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At cnn.com, genetics and race have been linked to cancer rates and to the outcomes of cancer treatments. But, what about access to health coverage, once the biggest indicator of the kind of medical treatment available to Americans today?

According to researchers at Windber Research Institute in Pennsylvania and Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, "minorities are much more likely to develop and die from cancer than the general U.S. population." In their study, breast cancer genes were compared between white and African American women in order to evaluate why it is that African American women are more likely to die from this disease.

Their preliminary research identified two genes found in normal breast tissue that may promote breast cell growth in African Americans.

And, these findings are independent of health coverage factors, meaning that on top of dealing with less access to health insurance, proper medical care, and modern cancer treatments, minorities and specifically minority women may be genetically disposed to more aggressive types of cancers.

Here is yet another reason why we need comprehensive health coverage in this country that is affordable and available to all. Those who need it most are the least likely to get the cancer treatment that could save their lives.

Not to mention the regular checkups that could educate potential cancer victims on how to prevent, or watch for, signs of the disease before it's too late.