Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer presents unique challenges to underserved communities, where disparities in healthcare access, socioeconomic barriers, and lower health literacy levels contribute to worse outcomes. Individuals in these populations often face delayed diagnosis, limited access to specialized treatments, and poorer survival rates.
One of the primary issues is the lack of preventive screenings. For instance, in colorectal cancer, which is prevalent in GI cancers, early detection dramatically improves survival rates, yet underserved groups—particularly Black and rural populations—are less likely to receive timely screenings. Factors such as the high cost of colonoscopies, limited availability of healthcare facilities, and fear or mistrust of the medical system hinder participation in these life-saving practices. Some communities also face logistical challenges, like needing to travel long distances to receive care or struggling to take time off work for appointments.
Socioeconomic factors play a significant role. Many individuals in underserved communities are uninsured or underinsured, making it difficult to afford cancer treatment. Moreover, the high cost of cancer therapies and supportive care exacerbates the financial burden, limiting access to quality care. This is compounded by lower levels of medical literacy, making it challenging for patients to fully understand their diagnoses, treatment options, and the importance of adherence to medical recommendations.
Community outreach and education programs are crucial to addressing these disparities. These initiatives help raise awareness about the importance of early detection, screening programs, and lifestyle factors that contribute to cancer prevention. Localized efforts, such as mobile clinics and culturally sensitive education campaigns, are particularly effective in reaching these populations. Additionally, alternative screening methods, like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), can help reduce barriers to colorectal cancer screening by allowing patients to perform tests at home.
Expanding access to healthcare, improving affordability, and ensuring culturally competent care are essential steps in bridging the gap for underserved communities. Increasing representation in clinical trials and involving patients in decision-making can also contribute to better outcomes, empowering individuals to actively participate in their cancer care journey. By addressing these systemic issues, we can begin to mitigate the impact of GI cancer on underserved populations.
Work Cited
Pancholi, N. J., PhD. (2021, March 12). How community outreach can increase access to colorectal cancer screening in underserved populations - American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). https://www.aacr.org/blog/2021/03/09/how-community-outreach-can-increase-access-to-colorectal-cancer-screening-in-underserved-populations/
Food Insecurity, Neighborhood Food Environment, and Health Disparities: State of the Science, Research Gaps and Opportunities. (2024). In The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (No. p850-861). Angela Odoms-Young. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut
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