Examining the most relevant conceptualization of the socioeconomic status construct for cancer research

Although previous research has established a link between socioeconomic status (SES) and cancer outcomes, there is still little understanding of the processes that contribute to these outcome disparities.

This study aimed to describe the ways a family's SES influences their healthcare behavior after a child is diagnosed with cancer.

The sample included 5 case study families and in-depth interviews with 21 parents. Case study families were interviewed and observed once a month for 6 months.

Parents' finances influenced their ability to maintain household expenses and to pay for healthcare expenses and household help. Wealth and help from friends and family are important aspects of families' financial statuses. Parents' educational attainment affected their ability to understand diagnosis and treatment options, their confidence and communication with healthcare professionals, and the utility of their social networks. Parents' occupation influenced their work schedule flexibility, fringe benefits, and their access to and quality of employer-sponsored health insurance.

Findings suggest that 3 overarching domains of SES (eg, financial, education, and occupation) have important implications for parents' healthcare navigation. This study underscores the need to use a nuanced set of SES measures (beyond income and education) in future research to enhance our understanding of how SES affects healthcare navigation and refine intervention initiatives designed to help reduce health disparities.

Cancer education initiatives should focus on enhancing patient-provider interactions, health communication, accessing health information, and resolving work and financial barriers to cancer care.