Everyday Health’s Cancer Disparities Twitter Chat: Here’s What You Missed – Everyday Health

June 30, 2021 Kim Martel

ATOPP Summit: Approximately 90 percent of the U.S. population lives within five to six miles of a #pharmacy. But we also know that disproportionately underserved populations have fewer options and less access to a #pharmacist in the community.

And not all people with #cancer have access to a #pharmacist, despite being treated at large medical facilities. We know outcomes for everyone can improve when #pharmacists are part of a patient’s medical team.

Dr. David W. Lim: Health insurance and health coverage matters are important factors in access to care. Interestingly, in Canada, despite universal healthcare coverage, we have the same disparities with socioeconomic status, geography (rural versus urban), and such.

EH: How do we see disparities show up in the context of #cancer screening and treatment, and what can we do about it?

Erika Stallings: Black women experience disparities at all aspects of the breast cancer journey: Diagnosed at earlier ages, diagnosed when disease has advanced to a later stage, less likely to be offered a referral to genetic counseling and testing.

Prostate Cancer Foundation: Black men may not be aware of their increased risk for #prostatecancer. Hispanic or Latino men are less likely to get screened due to lack of educational materials in their preferred language and being less likely to have a regular doctor.

Disparities also exist in #prostatecancer diagnostics and treatment (delay, or receipt of guideline-appropriate care). It’s important to note that Black men do as well or better when access to care is equalized (such as in the VA system or clinical trials).

Sean Marchese: The most egregious disparities in cancer care occur during screening, or a lack thereof. Patients who can’t afford regular doctor visits or expensive tests are more often diagnosed with late-stage disease. Advanced illness means fewer options.