The need to eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities is a national goal by the year 2010, and goes across a broad range of health professions and sciences. The source of disparities among people of color, people with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups in the USA is complex -- associated with health behavior, poverty, low education, comorbidity, and gaps in healthcare delivery. The non-white population experiences vast economic and educational disadvantages when compared with non-Hispanic Whites.

Investigators in the Reducing Cancer Disparities Program are examining behavioral factors in reducing risk factors, and increasing screening and medical care utilization among diverse, poor, vulnerable and underserved communities, especially those of the Southern California region.

Overall goals focus on improving the current knowledge base to promote reductions in disparities in cancer risk, incidence, and related health services.