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Structural Racism and Obesity-Related Cancer Inequities in the United States: Challenges and Research Priorities

Author

Listed:
  • Catherine M. Pichardo

    (Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

  • Adaora Ezeani

    (Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

  • Laura A. Dwyer

    (Cape Fox Facilities Services, Manassas, VA 20109, USA)

  • Anil Wali

    (Community Outreach, Research, and Engagement Branch, Center for Cancer Health Equity, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

  • Susan Czajkowski

    (Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

  • Linda Nebeling

    (Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

  • Tanya Agurs-Collins

    (Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA)

Abstract

Structural racism has been identified as a fundamental cause of health disparities. For example, racial, ethnic, and economic neighborhood segregation; concentrated poverty; community disinvestment; and sociocultural context influence obesity and cancer disparities. Effects of structural racism are also evident through neighborhood obesogenic conditions such as limited access to affordable and healthy foods and physical activity opportunities within segregated communities that contribute to obesity and obesity-related cancer disparities. This article describes and expands on cross-cutting themes raised during a webinar held by the National Cancer Institute (NCI): (1) how structural factors, including neighborhood segregation and obesogenic conditions within racial and ethnic disadvantaged communities, influence disparities in the United States; (2) current research challenges and best ways to address them; and (3) selected priorities of the NCI aimed at addressing multilevel and intersecting factors that influence obesity-related cancer disparities. Further research is needed to understand how residential segregation and neighborhood obesogenic conditions influence cancer prevention and control across the continuum. Identifying the best approaches to address obesity and cancer disparities using social determinants of health framework and community-engaged approaches guided by a structural racism lens will allow researchers to move beyond individual-level approaches.

Suggested Citation

  • Catherine M. Pichardo & Adaora Ezeani & Laura A. Dwyer & Anil Wali & Susan Czajkowski & Linda Nebeling & Tanya Agurs-Collins, 2024. "Structural Racism and Obesity-Related Cancer Inequities in the United States: Challenges and Research Priorities," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(8), pages 1-7, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:8:p:1085-:d:1458143
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Krieger, N., 2012. "Methods for the scientific study of discrimination and health: An ecosocial approach," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 102(5), pages 936-945.
    2. Elvin K Wyly & Daniel J Hammel, 2004. "Gentrification, Segregation, and Discrimination in the American Urban System," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 36(7), pages 1215-1241, July.
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