Despite significant strides in the fight against cancer in the United States, as evidenced by a 33% decline in overall mortality rates between 1991 and 2020, and a growing number of cancer survivors surpassing 18 million, the burden of cancer continues to disproportionately impact racial and ethnic minority communities.
This insight is underscored in the AACR Cancer Disparities Progress Report 2024, released by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), which highlights systemic factors such as historical racism, segregation, and a lack of diversity in cancer research and care delivery as contributors to ongoing health disparities.
The report emphasizes the urgent need for sustained research efforts and collaborative initiatives to ensure that advancements in cancer care benefit all individuals, irrespective of race, ethnicity, or socio-economic background.