The CORE Center's efforts are focusing on African American, Chinese, Haitian, Latino, and South Asian immigrants in New York City. These communities are represented in large numbers and/or are growing rapidly; are underserved and marginalized from the healthcare system; and experience significant cancer disparities.
Cancer disparities have been identified in partnership with the community through epidemiology presentations and discussions, a review of the literature, and ongoing dialogue. The disparities selected represent cancers with tremendous potential for prevention and early detection and, thus, opportunities to reduce or eliminate the disparities. Examples include:
- Prevention and early detection of gastric and colorectal cancers among Chinese immigrants
- The study of disparities in colorectal, breast, cervical, and prostate cancers among Haitian immigrants
- Survey of cancer treatment beliefs among Latinos and emphasis on screening for breast and cervical cancers among Latinas
- Reduction in smokeless tobacco use and education about oral cancer prevention and early detection among South Asian immigrants, along with education about screening for cervical cancer
- The utilization of technology to overcome language and literacy barriers in cancer care and research
- The identification, implementation, and evaluation of creative strategies to enhance cancer care access