Resumen
In the United States, it is estimated there will be 54,000 new cases of oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer in 2021. Tobacco exposure and drinking alcohol are the main causes of head and neck cancer (HNC). Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is now increasing in prevalence and is the most common cause of oropharyngeal cancer in the United States. This study assessed the incidence of HNC and HPV status in American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations in California and determined if incidence was higher among AI/ANs compared to other ethnicities. We found that AI/AN and White patients had the highest burden of late-stage HNC and HPV+ lip, oral cavity, and pharynx cancer compared to other ethnicities. In addition, AI/ANs had a decreased survival rate compared to White patients. These findings reveal ethnic or racial differences in incidence, presentation, and survival, and should inform future preventative care measures for the AI/AN population.