A new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas sheds light on the often-overlooked health disparities in gastrointestinal (GI) cancer among Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) in the United States. The research reveals that cancer remains the leading cause of death for Asian Americans, with several GI cancers ranking among the top five most common and deadly cancers in this diverse population.
The study emphasizes the critical need for disaggregated data within AANHPI communities. By examining cancer rates among specific ethnic subgroups, researchers uncovered significant variations in cancer risk and outcomes. For instance, Korean Americans face a staggering 10-fold higher risk of gastric cancer compared to non-Hispanic White Americans, while other Asian American groups experience a 4-6 fold greater risk.
These disparities extend beyond incidence rates. The research highlights that AANHPI groups often present with more advanced stages of colorectal cancer at diagnosis, with Korean and Southeast Asian Americans having nearly 65% of cases diagnosed at late stages. This trend contributes to poorer outcomes and higher mortality rates in certain subgroups.
The study also points out the impact of immigration and acculturation on cancer risk. Factors such as infectious agents, dietary changes, and adoption of new lifestyle habits play crucial roles in shaping cancer patterns among immigrant populations.
The authors call for urgent action to address these disparities, including improved data collection, culturally tailored prevention programs, and increased funding for research on cancers disproportionately affecting AANHPI communities. They stress that moving beyond broad racial categories in cancer research is essential for developing effective, targeted strategies to reduce the burden of GI cancers in these diverse populations.
See “Shattering the monolith: burden of gastrointestinal cancer in Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States” (January 1, 2025)
