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Increased cancer risks in blacks: a look at the factors
Journal of the National Medical Association
|April 1, 1987
Summary
Cancer incidence and mortality are rising faster in Black populations compared to White populations. Lung cancer rates in Black men are increasing, while White men
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cancer incidence and mortality rates demonstrate significant racial disparities, with Black populations experiencing faster increases than White populations.
- Lung cancer incidence in Black men is rising, contrasting with a recent decrease in White men, potentially linked to smoking prevalence changes.
- Established cancer risk factors include smoking, diet, alcohol, and occupational exposures, but immunogenetic and unknown factors may also contribute to higher cancer incidence in Black individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing disparity in cancer incidence and mortality between Black and White populations.
- To examine the trends in lung cancer incidence, particularly in Black men, and explore potential contributing factors.
- To emphasize the need for further research into genetic and biomarker associations with cancer risk in diverse populations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cancer incidence and mortality rates stratified by race.
- Review of trends in lung cancer incidence, comparing Black and White men.
- Examination of known major risk factors for cancer and consideration of other potential contributing elements.
Main Results:
- Cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing at a faster pace in Black individuals compared to White individuals.
- Lung cancer incidence has notably increased in Black men, while it has begun to decrease in White men.
- Decreased smoking prevalence since 1965 may correlate with the observed leveling off of lung cancer incidence in White men.
Conclusions:
- Racial disparities in cancer are significant and widening, necessitating targeted public health interventions.
- Further analytic epidemiologic studies are crucial to understand the role of genetic factors and biomarkers in cancer risk among Black populations.
- Identifying and promoting key cancer mortality prevention strategies through primary and secondary prevention programs is essential.
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