According to that report (and many others), the causes of such disparities are complex, including genetic differences, environmental and occupational hazards, stress and lifestyle. But even when diagnosed at equal rates, racial and ethnic communities and low income groups face difficulties in accessing health care services and education. Poverty, lack of health care coverage and under- insurance (more prevalent in many minority communities) also affect access to information, prevention education, screening, treatment, referral to specialists, continued treatment and even pain relief. .
