Bladder cancer in Native Americans and Alaskan Natives

OBJECTIVES The prevalence of bladder cancer among Native Arnericans/Alaskan Natives (NAs/ANs) is generally considered to be low. However, the relative morbidity and mortality seem high. We have undertaken this survey of the published data to explore and document this observation. METHODS An extensive survey of the published data was undertaken. The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results data in particular were assessed. RESULTS The incidence of bladder cancer among the NA/AN peoples is inexplicably low. This low incidence is more remarkable, given the widespread use of tobacco products and the disproportionately high incidence of kidney cancer in this same population. Despite this low incidence, NA/AN men and women seem to be at a relatively greater risk of dying of bladder cancer, once it has been diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS More and larger studies are needed to clarify and update the incidence, cell type, and clinical outcomes of bladder cancer among NA/AN men and women. Social, economic, and political barriers to treatment also need to be addressed. Effective steps need to be undertaken to ensure more timely diagnosis and treatment of this disease.