A Grim Reality: Only 1 in 3 Women Survive Breast Cancer for 7 Years

New findings from a groundbreaking 7-year study highlight a pressing health crisis in sub-Saharan Africa, where a mere one-third of women diagnosed with breast cancer manage to survive seven years post-diagnosis. Conducted by researchers from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in collaboration with partner institutions across the continent, the results underscore the urgent need for improved cancer care.

The Heartbreaking Statistics

This extensive follow-up, part of the African Breast Cancer-Disparities in Outcomes (ABC-DO) study, analyzed data from 2,153 women diagnosed with breast cancer between September 2014 and December 2017. The results are alarming: 1,323 women (61%) died, while only 672 (31%) remained alive, with 158 (7%) lost to follow-up. Survival rates showed a steep decline: just 51% survived for 3 years, 40% for 5 years, and a shocking 33% for 7 years.

Disparities Across the Region

The study also uncovered significant disparities in survival rates across different countries. Women in Zambia and Nigeria faced a 5-year age-standardized net survival rate between 35-42%, while Black women in Uganda, South Africa, and Namibia fared better at 52-58%. Non-Black women in Namibia appeared to have the best outcomes, with survival rates soaring over 83%.

The Call to Action: Reducing Breast Cancer Deaths

In light of these troubling findings, the World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated its Global Breast Cancer Initiative, aiming to slash breast cancer mortality rates by promoting earlier diagnoses and ensuring treatment completion. The research indicates that if these goals are met, as many as one-third of breast cancer deaths among Black women in the region could be prevented.

A Path Forward

To combat this health crisis, raising awareness of breast cancer among women and healthcare providers is crucial. Establishing reliable referral pathways for diagnosis and guaranteeing access to comprehensive treatment will be vital steps toward improving breast cancer outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. It's time to strengthen the fight against breast cancer and give women the lifeline they deserve.