Socioeconomic differences have effects on epidemiological profile of cancer as regards incidence, mortality, survival and quality of life after diagnosis. In this study are examined the inequalities of cancer occurrence in the Brazilian population and summarized the evidences of epidemiological research on social determinants in cancer. The main factors that modulate the influence of socioeconomic conditions in cancer are considered, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet and obesity, occupation, and access to health services. Modifications of social conditions depend on broader changes in society, as improvements of educational level; however, well-conducted epidemiological investigations can instruct the planning of interventions aimed at reducing the impact of social determinants on cancer. These studies should focus on methods to improve the quality of information on incidence and mortality; regular population surveys on the prevalence of cancer risk factors; study designs to examine cancer etiological factors in its relations with social status; implementation and assessment of effectiveness of screening programs for early detection of tumors; and evaluation of access to diagnosis and treatment. These researches should include populations in different regions of the world, particularly those living in places that lack the benefits provided by the dynamics of the present global economic system.
cancer; socioeconomic conditions; inequalities in health