Study Probes Cancer in Minorities

The American Cancer Society reported that African-Americans are more likely to develop cancer than all other racial and ethnic groups. According to a report from the National Research Council’s Institute of Medicine, “…It is critical that we learn why some ethnic minorities and the medically underserved are more prone to cancer and less likely to survive it.”

In response to the study, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and North General Hospital have teamed up to recruit volunteers for the New York Cancer Project, one of the largest medical studies ever conducted in the US.

Part of the study will follow 300,000 New Yorkers of African-American and Latino descent, aged 30 to 69 to examine the interplay of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors in the incidence of cancer. Since mortality rates for these groups from breast, colon, prostate, and lung cancer are much higher than in the general population, diverse ethnic representation in research is critical to helping scientists understand the causes of cancer and develop appropriate treatments.

Each volunteer will be interviewed privately about his or her personal health history, diet, physical activity, and family medical history, then give a blood sample and have their height, weight and blood pressure recorded. Every two years thereafter, volunteers will complete a questionnaire.

To participate in the Mount Sinai study, call 212-241-8902. To participate at North General, call 212-423-1441. For more information, call 877-NYCPROJ.

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