Overcoming Disparities in Cancer: A Need for Meaningful Reform for Hispanic and Latino Cancer Survivors.

Overcoming Disparities in Cancer: A Need for Meaningful Reform for Hispanic and Latino Cancer Survivors. Oncologist. 2021 Feb 16;: Authors: Kronenfeld JP, Graves K, Penedo FJ, Yanez B Abstract Hispanic and Latino (HL) cancer survivors are at a critical disadvantage compared to non-Hispanic White (NHWs) patients regarding sociodemographic adversities and access to equitable treatment options. By 2030, there will be about four million HL cancer survivors in the US, representing nearly 20% of survivors in this country. Hispanics and Latinos are subjected to significant challenges in accessing and receiving equitable care relative to NHWs. Hispanics and Latinos also experience lower rates of health insurance and financial resources, limiting healthcare options. These disparities often originate from disparate social determinants of health including lower funding for education and school programs, greater neighborhood stressors and violence, lower access to healthy and affordable food, and greater barriers to community health/exercise opportunities. Even among HLs with proper access to healthcare, they experience disparate treatment options including low inclusion in clinical trials and/or access to experimental therapies. A solution to these barriers necessitates complex and systemic changes that involve, for example, investing in public health programs, increasing the diversity and cultural awareness of the medical workforce, and promot...
Source: The Oncologist - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Oncologist Source Type: research