Breast Cancer & the Triple Negative Factor

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death for all women. But breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for African-American women. Black women develop the disease at a younger age than White women and it is more agressive. And, though White women are more likely than Black women to get breast cancer, Black women are more likely to die from it and the gap between death rates is increasing. This alarming fact doesn't change even when access to care, education and insurance are equal. What is the link between breast cancer and race?

Medical Oncologist Dr. Edith Mitchell is Associate Director of Diversity for the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson in Philadelphia, PA.

In a study of 22-hundred black and white women women, Dr. Mitchell, the lead researcher, tells 9 News Now the Triple Negative factor explains that link.

Joining Dr. Mitchell in this important discussion is her patient, Fran Robinson. In September 2005, Fran noticed a lump. In August 2006, she underwent a double mastectomy. She has participated in a clinical trial for Triple Negative breast cancer survivors.

To see my entire interview with Dr. Mitchell and Mrs. Robinson Click Here.



To read more about Dr. Mitchell's research Click Here