Black women are 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women

(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - Black women are 40% more likely than white women to die of breast cancer.

A new study in the Journal of Cancer Causes and Control reports the disease is now the leading cause of cancer death among black women.

That means breast cancer has passed lung cancer deaths in African American women, who are less likely to get an early diagnosis.

Researchers say lack of insurance as well as socioeconomic and transportation issues contribute to black women having equal access to care.

The data highlights several cancer hotspots, mostly in southern poor counties, many along the Mississippi river.

The authors call it a "national emergency" arguing that black women having earlier access to screening and treatment could make a huge impact.