Cancer disparities between African-Americans and whites in Missouri.

Eliminating racial disparities in cancer is a key goal of national organizations and those in Missouri. The purpose of this study is to provide trends in cancer incidence (1996-2003) and mortality (1990-2005) over time with special emphasis on disparities between African-Americans and whites in Missouri. Overall changes in incidence rates suggest that by 2006 the racial disparity will be eliminated. However, African-Americans will continue to have higher mortality rates unless more aggressive interventions are implemented.