The CITIES Project: Understanding the Health of Underrepresented Populations in Ohio

Ohio, the catchment area of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC), includes diverse populations with different cancer profiles. As part of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-funded initiative to conduct population health assessments in cancer center catchment areas, the OSUCCC surveyed residents, focusing on factors contributing to cancer disparities in Ohio populations.

Two sampling strategies were used: (i) probability sampling of mailing lists and (ii) convenience sampling at community events, coupled with phone/in-person/web surveys. Survey items were chosen along multilevel framework constructs, used in concert with other funded NCI-Designated Cancer Centers. Multivariable logistic regression models investigated predictors associated with health behaviors, cancer beliefs, knowledge, and screening.

The sample of 1,005 respondents were white (46.6%), African American (24.7%), Hispanic (13.7%), Somali (7.6%), and Asian (7.5%). A total of 216 respondents were Appalachian. Variations in cancer attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors were noted by racial/ethnic and geographic group. Multivariable models identified individuals with less financial security as less likely to exercise or be within guidelines for screening, but more likely to smoke and have a poor diet. At the community-level, measures of poverty were highest in Appalachia, whereas children in female-headed households were greater in urban minority areas.

This population health assessment reinforced the diversity of the OSUCCC catchment area. These populations are ripe for implementation science strategies, focusing in communities and clinics that serve vulnerable populations.

Understanding attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors of this population can assist tailoring outreach and research strategies to lessen the cancer burden.