National Cancer Institute   U.S. National Institutes of Heath www.cancer.gov
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The Challenge

The unequal burden of cancer in our society is more than a scientific and medical challenge. It is a moral and ethical dilemma for our Nation. Certain populations experience significant disparities in cancer incidence, the care they receive, and the outcomes of their disease. These differences have been recognized, or at least suspected for some time. Now, they are being documented with increasing frequency and clarity. http://plan.cancer.gov

Our challenge today is to:

  • Fully understand the fundamental causes of cancer health disparities, including the influence of social position, economic status, cultural beliefs and practices, environmental exposures, genetics, and individual behavior.
  • Develop effective interventions to address these disparities.
  • Actively facilitate their implementation