Results of the study show patients of a higher socioeconomic status were more likely to develop breast cancer but were much less likely to die from the disease. On the other hand, patients of a low socioeconomic status had more than a 20-fold increased risk of dying from the disease.

Researchers say the patients in the study who were of a low socioeconomic status were more likely to be foreigners, were less likely to be frequently screened for cancer, and were less likely to receive treatment such as chemotherapy or surgery for their disease. However, even after researchers accounted for these factors, these patients still had an increased risk of dying from breast cancer.

Authors of the study conclude, “Socioeconomic status is an independent risk factor for breast cancer mortality. We must consider patients of low socioeconomic status at increased risk to die of the disease and provide them with intensified support and surveillance.”