Abstract IA-22: A multilevel framework for reducing cancer risk in diverse Asian American populations

Abstract

Abstract Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States (US). The Asian American population is also diverse and heterogeneous with respect to language, culture, country of origin, preventive-health orientation, and other characteristics. The practice of presenting aggregated data on cancer incidence and mortality in Asian Americans obscures important health differences as some Asian American subgroups experience higher rates of cancer – such as liver, uterine cervix, and stomach cancers – than other racial/ethnic groups. Despite this elevated risk, many Asian American subgroups have lower cancer screening rates compared with other populations. Low screening rates have been attributed to a number of factors including psychosocial beliefs and barriers to healthcare access; and despite considerable effort over the past decades, screening rates remain well below national goals. In this presentation, we will illustrate the application of a multilevel framework to address individual-, interpersonal-, and community-level factors contributing to uptake of cancer screening and prevention behaviors in several US Asian subgroups. Examples from recent research will be presented to highlight how community-academic partnerships have successfully enhanced cancer screening and prevention behaviors. We will also review ongoing challenges and discuss new opportunities for promoting a greater focus across and within diverse Asian American populations. Engaging multiple stakeholders in the planning process can lead to effective and sustainable programs that result in increased participation among underserved and underrepresented individuals. Together, these strategies may help reduce inequities and improve outcomes across our diverse communities. Citation Format: Carolyn Y. Fang. A multilevel framework for reducing cancer risk in diverse Asian American populations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr IA-22.