Migration patterns and breast carcinoma.

BACKGROUND

Many American Indian and Alaska Native women have lower incidence rates of breast carcinoma than other racial/ethnic groups in the United States. The rates in most areas, however, have increased in recent years. The author reviews the migration patterns and effects that might contribute to this change.

METHODS

A review of the literature on migration and breast carcinoma incidence was conducted.

RESULTS

Migration significantly impacts on breast carcinoma incidence in all groups of women studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Research must be designed that will explore the components of host, life-styles, and environment on breast carcinoma rates in American Indian and Alaska Native women to elucidate mechanisms of breast carcinoma etiology.