Photo: Wade Swenson, Morris, Minnesota
A Vision for Rural Cancer Equity
Our mission is to illuminate the disparities in cancer care within rural communities and to advocate for innovative solutions that bridge this gap.
We envision a future where every rural American facing cancer receives equitable health care, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey toward healing and recovery.
Addressing Challenges in Rural Cancer Care
Rural populations face significant challenges compared to urban areas, including high poverty rates, lower educational attainment, and a lack of public health resources. Social determinants of health (SDOH), such as food deserts, transportation barriers, and limited job opportunities, greatly affect the well-being of rural communities.
Rural America is diverse. Historically, Blacks were the largest minority population in rural areas, but by the 2010 census, Hispanics had become the largest group. Health disparities and outcomes vary among different rural populations, including those in Appalachia, the Mississippi Delta, the Plains States, and Alaska, as well as Blacks in the South, Latinos in the West, and American Indians, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.
Additional factors contributing to rural health disparities include a higher likelihood of being uninsured, exposure to environmental carcinogens from agricultural and industrial production, and limited broadband connectivity or access to telehealth. Medical mistrust, misinformation, fatalism, and discrimination also hinder access to healthcare services.
Rural infrastructure presents its own challenges. Limited public transportation makes it difficult to access healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and other essential services. Many rural communities lack nearby hospitals, clinics, and specialized care providers, forcing residents to travel long distances for medical attention.
Economically, rural areas often rely heavily on a single industry, such as agriculture, mining, or manufacturing. This dependence can lead to economic instability and limited employment opportunities, contributing to persistent poverty.
Despite these challenges, rural communities demonstrate resilience through strong social networks and community-driven solutions. Investing in rural health infrastructure, expanding broadband access, improving public transportation, and addressing social determinants of health are essential steps to improve the well-being of rural populations.