Research Links Historical Redlining to Increased Breast Cancer Risks

Recent research from the University at Buffalo highlights the lasting impact of historical redlining on women's health, specifically regarding breast cancer risks and survival rates. Although this discriminatory practice was outlawed in the late 1960s, its consequences are still felt today, particularly in neighborhoods that were historically marginalized.

Redlining was a federal policy initiated in the 1930s that assessed neighborhoods for mortgage security based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Areas deemed hazardous were marked in red and largely included urban locales with significant Black populations, effectively denying them access to home loans and other financial resources. This practice has been identified as a significant factor influencing breast cancer outcomes, according to studies conducted by researchers at the University at Buffalo.

Sarah M. Lima, the lead researcher, emphasizes that redlining continues to shape neighborhood environments and socioeconomic resources, creating conditions that contribute to higher breast cancer rates and poorer survival outcomes. Lima's investigations reveal that women living in historically redlined neighborhoods face a greater likelihood of dying from breast cancer, independent of their health insurance status or socioeconomic background.

In a study examining nearly 61,000 breast cancer cases in New York State between 2008 and 2018, findings indicated that survival rates decreased progressively with the level of redlining. The results showed that cases in neighborhoods rated as 'D' had a significantly higher risk of mortality compared to those in 'A' neighborhoods. This highlights that the disparities in survival are not solely attributed to the demographics of the residents but also to the inherent risks associated with the neighborhoods themselves.

The analysis also revealed that redlined areas exhibited a higher prevalence of aggressive breast cancer types, such as hormone receptor-negative and triple-negative tumors. Lima urges women from these historically impacted areas to prioritize regular breast cancer screenings as part of proactive health measures.

Another study conducted as part of this research analyzed 12,894 neighborhoods across the United States, discovering that redlined areas commonly exhibited a higher concentration of breast cancer risk factors. The research identified correlations between these risk factors--such as low education levels, lack of health insurance, and physical inactivity--and the historical redlining status of neighborhoods.

The study's findings also show regional variations, suggesting that tailored interventions could be more effective in addressing breast cancer disparities. For instance, areas in the South may benefit from initiatives aimed at reducing obesity and increasing physical activity, while the Western regions might focus on improving access to mammography and routine healthcare.

Overall, the insights from this research underscore the importance of addressing the long-term health consequences of redlining. As the legacy of this practice continues to affect neighborhood dynamics and health outcomes, targeted public health strategies could play a crucial role in improving breast cancer survival rates among women in historically disadvantaged communities.