommend risk assessment starting as early as 25 to 30 for all women, with a special emphasis on Black women.
The thing is, even with similar screening rates, many late-stage diagnoses still occur. This just further proves the need for more nuanced protocols that are based on tumor biology, and not uniformity across all women.
Fortunately, there are numerous ways to make this happen.
For better detection, alternative imaging methods are essential. 3D Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) is one option, and it works by acquiring multiple images from different angles to create a layered view of the breast. In some studies, this procedure detects up to 65 percent more invasive cancers than 2D alone – a huge game-changer!
It also performs better in dense tissue by minimizing overlap. The only drawback is that many marginalized communities have lower access to DBT, meaning that advocacy and awareness are key to increasing access.
In addition to DBT, ultrasound and MRI are solid supplementary techniques for higher-risk women and those with denser breast tissue. For instance, MRI is particularly useful for aggressive subtypes. Its main drawbacks, however, are cost and availability, so it’s always important to discuss these options with your gynecologist and radiologist.
Some other cutting-edge alternative techniques include thermography and the latest AI tools. Infrared thermography, for one, is pretty fascinating because it detects heat patterns associated with increased blood flow or tumor metabolism. It’s also non-invasive, radiation-free, and totally painless. When paired with AI enhancements, thermography can detect the vast majority (up to 95 percent) of tumors.
As always, you should pair any alternative procedure with standard imaging and clinical evaluation. Personalization here is key. Risk assessment tools will incorporate your family history, genetics, breast density, and ancestry to guide you toward the best possible examination and detection options.
RELATED: Certain Women May Need Mammograms Before Age 40 — An Expert Explains Why
Staying ahead of potential breast cancer is about smart vigilance, self-awareness, and a little bit of medical knowledge. Sure, you’re not a doctor, but simply knowing about available options can go a long way in preventing and treating any issues that come up.
Know your normal. Make sure you look and feel your breasts monthly, ideally a few days after your period ends. To ensure you’re performing the best self-assessment, use the pads of your three middle fingers in circular motions, covering from collarbone to bra line, and armpit to cleavage. It’s also important to vary pressure. Be light at the skin level, medium in deeper tissues, and firm near the chest wall.
Always check in front of a mirror for changes in size, shape, dimpling, redness, or nipple inversion – and also, when you’re lying down.
If you notice any changes or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to report to your doctor. Any new lump, thickening, swelling, skin changes, nipple discharge, or persistent pain in one spot should be reported.
And last but not least, lead a lifestyle you feel good about!
Up to 30 percent of breast cancers are linked to modifiable factors. For Black women especially, it’s important to focus on five main areas of health & wellness.
These include:
To help improve these areas of health & wellness, you can also embrace naturopathic remedies and habits. For instance, deep diaphragmatic breathing (belly breathing) is a great way to support your body’s detoxification, reduce stress, and boost immune function. Try five to 10 minutes daily. Inhale deeply through the nose for four counts, hold briefly, and then exhale slowly. A gentle self-massage can complement this to improve circulation as well.
And don’t forget your roots! African traditions emphasize many herbal remedies, and there’s scientific evidence to support them. For example, turmeric is a potent antioxidant that may exert antiproliferative effects on tumors. Meanwhile, items such as ginger, garlic, and green tea have been shown to complement modern treatments and procedures.
At the end of the day, you deserve it. You deserve care that sees you fully and understands the unique factors that make breast cancer different for you. Don’t be bashful. Schedule that conversation with your doctor, and if you feel that you and your doctor just aren’t on the same page, don’t hesitate to make the change.
Your health is non-negotiable. Stand strong, be your best advocate, and live the life you deserve. You’ve got this!
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