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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Health Promotion/Disease Prevention

Cancer Prevention

American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people have much higher rates of getting several types of cancer.

While some cancers may have contributing factors such as genetics or age that make an individual more at risk for developing a certain type of cancer, there are often preventive measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk.

older native man having a checkup

What You can do to Reduce Your Risk

  • Do not use commercial tobacco
  • Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke
  • Limit alcohol use
  • Eat a healthy diet that includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fiber
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Engage in daily physical activity
  • Get early preventive cancer screenings
  • Use sunscreen to protect skin
  • Get a vaccine to help lower certain cancer risks

What Are We Doing?

Rates of New Cancers by Type among the American Indian and Alaska Native Population

Cancers among AI/AN Males
Type Rate
Prostate 80.4
Lung and Bronchus 51.5
Colon and Rectum 47.8
Kidney and Renal Pelvis 35.5
Oral Cavity and Pharynx 18.3
Liver and Intrahepatic Bile Duct 18
Urinary Bladder 17.9

Note: Rates per 100,000 men

Source: United States Cancer Statistics (USCS), 2021 Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 

Cancers among AI/AN Females

Type Rate
Female Breast 117.2
Lung and Bronchus 52.4
Colon and Rectum 39.1
Corpus and Uterus, NOS 26.6
Thyroid 19.5
Kidney and Renal Pelvis 18.6
Pancreas 11.2

Note: Rates per 100,000 women

Source: United States Cancer Statistics (USCS), 2021 Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 

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