Cancer research studies in Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders

Abstract

Purpose: To review and assess published findings from relevant cancer research studies in Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders and to develop strategies for designing and implementing successful cancer research studies in the future.

Methods: Data were collected primarily from MEDLINE and BIOSIS Preview searches of the English literature during a 30-year period for published reports of cancer surveillance studies and epidemiological and clinical cancer studies in the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations. The cancer burden was critically assessed in the retrieved citations for each of the indigenous groups from Hawai'i, American Samoa, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

Results: A review of the published literature revealed a lack of systematic data collection on cancer incidence and mortality in Pacific Islanders. Wide variations were found regarding the status of cancer research among ethnic groups. It is estimated that Native Hawaiians represent 0.1% of subjects accrued to cancer prevention trials, and that Pacific Islanders represent 0.5% of subjects in a large cancer screening trial.

Conclusion: The paucity of cancer data and clinical cancer research supports the need for increased attention to these indigenous populations to improve the quality of cancer care in Native Hawaiian and Pacific Island communities.