The association between ethnic background and prostate cancer

Abstract

Prostate cancer is a complex disease which is more prevalent among men of black and minority ethnic (BME) background than their Caucasian counterparts, with men of African-Caribbean background experiencing higher levels of incidence and mortality than any other ethnic group. The reasons behind this health inequality are poorly understood and likely to be multifactorial. Several theories have been posited, including genetic disposition, poorer access to health care, a lack of understanding of the risks posed by prostate cancer and an unwillingness to access mainstream health care. There is, however, a notable disparity between the amount of literature focusing on prostate cancer as it affects those with a BME background and on prostate cancer in general. This further compounds the difficulties encountered by BME men, who rely on health professionals being aware of the greater risk they face. More knowledge and understanding is required by both the general population and medical practitioners to address this health inequality.