Prospects for eliminating racial differences in breast cancer survival rates

Results from the randomized trial underway in the Health Insurance Plan of Greater New York to determine the efficacy of periodic screening with mammography and palpation of the breast have been examined to determine the effect of screening on racial differences in breast cancer survival rates. Consistent with experience in general populations, the control group showed a lower five-year survival rate among non-White women with breast cancer than among White women. In the study group, 65 per cent of whom participated in the screening program, there was no differential in the survival rates of the two racial groups. The elimination of the unfavorable status among non-Whites through screening does not appear to be explained by various artifacts explored. Secondary prevention measures may offer the possibility of reducing or closing the gap in breast cancer survival rates between White and non-White women.