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Differences in Cancer Incidence and Mortality Among Socio-Economic Groups

A. Jeanne M. van Loon, University of Limburg, Department of Epidemiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands, Address correspondence to: A. J. M. van Loon University of Limburg Department of Epidemiology, P.O.B. 616 6200 MD Maastricht The Netherlands

Johannes Burg

Johannes Burg, University of Limburg, Department of Health Education, Maastricht, the Netherlands

R. Alexandra Goldbohm

R. Alexandra Goldbohm, University of Limburg, Department of Epidemiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands, TNO-Toxicology and Nutrition Institute, Department of Nutrition, Zeist, the Netherlands

Piet A. van den Brandt

Piet A. van den Brandt, University of Limburg, Department of Epidemiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands

Objectives: In this article studies on the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and risk for cancer at different sites are reviewed. Methods: The review is restricted to studies conducted in affluent societies, after 1970. Only studies using income, education and/or occupation as SES indicators are included. Results: A more or less consistent positive association between SES and cancer risk was found for colon and breast cancer. More or less consistent inverse associations were found for lung, stomach, oropharyngeal and esophageal cancer. Inconsistent associations were reported for cancer of the rectum and pancreas. Possible explanations for SES differences in cancer risk are discussed with special emphasis on lifestyle variables related to cancer risk. Conclusions: It is concluded that it is still unclear whether the reported associations can be (partially) attributed to lifestyle related risk factors for cancer such as smoking, nutritional habits, drinking habits and reproductive factors.

Key Words: socio-economic status • education • occupation • income • cancer incidence • cancer mortality • review

Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, Vol. 23, No. 2, 110-120 (1995)
DOI: 10.1177/140349489502300206


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