Work

Addressing Cancer Health Disparities in the Pacific Peoples of Hawai‘i, Guam, and the US Associated Pacific Islands Through Pacific-Focused Research Capacity Building

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: Sociocultural, geographic, and biologic factors contribute to cancer health disparities (CHDs) in indigenous Pacific peoples (IPPs) in Guam, Hawai'i, and the US Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI). IPPs experience a greater burden of CHDs that are associated with late-stage diagnosis and poor survival outcomes compared with majority populations in the United States. A 16-year partnership between the University of Guam (UOG) and University of Hawai'i Cancer Center (UHCC) aims to advance health equity in Guam, Hawai'i, and the USAPI through cancer research, training, and outreach. Investigators at collaborating institutions study issues of regional and cultural relevance in IPPs, including breast, cervical, liver, and oral cancers and use of tobacco and betel nuts (Areca nuts). Junior faculty with IPP ancestry or those who are focused on CHDs in IPPs receive mentorship and career development opportunities, academic fellowships are provided for graduate students, and Pacific Island communities are engaged through a participatory development process. The partnership has generated more than 90 peer-reviewed publications, more than 100 abstracts, and 11 grant awards. Thirty graduate scholars from under-represented minorities have been trained, including two who are now UOG faculty and are conducting independent research, contributing to the partnership, and mentoring scientists of tomorrow. Participatory community engagement has contributed to the passage of significant cancer prevention and control legislation in Hawai'i, Guam, and Saipan. Research capacity at UOG has increased significantly, and research at UHCC has expanded to address issues unique to IPPs. Graduate students from under-represented minorities are pursuing careers in cancer research. A regional research infrastructure has been established to support team science, and research findings are informing public health policy and planning.

Source: JCO Global Oncology

DOI: 10.1200/go.19.00213

Authors: Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Neal A. Palafox, Margaret P. Hattori-Uchima, Hali R. Robinett, Carl-Wilhelm Vogel

Institutions: University of Guam, University of Hawaii Cancer Center

Language: English

Topic: Global Cancer Incidence and Screening

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Partnerships for the goals

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,472