Disparities in Testicular Cancer: A Review of the Literature.

Simple Summary: In this study, we wanted to better understand the differences that exist between different groups of patients with testicular cancer, such as those from various racial/ethnic backgrounds, states and countries, ages, gender identities, insurance statuses, and financial statuses, amongst others. We were interested in looking at differences in these patients—including incidence, death rates, treatments and more. In our own clinical practice, we see how certain groups of patients present later, with worse disease, or die more often than others, and we feel it is critical to understand the research that exists in this space. We hope to raise awareness on the many disparities that exist and encourage further research and solutions. Background: Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed in adolescents and young adults, and evidence has emerged regarding disparities that affect different groups of patients. Methods: In this article, we conducted a thorough review of this area and summarized the existing literature. Results: Some of the pertinent findings from our review include poorer outcomes for various groups including the native Māori population of New Zealand, those who live in the United States–Mexico border region, those who live in Eastern Europe, those who are uninsured and those with poorer socioeconomic status, amongst others. In the United States specifically, there is significant evidence showing that racial/ethnic minorities, compared to white patients, tend to fare worse with later presentation at higher stages and worse survival rates. Hispanic patients in particular appear to have the potential for more aggressive tumor biology than other groups and are projected to have the highest incidence rates in the US by 2026. Conclusions: Overall, disparities exist in many aspects of testicular cancer and are striking in some instances, and further research is needed in this arena and in potential solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]