Despite advancements in screening and treatment, marginalized communities remain disproportionately affected by lung cancer due to limited access and various social and structural challenges.
Recognizing this critical issue, officials with GO2 for Lung Cancer have developed a framework to address lung cancer health disparities. Progress on their initiative was discussed during the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC)’s 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer, held in San Diego, California.1
Researchers, including Shanada Monestime, PharmD, who is the director of community-engaged research for GO2 for Lung Cancer, sought to “create a centralized repository of lung cancer disparities data, and then use this data to create a strategic framework to target those in most need for our outreach efforts.”
The initiative began with a literature review, identifying 95 peer-reviewed academic journals and 24 reports published between 2000 and 2022. The journals and reports covered 10 key populations including: Black/African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Hispanic/Latinx, Asian American/Pacific Islander, low-income individuals, rural residents, LGBTQIA+ communities, women, active-duty military and veterans, and those at risk for or diagnosed with small cell lung cancer.
That research, which was published in 2023, noted consistent disparities in lung cancer screening and treatment methods, which often exhibited, according to the researchers, “by lower uptake in screening, treatment, clinical trials, and biomarker testing.” They also noted that there were disparities in socioeconomic status, insurance, and transportation issues.
Each department within GO2 for Lung Cancer was then tasked with presenting a framework, including up to 3 strategies for 2024, to address these health disparities.
The researchers noted that their recommendations highlight a need for ongoing research to develop meaningful solutions to health disparities in lung cancer outcomes and access. Future studies will be crucial in refining and expanding the framework to ensure it effectively addresses the needs of those most at risk.
GO2 for Lung Cancer’s initiative aims to provide comprehensive care and support to all individuals affected by lung cancer. This strategic framework serves as a model for other organizations seeking to address health disparities in cancer care.
Reference
- Phipps NM, Rigney M, Monestime S, et al. Development of a framework to address lung cancer health disparities: one organization’s experience. Presented at the 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer; September 7-10, 2024; San Diego, CA. P2.16C.02