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. 2012 Jul;21(3):417-37, viii.
doi: 10.1016/j.soc.2012.03.012.

Racial differences and disparities in cancer care and outcomes: where's the rub?

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Racial differences and disparities in cancer care and outcomes: where's the rub?

Nestor F Esnaola et al. Surg Oncol Clin N Am. 2012 Jul.

Abstract

Despite a profusion of studies over the past several years documenting racial differences in cancer outcomes, there is a paucity of data as to the root causes underlying these observations. This article reviews work to date focusing on black-white differences in cancer outcomes, explores potential mechanisms underlying these differences, and identifies patient, physician, and health care system factors that may account for persistent racial disparities in cancer care. Research strategies to elucidate the relative influence of these various factors and policy recommendations to reduce persistent disparities are also discussed.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Stage of diagnosis by cancer type and race, United States, 1999 to 2006. Data from Siegel R, Ward E, Brawley O, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2011: the impact of eliminating socioeconomic and racial disparities on premature cancer deaths. CA Cancer J Clin. Jul-Aug 2011;61(4):212–236.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Five-year relative survival rates by cancer type, stage, and race; United States, 1999 to 2006. Data from Siegel R, Ward E, Brawley O, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2011: the impact of eliminating socioeconomic and racial disparities on premature cancer deaths. CA Cancer J Clin. Jul-Aug 2011;61(4):212–236.

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