The most often cited factors affecting cancer incidence and mortality among African Americans are poverty, tobacco use, and diet and nutrition. [9] Poverty is a significant factor associated with cancer. Cancer incidence and mortality increase as household income decreases.[10] Of the 39 million Americans who live below the federal poverty level, approximately 9.6 million are African Americans.[11] Because African Americans are disproportionately represented among the nation's poor, they are at an increased risk of cancer incidence and mortality.[12]

About 390,000 deaths occur yearly in the United States as a result of tobacco use. Almost 90% of these deaths are from lung cancer. Over the past 20 years, tobacco use has become increasingly prevalent in the African-American community.[13] As a result, African Americans are at particular risk of lung cancer incidence and mortality.[14]

Diet and nutrition also play an important role in preventing illnesses and in the number of premature cancer deaths. Studies suggest that dietary fat may influence the risk of some cancers--specifically breast, colon, and prostate cancers.[15] Many African Americans are particularly at risk of developing and dying from these cancers due to diets that include foods high in fat.[16]