Abstract 6198: Framework for Pacific Island Cancer and Obesity Across the Lifespan: PICOLI, A multi-dataset analysis approach
Authors: Ashley B. Yamanaka, Michelle B. Laguana, Marie Chong, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Rachel Novotny, Grazyna Badowski, Lynne R. Wilkens
Journal: Cancer Research (2025)

Abstract Background: Pacific Islanders experience disproportionate rates of obesity and cancer, contributing to morbidity and mortality. Comprehensive analyses examining obesity and cancer across age groups are limited. Objective: We propose to develop a framework identify and harmonize existing datasets to assess lifestyle factors, obesity, and cancer across various age groups, with a focus on Pacific Islander populations. Methods: We have identified several key datasets for this analysis, including the the Children’s Healthy Living Program (CHL), Pacific Islands Cohort on Cardiometabolic Health (PICCAH), Breast Cancer Risk Project (BRISK), and Multiethnic Cohort Study (MEC). These datasets contain approximately 22, 000 participants from 2-80 years old, which capture essential factors, such as body mass index, physical activity levels, dietary habits, sleep behavior, tobacco use, and cancer incidence. Expected Outcomes: The framework will guide future research to provide insights between lifestyle factors, obesity, and cancer risk that evolve throughout life. Anticipated identification of consistent patterns across age groups and potential modifiable lifestyle factors associated with reduced cancer risk. We will contribute valuable knowledge about the long-term effects of lifestyle factors on obesity and cancer risk in Pacific populations. Inform public health strategies tailored to address significant health disparities in this population. Conclusion: Developing this analytical framework aims to bridge current gaps in understanding the complex relationships between lifestyle factors, obesity, and cancer risk among Pacific Islanders, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes. Future researchers can apply this framework to existing datasets, facilitating comprehensive analyses across age groups and potentially guiding targeted interventions. Table 1. Key Datasets for Pacific Island Cancer and Obesity Across the Lifespan Study Study Name Children’s Healthy Living Program (CHL) Pacific Islands Cohort on Cardiometabolic Health (PICCAH) Breast Cancer Risk Project (BRISK) Multiethnic Cohort(MEC) Participants, n 1, 263 500 dyads 245 ∼20, 000 Age, years 2 - 8y 4 - 10y &amp; 21 - 50y (biological adult parents) 25 - 80y 45 - 79y Study Design Cross-sectional and Randomized Controlled Trial Cohort Case Control Cohort Location CNMI, Guam, Hawaii Guam CNMI, Guam Hawaii Health Outcome Obesity, Acanthosis nigricans Obesity, Diabetes, Acanthosis nigricans Breast Cancer, Diabetes All Cancers, Diabetes Measured Anthropometry Height, weight, waist circumference Height, weight, waist circumference Height, weight, waist circumference Height, weight, waist circumference Lifestyle Measures Diet, physical activity, sleep Diet, physical activity, sleep, tobacco use Diet, physical activity, tobacco use Diet, physical activity, sleep, tobacco use Citation Format: Ashley B. Yamanaka, Michelle B. Laguana, Marie Chong, Rachael T. Leon Guerrero, Rachel Novotny, Grazyna Badowski, Lynne R. Wilkens. Framework for Pacific Island Cancer and Obesity Across the Lifespan: PICOLI, A multi-dataset analysis approach [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 6198.