5 Common Types of Cancer in Underrepresented Communities and How to Spot Them

Written by: Chinonso Ahanonu
May 29, 2025

Cancer is a significant health concern globally, but its impact is not felt equally across all communities. Underrepresented groups, particularly racial and ethnic minorities, often face disparities in cancer rates, diagnosis, and outcomes. These disparities can stem from a complex combination of socioeconomic factors, healthcare access, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions. Understanding the common types of cancers prevalent in these communities and recognizing their early signs is crucial for promoting health equity and improving survival rates.

Here are 5 common types of cancers in underrepresented communities and how to spot them:

1. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. While CRC is common in all populations, certain underrepresented groups, especially African Americans, experience higher incidence and mortality rates, often at younger ages and with more advanced disease at diagnosis. Because of this, screening is recommended to begin at age 45 for average-risk individuals, and sometimes earlier for those with family history or additional risk factors. Genetic factors, diet, and disparities in screening access contribute to this imbalance.¹˒²

How to Spot It:

Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency that lasts for more than a few days.
Rectal bleeding or blood in stool: Bright red or very dark blood.
Persistent abdominal discomfort: Cramps, gas, or pain.
A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely.
Weakness or fatigue.
Unexplained weight loss.

Regular screening, such as colonoscopies, is vital for early detection and prevention, particularly for individuals in higher-risk groups, and is often recommended to begin earlier than the general population.³

2. Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, but it disproportionately affects African American men, who are more likely to develop aggressive forms of the disease and are twice as likely to die from it compared to white men.⁴ This disparity is influenced by a combination of genetic factors, environmental exposures, and healthcare access.

How to Spot It:

Difficulty urinating: Weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination, especially at night.
Pain or burning during urination.
Blood in semen or urine.
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis, or during ejaculation.

Early detection through regular screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams (DRE), is crucial, and discussions with healthcare providers about personalized screening schedules are recommended for high-risk individuals⁴.

3. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death among women globally. While incidence rates may be lower in some underrepresented groups, like Hispanic/Latina women, they often face later diagnoses and more aggressive tumor types, leading to poorer outcomes.⁵ African American women, in particular, have a higher mortality rate from breast cancer compared to white women, despite similar or slightly lower occurrence rates (number of times diagnosed with breast cancer).⁶ This disparity is often linked to factors like genetic predispositions, delayed diagnoses, and less access to timely, high-quality treatment.⁶

How to Spot It:

A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm.
Swelling of all or part of the breast.
Skin irritation or dimpling.
Nipple pain or nipple turning inward.
Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin.
Nipple discharge other than breast milk.

Regular self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential for early detection. It’s important for women from underrepresented communities to advocate for timely screening and follow-up care.

4. Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women, with significant disparities observed across different racial and ethnic groups. African Americans and Native Americans, for example, have historically faced higher lung cancer rates due to factors like higher rates of smoking in certain subgroups, occupational exposures, and limited access to cessation programs and early screening.⁷˒⁸

How to Spot It:

A new cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse.
Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum.
Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.
Weight loss and loss of appetite.
Shortness of breath.
Feeling tired or weak.
New onset of wheezing.
Recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

For individuals with a history of heavy smoking or other risk factors, low-dose CT scans are recommended for early detection. Culturally competent smoking cessation programs and improved access to healthcare are vital for addressing these disparities.

5. Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

Stomach cancer, while less common than the other cancers listed, shows higher incidence rates in certain underrepresented communities, particularly among Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Hispanic/Latino populations.⁹˒¹⁰ This can be attributed to factors such as higher prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection (a major risk factor for stomach cancer), dietary habits, and genetic predispositions.

How to Spot It:

Poor appetite.
Weight loss (without trying).
Abdominal pain or discomfort.
A feeling of fullness after eating a small meal.
Heartburn or indigestion.
Nausea.
Vomiting, with or without blood.
Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen.
Blood in the stool.

Early symptoms can be vague, making early diagnosis challenging. Awareness of these symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention, especially if there’s a family history or other risk factors, is crucial.

Empowerment Through Awareness

Addressing cancer disparities in underrepresented communities requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved access to healthcare, culturally sensitive education, and increased participation in clinical trials. By understanding these common cancers and their warning signs, individuals can be empowered to advocate for their health and seek timely medical care. Early detection saves lives.

Join the cancer support & awareness circle for dedicated resources, discussions, and a supportive community focused on navigating cancer journeys. Additionally, explore the health & wellness circle for valuable information on lifestyle changes, diet improvements, and overall well-being that can contribute to cancer prevention and a healthier life.