Work

Racial and ethnic disparities in the cause of death for clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The trends and contributors of racial and ethnic disparities in causes of death among patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma remain unclear. We analyse SEER data (2000-2019) and find that Black patients have the highest 5-year cumulative incidence of death (22.4% vs. 21.7% in whites). Despite a decreasing trend in mortality, the disparities persist between Black and white people (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.09–1.22) and between AIAN and white people (1.25, 1.10-1.43). Disparities in death from cardiovascular disease between Black and white people increase over time. Stage at diagnosis, receipt of surgery, income, and geographic factors partially explain the observed disparities in mortality patterns. This study identifies specific, measurable contributors to mortality disparities, suggesting that interventions targeting earlier detection, equitable treatment, and socioeconomic barriers are needed. There is inadequate evidence on the trends and contributors of racial and ethnic disparities in causes of death among patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Here the authors report that despite a decreasing trend in mortality, the disparities persist between Black and white people and between Alaska Native and white people with stage, surgery, income, and geographic location identified as potential mediators of the disparities.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-70709-4