Did you know that your paycheck could reveal the type of cancer you’re most at risk for? Research has shown that the risk of developing certain types of cancer varies depending on an individual’s income level and neighborhood affluence. Both rich and poor people can develop cancer, but the kind of cancer that presents the highest risk depends on these factors.
The Link Between Cancer and Income Level
A study at the New York State Cancer Registry found that people living in areas with the highest poverty rates are more likely to develop cancers such as Kaposi sarcoma, larynx, cervix, and liver cancers. On the other hand, people in wealthier neighborhoods are more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma, thyroid, other non-epithelial skin, and testicular cancers.
Francis Boscoe, a researcher involved in the study, explains: “At first glance, the effects (of economic status) seem to cancel one another out. But the cancers more associated with poverty have lower incidence and higher mortality, and those associated with wealth have higher incidence and lower mortality.”
There are several reasons why income could impact cancer risk. For those with lower incomes, inadequate access to health care and resources can lead to poorer health outcomes. Additionally, people from low-income areas are more likely to be exposed to hazardous environments or engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, which increases their risk of developing certain cancers.
On the other hand, individuals from higher-income areas often have access to better health care, which can lead to earlier detection and treatment, reducing their mortality risk. Furthermore, these individuals may lead healthier lifestyles, decreasing their chances of developing cancers more associated with poverty.
Cancer Clusters: A Geographic Cancer Risk Factor
Another vital factor in determining cancer risk relates to the geographic area where you live. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some areas, called “cancer clusters,” have a higher than normal occurrence of cancer cases among a specific group of people within a defined geographic area over a fixed period.
Cancer clusters can occur for various reasons, such as natural and artificial environmental factors, shared genetic or lifestyle characteristics, or simply by chance. For example, cancer clusters have been observed around hazardous waste sites and industrial facilities, where environmental exposure to toxic substances can increase the risk of developing certain cancers.
If you think you live in an area where there seems to be a higher number of people with cancer or a specific type of cancer, it’s essential to report it and seek more information. You can visit the following websites for reporting and gaining further insights:
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): The ATSDR conducts public health assessments of potentially hazardous waste sites, performs health consultations on particular hazardous substances, designs and conducts health surveillance programs, and provides education and training about hazardous substances.
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National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH): The NCEH website offers general information about cancer clusters, links to resources, and answers to frequently asked questions.
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National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): The Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) Program of the CDC’s NIOSH looks into potentially hazardous working conditions, including suspected cancer clusters.
What You Can Do to Reduce Your Cancer Risk
Understanding the factors that influence your cancer risk is the first step, but you can also take action to reduce your risk. Some steps you can take include:
- Leading a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking.
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Monitor your environment: Be aware of potential hazards in your surroundings, and take steps to avoid exposure to harmful substances.
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Get screened regularly: Regular cancer screenings can detect abnormalities early, improving the chances of successful treatment and reducing mortality risk. Speak to your healthcare provider about recommended screening tests based on age, sex, and personal or family history.
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Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest cancer research and ask your healthcare provider about new developments in cancer prevention and treatment.
By understanding the risk factors associated with cancer and taking proactive steps to reduce your risk, you can improve not only your health but also your overall quality of life. Remember, prevention is the key to reducing your cancer risk, and it starts with you.
