The 5-year relative survival rates of women diagnosed with breast cancer between 1992 and 1994 were compared among the 99 Health Authorities (1999 boundaries) of England. Substantial variation, with evidence of geographical clustering was observed. Part of this variation was explained by differences in deprivation between Health Authorities, in particular by the percentage of class IV and V households. British Journal of Cancer (2004) 90, 2153-2156. doi:10.1038/sj.bjc.6601812 www.bjcancer.com Published online 27 April 2004