Cancer among special populations: women, ethnic minorities, and the poor.

The study of cancer among women, ethnic minorities, and the poor can yield useful information about etiology and lead to effective recommendations for prevention. Opportunities exist for affecting cancer rates among women by studying and altering hormonal exposures and, possibly, alcohol consumption. The study of diet among ethnic groups may be more informative than among populations with homogeneous diets. The gender and racial differences among lung cancer patients related to tobacco need further research. Innovative multidisciplinary research is needed to reduce the ethnic, gender, and institutional barriers to ensure success in the fight against cancer.