Behavioral and psychosocial cancer research in the underserved. An agenda for the future.
BACKGROUND
This research was undertaken to review the status of behavioral and psychosocial cancer research in the underserved.


METHODS
The author extensively reviewed the literature related to behavioral and psychosocial cancer research in the underserved for this article. The author's experience as the Principal Investigator for the only National Institutes of Health smoking cessation study targeting Asian-Americans also was used in analyzing the literature and developing an agenda for the future.


RESULTS
Two questions and accompanying agenda items were addressed. The underserved were defined, and the effect of being underserved was illustrated through their disproportionate and earlier (younger) presence in morbidity and mortality statistics. Initiating behavioral and psychosocial cancer research in the underserved begins with a proper attitude and making accommodations to culture. The agenda for research should be practical and assessed on the basis of prevalence and preventability of cancer related behaviors. Examples from underserved Asian-American populations were cited.


CONCLUSIONS
Behavioral and psychosocial cancer research needs to be done.
Chen
M S
MS
Department of Preventive Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
D005544:Forecasting; D015438:Health Behavior; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008507:Medically Underserved Area; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D012106:Research