Gastric Cancer in Korean Americans: Risks and Reductions.

Gastric cancer is one of the leadings cause of cancer worldwide. However, Koreans have the highest reported incidence of this deadly disease. Risk factors predisposing to the formation of gastric cancer include a combination of environmental risks, such as diet and infection (Helicobacter pylori), and, in some cases, genetic predisposition. Early screening and detection is essential to reduce gastric cancer mortality. The low prevalence and late onset of gastric cancer in Americans, compared to Korean Americans, however, has hindered our ability to risk stratify, screen, and improve early detection in Korean Americans, thereby contributing to the increasing mortality in this group. Gastric cancer control must focus on improved medical technology, in combination with community outreach, education, and awareness. Korean community services, church-based groups, media campaigns, medical communities, both academic and community based, and industry collaborations are essential to heighten awareness about gastric cancer in Korean Americans. Efforts to reduce the burden of gastric cancer in Korean Americans must focus on the dissemination of information to those most affected by the disease and those serving this community.