Among minorities and the medically underserved, the relationship between life style factors involving diet, nutrition, and fitness and the risks for cancer is complex, significant, and controversial. The issue must be viewed in the context of various influences, including socioeconomic disparities and cultural relevance, with consideration given to relevant factors, such as inherent difficulties of data collection and interpretation. The authors examined wide-ranging aspects of this issue, as presented by leading scientists and authorities at a symposium exploring the role of diet, nutrition, and fitness in cancer. Culture and socioeconomic status strongly influence both individual and societal attitudes and behaviors regarding food, fitness, and weight status. These factors are significant not only as they relate to cancer development but as considerations in developing programs to modify risk behaviors. There is a substantial need for more cancer research focusing on both the preventive and therapeutic impact of diet and fitness, with specific attention given to the role of these life style factors in cancer among culturally diverse groups. In addition, a population-based, culturally sensitive approach to behavior modification programs provides the only practical strategy for achieving risk reduction among minority groups. Cancer 1998;83:1775-83. (C) 1998 American Cancer Society.
