THE INCIDENCE of late-stage breast cancer is increasing in the USA, with women of all age groups and ethnic backgrounds experiencing significant rises, according to recent research. The study has highlighted widespread missed opportunities in early detection.
“We’re missing chances to diagnose the disease early,” the team commented. “Women, radiologists, and clinicians need to act on these troubling trends if we are to save lives.”
Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) programme, the study reviewed breast cancer diagnoses from 2004 to 2021, including the COVID-19 pandemic years. Findings highlighted a consistent annual percentage increase (APC) in late-stage diagnoses, particularly among younger women aged 20–39 years (APC 2.91%) and older women over 75 years (APC 1.44%).
Ethnic minority groups were disproportionately affected. Between 2004 and 2021, the incidence of distant-stage breast cancer rose most sharply among Native American women (APC 3.86%) and Asian women (APC 2.90%), with Black and Hispanic women also experiencing notable increases. Black women, in particular, face a 55% higher incidence rate of late-stage cancer than White women.
The researchers pointed to disruptions in screening during the pandemic as a key factor, particularly for older women and those from racial and ethnic minorities. They also criticised the USA reliance on opportunistic rather than population-wide screening programmes.
“Many women who missed mammograms in 2020 haven’t returned for regular screenings,” said the authors. They emphasised the need for proactive measures, including risk assessments for younger women and tailored screening strategies for higher-risk groups such as Black women.
An accompanying editorial called the findings a “worrisome trend” and urged healthcare providers to address gaps in education and intervention to ensure early detection.
The study’s authors plan further research into how these trends impact overall breast cancer mortality, aiming to drive systemic changes in screening and early diagnosis.
Reference
Hendrick RE, Monticciolo DL. Surveillance, epidemiology, and end results data show increasing rates of distant-stage breast cancer at presentation in U.S. women. Radiology. 2024;313(3):e241397.
