Urban–Rural Disparities in Access to Low-Dose Computed Tomography Lung Cancer Screening in Missouri and Illinois

Abstract

What is already known on this topic? Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer is recommended for current and former smokers meeting eligibility criteria. As of 2017, rural areas generally had less geographic access to LDCT screening than urban areas. What is added by this report? Despite the recent proliferation of LDCT screening, rural areas in Missouri and Illinois have low levels of access to screening. We observed no association between geographic access to screening and lung cancer mortality. What are the implications for public health practice? As LDCT screening becomes more widespread, future studies need to evaluate its effects on population-level lung cancer mortality rates in urban and rural areas.

Immune-Based Cancer Treatment: Addressing Disparities in Access and Outcomes

“…Although these discoveries could benefit everyone, differences in access may widen preexisting cancer care and outcome gaps, leading to negative social consequences. [32][33][34] Therefore, there is an urgent need to transition from describing patterns and associations to implementing and evaluating interventions to mitigate avoidable differences between individuals of different socioeconomic or demographic groups. [23][24][25][32][33][34][35] In the absence of active interventions, health care disparities will continue to worsen, reflecting broader social and economic dynamics.…”

Expanded Access to Lung Cancer Screening—Implementing Wisely to Optimize Health

“…Expanded Access to Lung Cancer Screening-Implementing Wisely to Optimize Health These subspecialists may be in short supply in lower-resource settings but are necessary to minimize unnecessary invasive testing and to promptly diagnose and treat identified cancers. It is not surprising that rural patients, for example, have disparities in LCS access 15. To scale LCS to even more eligible individuals under the new guidelines[3][4][5] would require considerable investment in CT scanners, radiologists, LCS coordinators, EHR updates-all the many components required to make this intervention effective and efficient.These barriers are not insurmountable.…”

Advancing Health Equity, Eliminating Health Disparities, and Improving Population Health

“…Urban–Rural Disparities in Access to Low-Dose Computed Tomography Lung Cancer Screening in Missouri and Illinois ( 14 )…”

“…Geographic location continues to be an important contributor in shaping access to timely and necessary screening and treatment options ( 33 ). Rohatgi et al conducted original research examining relationships among rurality, sociodemographic characteristics, and access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer and screening access and lung cancer mortality ( 14 ). This study revealed that more than 97% of metropolitan residents had access to LCDT screening, compared with just over 40% of nonmetropolitan residents.…”

“…Qualitative research is a necessary exploratory approach that can be used to better understand and improve health equity research and practice. Olson and her team of researchers conducted 10 listening sessions and 28 interviews with people from diverse backgrounds to identify themes in causes, solutions, and opportunities to collaborate across sectors to address cancer disparities (13). Researchers validated the use of qualitative approaches to engage diverse participants representing many different sectors.…”