Prevalence and Risk Factors of Cancer among Pacific Islanders: A Systematic Review Study - Abstract
Background: Cancer is known as one of the leading causes of mortality in both developed and developing countries, however, the majority of it is preventable if healthy lifestyles are adopted. Cancer is increasing significantly in Pacific countries but its trend and risk factors are not studied well. This systematic review is aimed to understand the prevalence and determinants of cancer in Pacific countries.
Methods: This systematic review study was conducted based on Cochrane library guideline and using databases such as Medline, Cinahl, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Two coders reviewed articles which were located by using keywords such as cancer, Pacific, prevalence and risk factors. Articles included in the search were published between 1st January 2000 to 1st January 2017. Thirty-three studies were found and a data extraction sheet was made. A descriptive analysis was used to analyze the data and frequency of studies was reported using tables and figures.
Results: South Pacific countries had the highest number of published articles on cancer (42.2%). The results of the study showed the majority of studies were conducted among patients (66.7%), and most studies were community based studies (70%). Twelve studies (out of 33) focused on the prevalence of cancer, which ranges from 1.3% to 87%. Smoking was reported as the more frequent risk factor (12 studies, 52%) for cancer, followed by higher BMI (7 studies, 30.4%), and alcohol consumption (5 studies, 22%).
Conclusion: The results of this study showed cancer as one of the biggest health challenges for Pacific people and giving specific attention to its prevention is highly recommended. Developing different preventive strategies that focus on the factors highlighted in this study can help Pacific countries control this issue.