Population health study finds socioeconomic and racial disparities in cancer screenings
Socioeconomic and racial disparities were found in health behaviors and receipt of cancer screening for patients in Indiana, according to a population health study from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and the Regenstrief Institute and published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
The study surveyed patients who lived in one of 34 Indiana counties with higher cancer mortality rates than the state average and who used a state-wide Indiana University health system at least once in the past year. The 34 counties included in the study cover both rural and urban areas.
One of the main takeaways from the survey was that individuals with low income (less than $20,000 per year) and low education, irrespective of race, had poor access to healthcare. The study also examined patients’ beliefs and behaviors around their interaction with the health system.
Some of the findings include:
- Black individuals were less likely to perceive they were at risk for cancer and less worried about getting cancer than white individuals
- Black women were six times more likely to have cervical cancer screening than white women
- Higher income (more than $50,000 per year) was associated with being screened for colorectal cancer in the past five years
- Higher income was associated with having a CT scan to screen for lung cancer in the past year
- Individuals, regardless of race, with the highest incomes were more likely to engage in physical activities
- Both income and education were inversely correlated to smoking—individuals with higher income and education levels smoked less
The ultimate takeaway from the study was greater understanding of populations for whom cancer disparities exist and more information about the geographic areas of the state where the cancer burden is disproportionately high. Ultimately the researchers hope such studies are helpful in decision-making about research priorities and public health spending.