Prostate and Breast Cancer Risks Among Japanese and White Immigrants in Los Angeles
Author Information
Author(s): H. Shimizu, R.K. Ross, L. Bernstein, R. Yatani, B.E. Henderson, T.M. Mack
Primary Institution: University of Southern California School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Environmental factors in early life are important in the etiology of breast cancer, while later life events significantly impact prostate cancer risk.
Conclusion
The study found that prostate and breast cancer incidence rates are higher among Japanese and Spanish-surnamed whites in Los Angeles compared to their homeland populations, with immigration timing affecting breast cancer risk.
Supporting Evidence
- Prostate cancer rates in Los Angeles County were much higher than those in the homelands for each racial/ethnic group.
- Breast cancer risk was significantly influenced by the timing of immigration to the US.
- Early immigrants showed prostate cancer rates similar to US-born residents.
- Late immigrants had lower breast cancer rates compared to early immigrants.
Takeaway
This study shows that moving to the US can change cancer risks for people, especially for breast cancer, depending on when they moved.
Methodology
The study analyzed cancer incidence rates using data from the Los Angeles County Cancer Surveillance Program, comparing rates among different racial/ethnic groups and immigration statuses.
Potential Biases
There is a potential for detection bias in prostate cancer incidence due to differences in pathology review systems between Japan and the US.
Limitations
The study may have misclassified age at immigration due to reliance on social security numbers.
Participant Demographics
Participants included Japanese and Spanish-surnamed whites, both US natives and immigrants.
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