American Cancer Society report describes unique cancer profile of Hispanic/Latino...(h among men are lung and colorectal canc...),Health

The report also finds that compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanic/Latino Americans:

• have lower incidence and death rates for all cancers combined and for the most common cancer sites (prostate, breast, lung, and colorectum);

• have higher rates of cancers of the stomach, cervix, liver, and gallbladder, and of acute lymphocytic leukemia;

• have a later stage of diagnosis for many cancers, including breast and melanoma;

• have generally similar 5-year survival, except for melanoma, for which survival rates are lower in Hispanic compared to non-Hispanic white men (79% versus 87%) and women (88% versus 92%);

• are less likely to smoke and drink alcohol;

• and are more likely to be poor, have fewer years of education, and lack health insurance.

"The Hispanic/Latino population will benefit from the same approaches that are most important in reducing cancer risk in the general population preventing and treating tobacco dependence, increasing access to immunization programs, high quality cancer screening and appropriate follow-up care, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight," said Vilma Cokkinides, Ph.D., American Cancer Society director for risk factor surveillance. "In addition, many Hispanics face barriers to receiving adequate, affordable health care that lik
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