Not everyone experiences cancer the same way. While the disease itself doesn’t discriminate, the systems surrounding diagnosis, treatment, and support too often do. Racial disparities in cancer care are a longstanding and unacceptable reality—affecting when cancer is found, what treatments are offered, and ultimately, who survives.
This isn’t just a question of fairness. It’s a public health crisis that demands urgent attention and lasting change.
Where the Gaps Begin
Later Diagnoses, Worse Outcomes
Black Americans have lower survival rates for most cancers and are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, when treatment options are fewer and outcomes are poorer.
Barriers to Access
From lack of insurance to transportation challenges and fewer nearby treatment centers, many people of color face real and persistent barriers to getting timely, high-quality care.
Inconsistent Quality
Even when care is available, it’s not always equitable. Research shows that Black and Hispanic patients are less likely to receive treatment that aligns with national guidelines and more likely to experience delays.
Lack of Representation in Research
When communities aren’t included in clinical trials, we all lose. Treatments may be less effective—or less understood—for groups who weren’t part of the research.
Why These Disparities Persist
The reasons behind these disparities are complex—and deeply rooted:
- Socioeconomic Inequities: Lower income, fewer educational opportunities, and limited resources contribute to both increased risk and worse outcomes.
- Language and Cultural Barriers: Miscommunication and cultural disconnects can lead to missed screenings, mistrust, and disengagement.
- Systemic Bias: Implicit bias in healthcare can shape who gets screened, referred, or treated—and how quickly.
- Environmental Risks: Communities of color are more likely to live and work in environments that increase cancer risk.
How We Close the Gap
Fixing this isn’t about one solution. It’s about working together—across systems, sectors, and communities—to ensure everyone gets the care they deserve.
- Expand Access to Care: From mobile clinics to telehealth, we need to meet people where they are—physically and financially.
- Invest in Education and Advocacy: Culturally responsive, linguistically appropriate support helps people make informed decisions about prevention, screening, and treatment.
- Standardize Care Quality: Equitable care starts with consistent, guideline-driven treatment—and providers trained in cultural humility and bias awareness.
- Diversify Clinical Trials: Research must reflect the people it’s meant to help. Community partnerships, logistical support, and earned trust are key.
- Tackle the Root Causes: Better housing. Safer jobs. Access to education and nutrition. These are health interventions, too.
Signs of Progress
Some programs are leading the way:
- NCI’s Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) brings cancer research and care into underserved communities, so people can participate close to home.
- Patient Navigation Programs help people overcome logistical and emotional barriers to care.
- State and Local Outreach Efforts, like mobile mammography vans, are bringing screening directly into communities that need it most.
A Shared Responsibility—And a Role for Ardynn
Health equity in cancer care isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s essential. When we make care more just, more inclusive, and more accessible, we improve outcomes for everyone.
At Ardynn, we’re proud to be part of that change. Our advocates provide personalized, culturally attuned support that helps people with cancer understand their options, overcome barriers, and feel seen and heard throughout their care. We meet individuals where they are—emotionally, practically, and clinically—because no one should face cancer alone, and no one’s outcome should depend on their race or background. We help fill this gap, by providing treatment decision support based on relevant data, that is representative of the member’s age, sex, race, and health status. So they can make decision that make sense for them.
Equity is not just a goal—it’s our everyday work. Together, we can create a system where every person has the opportunity to thrive.
Sources
- American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures for African American/Black People. (2021)
- National Cancer Institute. Cancer Disparities. (2022)
- Freeman, H. P., & Rodriguez, R. L. History and principles of patient navigation. Cancer, 117(S15), 3539–3542. (2011)
