October 23, 2023 – The Williamson Group, LLC

History of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the breast tissue. It is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women, although it can also occur in men. The history of breast cancer dates back thousands of years, and our understanding of the disease has evolved over time.

Ancient medical texts from ancient Egypt, dating back to around 1600 BCE, mentioned tumors in the breast. Some of these texts described a condition similar to breast cancer, referring to it as a “bulging mass” that could not be treated.

In ancient Greece, the physician Hippocrates (c. 460–370 BCE) described breast cancer as a systemic disease that could spread to other parts of the body. However, for many centuries, little progress was made in understanding or treating the disease.

It wasn’t until the 17th century that medical advancements began to shed more light on breast cancer. Researchers such as Thomas Paget, William Halsted, and George Beatson made major contributions to our understanding of breast cancer, including the identification of different types of tumors and the development of surgical techniques for their removal.

In the 20th century, advancements in medical technology and research further improved our understanding of breast cancer. The introduction of mammography in the 1960s allowed for earlier detection of tumors. The discovery of tumor markers and hormonal therapies in the following decades revolutionized treatment options.

Breast cancer awareness campaigns, such as the pink ribbon movement, gained momentum in the late 20th century and continue to raise public awareness about the disease.

Today, breast cancer research focuses on developing more effective diagnostic tools, personalized treatment options, and exploring the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of the disease.

It is important to note that while significant progress has been made in understanding and treating breast cancer, it remains a serious health issue. Regular self-examinations, mammograms, and medical check-ups are crucial for early detection and successful treatment. If you have any concerns about breast health, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

African-American Woman and Breast Cancer Statistics

Breast cancer affects women of all races and ethnicities, and it is important to emphasize that no one is immune to this disease. However, research has shown that there are certain patterns in the incidence and outcomes of breast cancer among different racial and ethnic groups.

When it comes to African-American women, they have both higher breast cancer incidence rates and higher mortality rates compared to women of other racial and ethnic backgrounds. These disparities are influenced by a combination of factors, including socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, cultural beliefs, and genetic variations.

Here are some statistics specifically related to breast cancer in African-American women:

Incidence Rates: African-American women have a higher incidence rate of breast cancer compared to women of other racial and ethnic backgrounds. According to the American Cancer Society, the breast cancer incidence rate is about 128.1 cases per 100,000 African-American women.
Mortality Rates: Sadly, African-American women also have a higher mortality rate from breast cancer. The mortality rate is around 31.9 deaths per 100,000 African-American women, according to the American Cancer Society.
Younger Age: Breast cancer tends to occur at a younger age in African-American women compared to women of other races. Studies have shown that breast cancer in African-American women is more commonly diagnosed before the age of 50.
Aggressive Subtypes: It has been observed that African-American women are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive subtypes of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer. This subtype is often associated with a poorer prognosis.
Disparities in Survival: Despite advances in breast cancer treatment, African-American women have lower survival rates compared to women of other racial and ethnic backgrounds. These disparities highlight the importance of early detection, access to quality healthcare, and culturally tailored interventions.

It is essential to address these disparities through increased awareness, education, access to screening and treatment, and equal healthcare opportunities for all women. By promoting regular mammograms, early detection, and timely treatment, we can work towards reducing the impact of breast cancer in African-American communities. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support regarding breast health.

The Good News

A new American Cancer Society (ACS) report finds that the death rate for breast cancer in the United States among women dropped 43% between 1989 when it peaked and 2020. During the last decade, death rates declined similarly for women of all racial/ethnic groups across the US except for American Indians/Alaska Natives (AIANs), who had stable rates. However, Black women are still more likely to die from breast cancer than White women across the US, even though Black women have lower breast cancer incidence rates.

American Indians/Alaska Natives

AI/AN populations in the United States have unique cancer patterns due to their history and culture, where they live, how they get health care, and institutionalized racism. Many Native people live on reservation lands or in remote rural areas, where their primary health care is provided by a tribally operated health program or the Indian Health Service. Rural and urban Native people often experience more poverty, lower levels of education, and poorer housing conditions compared with the general US population. View the resources below to learn more about cancer in AI/AN communities.

Personal Commitment

My mom pictured on the right is a #breastcancersurvivor. I admire her strength and strong-willed ability to muster through unchartered territory. As some mother and daughter relationships we’ve had our share of rollercoaster rides – (1) thing for certain; (2) things for sure – she has been steadfast come hell or high water; if I had 1/3 of her strength the trajectory of my life would have more sunshiny days. I love you mom…