After a mastectomy, American Indian and Alaskan native women are less likely than others to have cosmetic surgery Breast reconstruction may help improve women's body image after a mastectomy, researchers say They pointed to insurance, advanced cancer and cultural issues as barriers MONDAY, July 8, 2024 (HealthDay News) — After a mastectomy, some women are less likely than others to have surgery. Rates of the surgery are consistently lower among American Indian and Alaskan native women than among non-Hispanic white women, according to a new study that pointed to age, stage of cancer and insurance as contributors. "Despite an upward trend in reconstruction, [American Indian/Alaska Native] women continue to be less likely to undergo breast reconstruction," said study co-author , of the University of Minnesota.
"While our findings point to some possible approaches to reducing this disparity, it will be essential to also determine Native women's opinions related to breast reconstruction." For some women, breast reconstruction after mastectomy helps with body image and quality of life. The decision is a personal one, researchers said, adding "there is no optimal proportion of patients" who should choose reconstruction.
The findings -- published in the July issue of -- stem from a review of data from more than 416,000 women with breast cancer who had mastectomies between 2004 and 2017. Breast reconstruction rates and factors contributing to decisions about reconstruction surgery w.
