Abstract A35: Barriers to cancer genetic risk assessment in the border region of south Texas

Historically, low- and middle-income countries have lower breast cancer rates than more economically developed countries. Yet, as these countries adopt a more Westernized lifestyle their populations face growing rates of heart disease, depression, diabetes, and cancer. The Rio Grande Valley of south Texas is home to a rapidly growing minority population. Since 2000, Cameron, Hidalgo, and Webb counties in South Texas have experienced population growth rates of 24.5%, 43.3%, and 35.9%, respectively1. Residents of these counties, located along the United States-Mexican border, are largely Hispanic (88.5% - 95.3%) and predominantly of Mexican descent, with more than one quarter born outside the U.S. Approximately one-third of the population lives below the poverty line and adult illiteracy levels approach 50%2. Colonias - small communities comprised of immigrants along the border - often lack basic necessities, such as electricity, plumbing, and safe housing. There are 958 registered colonias in Hidalgo County alone. These underserved populations are more likely to be uninsured, and as a result, less likely to regularly access preventative healthcare. Indeed, Hispanic women are more likely to present to care for breast cancer in advanced stages3.Multiple challenges and barriers exist in providing clinical services to this population, both cultural and institutional. With specific regard to cancer prevention, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends genetic risk assess...
Source: Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Genetic Testing and Counseling: Poster Presentations - Proffered Abstracts Source Type: research