Higher Loco-Regional Recurrences in African American Women with Terminal Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Gerardo Colón-Otero, Sherry King, Vandelyn Smith, Carolyn Bieber, Julia Crook, Lawrence A. Solberg, Robert Shannon, Edith A. Perez
Primary Institution: Mayo Clinic Cancer Center
Hypothesis
Are African American women with terminal breast cancer more likely to experience loco-regional recurrences than Caucasian women?
Conclusion
African American women with terminal breast cancer may have a higher incidence of loco-regional failure compared to Caucasian women.
Supporting Evidence
- Evidence of loco-regional recurrence was noted in 13% of the women evaluated.
- The incidence of loco-regional recurrence was higher in African American women (26%) compared to Caucasian women (10%).
- Delays in diagnosis due to lack of insurance were noted as a contributing factor.
- Many cancer survivors may not be vigilant about loco-regional recurrence after five years.
Takeaway
This study found that African American women with advanced breast cancer are more likely to have cancer come back in the same area than white women.
Methodology
A prospective study evaluated 134 women with terminal breast cancer for loco-regional recurrences upon hospice admission.
Potential Biases
AA families may be less willing to consent to study participation compared to Caucasian families.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and lacked power calculations, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
80% Caucasian, 17% African American, 3% other ethnicities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.08
Statistical Significance
p = 0.08
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