Socioeconomic status and breast cancer mortality, 1989 through 1993: An analysis of education data from death certificates

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined whether more highly educated women were at greater risk of dying of breast cancer during 1989 through 1993. Methods: Breast cancer mortality rates were calculated through death certificates and Current Population Survey data. Results: Breast cancer mortality rates were highest among women with 12 and with 16 or more years of education. Non- Hispanic Black women had the highest mortality rates and Asian women the lowest. Positive relationships between mortality and education were found for Hispanic women as well as non-Hispanic Black and Asian women. Conclusions: The previously seen positive relationship between breast cancer mortality and education was found among US women of color but not non-Hispanic White women.