Cancer Health Disparities

Documenting cancer health disparities and identifying their underlying drivers is a central focus for the DreamLab. We use population-based and other large and representative data sources to quantify the extent of disparities across the cancer continuum, from risk factors to genetic susceptibility, to risk and incidence, and treatment and outcomes.

Major sources of data include cancer registry data, often enhanced with additional information such as neighborhood, claims, and electronic health records data; large cohorts (e.g., Multiethnic Cohort, Pathways breast cancer survivor cohort); and electronic health records. We also conduct studies involving denovo data collection from patients and healthy populations.

We focus on population groups defined by detailed race/ethnicity (e.g., Asian ethnic groups), sex and gender, age, socioeconomic status, immigration status, etc., often focusing on the intersectional effects of these social determinants.

We have conducted methodologic research to improve data availability, and the measurement of and research on social determinants of health. Our group has contributed to national discussions and recommendations for cancer health disparities research.

Sample Publications