A new study of women in 41 countries finds an increase in breast cancer rates according to the American Association for Critical Illness insurance.  The study shares data for women before and after age 50.

"Rates of breast cancer in premenopausal women are increasing in higher income nations," shares Jesse Slome, director of the Association. "For postmenopausal women, breast cancer is increasing more rapidly in lower income countries."

The study shared by Slome shows the inequities in cancer mortality worldwide. According to the international analysis reported in The Lancet about 47 per cent of women diagnosed with premenopausal breast cancer in less developed countries will die.  "That compares to only 11 per cent per cent in the most developed countries," Slome notes. Postmenopausal breast cancer saw a fatality rate of 56 per cent in less developed nations compared to 21 per cent in their more developed counterparts.

For the comprehensive study, researchers examined breast cancer incidence and mortality trends over a 15-year period. The study population comprised women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. It classified premeno­pausal cases and deaths as those arising in women younger than 50 years. For the study postmenopausal cases and deaths were classified as those that occurred from age 50 years onward. The scientists noted that inter­nationally the average age of natural menopause is 45–55 years of age.

The publication notes a unique finding of the study. The scientists noted slower but significant increases in breast cancer incidence confined to premenopausal women in some high­ income industrialized countries.  

"They conclude the report with the following recommendation for women," Slome adds. "Although early diagnosis and access to treatment remain crucial, primary prevention efforts seeking to decrease excess body weight and alcohol consumption and increase physical activity and breastfeeding are warranted in all world regions to curb the future breast cancer burden."

Around 270,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year, according to the American Association for Critical Illness Insurance annual reporting of data.

"There is a real need for women to take steps to financially plan for this very real risk," Slome notes. "New treatments for those diagnosed offer great benefit. But many women are simply unprepared for costs of medical care that is not covered by their health insurance. Plus, many will need to take time off from work. A modest cancer insurance policy purchased in your 40s can cover those uncovered costs and replace lost income while one undergoes treatment and recovery time."

Access to the full study can be gained through the Association's Healthy Habits News posts.  AACII advocates for the importance of planning for the financial risks associated with main critical illnesses including cancer, heart attack and stroke.  For more information, visit their website at www.criticalillnessinsuranceinfo.org.