International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

New research has indicated that women of Hispanic origin who migrate to the US are at a greater risk of developing certain cancers than other ethnic groups.

According to a study conducted by the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, US, Mexican women moving to Florida are more likely to develop cervical cancer than existing US citizens, reports the New York Times.

In addition, those hailing from Puerto Rico see their likelihood of developing the condition increase upon arrival in the US, researchers claim.

Lead researcher Paulo Pinheiro told the Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention journal that further study was required to determine the cause of the increases.

However, he suggested that where the Puerto Rican women were concerned, the development of unhealthy living habits upon arrival in Florida was a contributing factor.

Dr Pinheiro said: "Beneficial behaviours learned from one's homeland should be preserved and there are some lifestyles in the US that probably should not be adopted."

Last week, the Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch at the US National Cancer Institute reported that Aids sufferers are at greater risk of developing cancers associated with human papillomavirus, such as cervical cancer.