Peripheral Absolute Lymphocyte Count, Breast Cancer-Specific and Overall Mortality According to Race, Ethnicity, and Breast Cancer Subtypes.
November 2, 2026 · Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology
Key takeaway
A new study found that low levels of infection-fighting white blood cells after a breast cancer diagnosis are tied to lower survival rates, hitting Black women hardest. This matters because tracking these routine immune markers could help doctors better identify risk and personalize care for Black women navigating aggressive forms of breast cancer.
Why this matters for our communities
Research in cancer helps close long-standing gaps in how Black and African American families are studied, diagnosed, and cared for. Use findings like this one to start informed conversations with your care team — not as a substitute for personal medical advice.