Breast Cancer Patients with MDD: A Comparative Study of Racial Disparities

Purpose

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Black women. Its concurrence with major depressive disorder (MDD) presents complex challenges for patients and clinicians. Our study aims to compare the clinical and economic impact of these comorbid conditions between racial groups.

Methods

We reviewed HCUP NIS data from 2018 to 2020 for 14,105 discharge cases of breast cancer with concurrent MDD, identified using ICD-10-CM code C50.xx. SPSS and SAS facilitated the data analysis, considering cost, demographics, length of stay, expected primary payer, and urban-rural patient location between White and Black racial groups. T-tests and chi-square tests determined statistical significance at p<0.05.

Results

12,312 patients were racially identified as White, 1,793 were Black, and 1,777 were of other races. On average, Black patients presented at a younger median age and were less likely to have elective admissions compared to White patients. A significant racial difference was observed in hospital location based on the census division (p<.001). Black patients had shorter hospital length of stay (p<.001). Chi-square analysis highlighted differences in the expected primary payer (p<.001) and urban-rural patient location (p<.001), indicating disparities in healthcare access and socioeconomic status. No significant difference in in-hospital mortality between racial groups was observed (p=.228).

Conclusions

Breast cancer patients with concurrent MDD encounter notable clinical and economic difficulties. Black patients typically experience more disadvantages in terms of admission metrics, reflecting significant racial disparities. Community-based research initiatives are necessary to address the root causes of these disparities and inform effective interventions for Black populations.