Breast Reconstruction Disparities in the United States and Internationally

AbstractPurpose of ReviewWomen electing to undergo breast reconstruction following mastectomy have increased in frequency. Classically studied healthcare disparities have an influence on whether women undergo reconstruction. This review evaluates these domains, globally, while exploring why they exist.Recent FindingsIn the USA, women who are young, white, with higher income and education level, private insurance, and those treated at private or academic hospitals are most likely to undergo reconstruction. Women of a minority race or ethnicity, lower socioeconomic group, early education status, and with public or no insurance remain less likely to undergo reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is not commonly available to women in low- and middle-income countries.SummaryDisparities in breast reconstruction persist though significant strides have been made in many high-income nations. Internationally, concerted efforts are needed that focus on health literacy education, access to surgical consultations, and an inclusion of breast reconstruction in the breast cancer treatment process.
Source: Current Breast Cancer Reports - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research