U.S. Latino population composition change and comprehensive cancer centers

Background: We describe a typology characterizing population trends of U.S. Latinos/Hispanics from 1990 to 2000 with respect to National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers (CCCs) and corresponding consolidated metropolitan statistical or metropolitan statistical areas (CMSA/MSAs). Methods: Using U.S. Census Bureau data, we constructed population pyramids to analyze population growth and composition for each CMSA/MSA with a CCC. Results: We identified four types of population growth and composition: Type I - Very Fast and Unstable; Type II - Fast and Unstable; Type III - Somewhat Fast and Stable; Type IV - Slow and Stable. Conclusions: The CCCs in areas with Types I and II population growth face the greatest challenges because of the lack of infrastructure for reaching medically underserved Latinos. In contrast, CCCs in areas with Types III and IV population growth may have significant infrastructure but must quickly develop interventions to reach and provide access to aging Latinos to reduce health disparities in cancer mortality and morbidity.