Neighbourhood disadvantage, racism and breast cancer survival

Implications for Clinical Practice

A recent cohort study published in JAMA Network Open examines the impact of neighbourhood disadvantage and individual experiences of racism on mortality among Black women with breast cancer.

The study highlights the critical role that social determinants of health play in patient outcomes and underscores the need for healthcare professionals to address these factors in clinical practice.

The research focused on evaluating whether neighbourhood disadvantage and personal experiences of racism are associated with mortality rates among Black women diagnosed with breast cancer. The study’s findings suggest that both neighbourhood disadvantage and individual experiences of racism contribute to higher mortality rates in this population.

These findings have several important implications for healthcare providers: 

1. Holistic Patient Assessment: Clinicians should incorporate evaluations of social determinants of health, including neighbourhood conditions and experiences of racism, into patient assessments. Understanding these factors can aid in developing a more effective, personalised treatment plan.

2. Community Engagement: Healthcare institutions can collaborate with community organisations to address systemic issues contributing to health disparities. Initiatives aimed at improving neighbourhood conditions and combating racism can positively impact patient outcomes.

3. Policy Advocacy: Medical professionals have a role in advocating for policies that aim to reduce health disparities by addressing social determinants of health. This includes supporting legislation focused on improving housing, education, and economic opportunities in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.​

The study published in JAMA Network Open emphasises the significant influence of neighbourhood disadvantage and racism on breast cancer survival among Black women.

It calls for a comprehensive approach in clinical practice that goes beyond medical treatment to include addressing social and environmental factors affecting patient health.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to integrate this understanding into their practice to enhance health equity and improve patient outcomes.

Paper: Holder EX, Barnard ME, Xu NN, Barber LE, Palmer JR. Neighborhood Disadvantage, Individual Experiences of Racism, and Breast Cancer Survival. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(4):e253807. Available online here.