A worrying report released by the American Cancer Society found that in 2012 black women were 42 percent more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Researchers are trying to figure out exactly why this is the case. Unfortunately, poorer access to good medical care is one critical factor. A 2014 analysis of morbidity figures in the nation's 50 largest cities showed that black women in Los Angeles were 70% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women. In New York, this figure was 19%. This led researchers to believe New York's superior hospital and transportation system could be a factor, as well as lower poverty rates. Other factors that raise the risk of breast cancer are obesity, which is rising in black women. Also black women are having fewer children than they once did, and having them at a later age; both of which increase breast cancer risk. We also shouldn't forget that vitamin D deficiency is a much bigger problem for individuals with darker skin. Being low in vitamin D raises the risk of nearly every type of cancer, particularly breast cancer. It is important for all women to be aware of the risk factors for this disease, so they can do as much as possible to protect themselves, their daughters and mothers. For more information on what you can do to reduce the risk of breast cancer or its recurrence, see our book The Breast Cancer Prevention Guide. Reference