A literature review on kidney cancer outcomes among Indigenous populations in Canada, the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, 1990−2023

Authors

  • Megan Lowe School of Medicine, Queen’s University
  • Sayna Leylachian Ontario Health
  • Sydney Glac University of Guelph
  • Lisa K. Ellison Indigenous Health Unit, Ontario Health
  • Brenda Elias University of Manitoba
  • Alethea Kewayosh Indigenous Health Unit, Ontario Health
  • Amanda J. Sheppard Indigenous Health Unit, Ontario Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.9546

Keywords:

INDIGENOUS, KIDNEY CANCER, RISK FACTORS, INCIDENCE, MORTALITY, SURVIVAL

Abstract

Introduction: Rates of kidney cancer incidence and mortality have risen globally, with Indigenous populations in countries such as Canada, the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia disproportionally impacted. This literature review was aimed to summarize current evidence on kidney cancer outcomes among Indigenous populations in these countries.

Methods: A structured literature review on kidney cancer outcomes among Indigenous populations in Canada, the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia was conducted using Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE databases. Articles that were in the English language and published between 1990 and 2023 were screened and appraised for inclusion in the review.

Results: The search strategy initially identified 1868 records, of which 136 were reviewed in detail; 74 records were included. Most studies were based in the U.S. Overall, findings demonstrated that Indigenous populations have higher incidence and mortality rates of kidney cancer compared to non-Indigenous populations. This disparity was also accompanied by a higher prevalence of or exposure to known risk factors for kidney cancer. Additionally, Indigenous populations faced barriers to accessing treatment for kidney cancer, and when treatment is received, it is often more invasive.

Conclusions: Indigenous populations in Canada and U.S. have a disproportionally higher burden of kidney cancer. These findings highlighted the need for targeted and improved cancer surveillance and control efforts in Indigenous populations. Culturally appropriate preventive measures are needed to address risk factors, carcinogenic exposures, target Indigenous-specific determinants of health, and reduce the unique barriers to accessing healthcare services.

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Published

2026-09-25

How to Cite

Lowe, M., Leylachian, S., Glac, S., Ellison, L. K., Elias, B., Kewayosh, A., & Sheppard, A. J. (2026). A literature review on kidney cancer outcomes among Indigenous populations in Canada, the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, 1990−2023. Canadian Urological Association Journal, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.9546

Issue

Vol. 21 No. 1 (2027): CUAJ January

Section

Review

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