According to a recent study, women who have few close friends or family members are more likely to die from breast cancer than those women who are more socially active. The study, led by Dr. Candyce H. Kroenke of the University of California, looked at data from about 3,000 women, 46 to 71 years old, in 1992, women that were diagnosed with breast cancer between 1992 and 2002. Women were asked to fill in periodic questionnaires regarding their social life, marital status, frequency of contact with relatives and close friends, their social-emotional support or having a confidant. 224 women died by 2004, among which 107 from breast cancer. Based on the analysis of the data, socially isolated women, like those with few family members or friends, were 66% more likely to die from all causes and twice as likely to die from breast cancer than those who were the most socially integrated. Participating in religious or community activities did not seem to have any effect on this risk, but the presence or absence of close relatives, friends and living children had a great impact on survival. Also, having a confidant or a spouse was similarly unrelated to their survival. Women with no close relative or friends had 3 to 4 times more chances of dying from breast cancer than those with 10 or more friends or close relatives.