Behavioral science and the task of resolving health disparities in cancer.

BACKGROUND: Behavioral scientists use health behavior theories to assess beliefs, feelings, and coping styles that predict cancer screening, choice of cancer treatments, or postcancer quality of life. METHODS: However, research testing these theories is typically based on middle-class, White populations. RESULTS: Research needs to be culturally appropriate and relevant for minority and underserved populations. CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge gained from such studies will help in designing and evaluating culturally sensitive interventions to reduce health disparities by modifying unhealthy behaviors such as poor diet, smoking, lack of regular physical activity, or failure to get timely cancer screening.