Investigating how systemic racism affects breast cancer mortality in Black women

Systemic Racism and Biological Embodiment of Risk in Breast Cancer Mortality

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10911173

This study is looking at how the effects of systemic racism might contribute to higher breast cancer death rates among Black women in the U.S., and it will involve nearly 5,200 women with breast cancer to better understand this important issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911173 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the higher rates of breast cancer mortality among Black women in the U.S. by examining the impact of systemic racism. It aims to explore how chronic exposure to systemic racism may lead to biological changes that increase health risks. The study will create a new cohort of nearly 5,200 participants, including women diagnosed with breast cancer, to analyze the relationship between systemic racism and breast cancer outcomes. By integrating data from existing cohorts, the research will provide a comprehensive view of how social factors influence health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or are at risk of developing it.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black or do not have a diagnosis of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions that reduce breast cancer mortality in Black women.

How similar studies have performed: While the examination of systemic racism's impact on health is gaining attention, this specific approach has not been empirically tested in a single cohort before, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.