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Abstract
Review
Abstract
Objective
The
objective of this article is to broadly review the scientific
literature and summarize the most up-to-date findings on ovarian cancer
health disparities worldwide and in the United States (U.S.).
Methods
The
present literature on disparities in ovarian cancer was reviewed.
Original research and relevant review articles were included.
Results
Ovarian
cancer health disparities exist worldwide and in the U.S. Ovarian
cancer disproportionately affect African American women at all stages of
the disease, from presentation through treatment, and ultimately
increased mortality and decreased survival, compared to non-Hispanic
White women. Increased mortality is likely to be explained by unequal
access to care and non-standard treatment regimens frequently
administered to African American women, but may also be attributed to
genetic susceptibility, acquired co-morbid conditions and increased
frequency of modifiable risk factors, albeit to substantially lesser
extent. Unequal access to care is, in turn, largely a consequence of
lower socioeconomic status and lack of private health insurance coverage
among the African American population.
Conclusions
Our
findings suggest the need for policy changes aimed at facilitating
equal access to quality medical care. At the same time, further research
is necessary to fully resolve racial disparities in ovarian cancer.
Highlights
►
Ovarian cancer incidences are highest in Europe and North America, and
lowest in Africa and Asia.
► Mortality to incidence ratios are highest in Africa and in the U.S. women of African descent.
► Further research is necessary to fully elucidate and resolve racial disparities in ovarian cancer.
► Mortality to incidence ratios are highest in Africa and in the U.S. women of African descent.
► Further research is necessary to fully elucidate and resolve racial disparities in ovarian cancer.
Figures and tables from this article:
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