A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that Black women with obesity and high leptin levels face an increased risk of early-onset breast cancer, particularly luminal A and triple-negative subtypes, compared to White women. This research highlights the urgent need to address racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes.
The study, conducted at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, examined clinical records of 1,085 patients between 2017 and 2022. Results showed that Black women with obesity had a higher frequency of breast cancer diagnosis compared to White patients. Black women also experienced a higher incidence of early-onset disease, with the risk further increasing among those with obesity.
Researchers found that Black women, regardless of breast cancer diagnosis, had higher serum leptin levels compared to White women. These elevated leptin levels were associated with higher odds of luminal A disease and potentially linked to early-onset disease and triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis.
The study authors noted, “Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among US women. It also exhibits significant race-associated health disparities.”
The study’s limitations include its small, single-institution sample size and reliance on self-reported race. However, the findings highlight the complex interplay between obesity, leptin levels, and breast cancer risk in Black women. Future research should consider race-associated risk factors such as social exposures and economic stressors that may contribute to higher obesity rates in Black women and influence breast cancer disparities.
See “Black Women With Obesity, Elevated Leptin Levels at Higher Risk for Breast Cancer” (July 31, 2024)
