Social Justice and Equity: Why Older Adults With Cancer Belong-A Life Course Perspective

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Equity Research

Background:

• The population of older adults with cancer is growing, impacting healthcare workforces.
• Social inequities create psychosocial stressors, leading to cancer disparities in marginalized groups.
• Older adults, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, are underrepresented in cancer research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a multifactorial framework for understanding and addressing cancer disparities.
• To advance social justice and health equity for racially and ethnically diverse older adults.
• To emphasize the need for a holistic view of health determinants in cancer.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a life course approach.
• Analyzing social determinants of health in the context of cancer.
• Developing a framework for addressing cancer disparities.

Main Results:

• The paper outlines a framework integrating biological, environmental, behavioral, and social factors.
• Highlights the critical role of social determinants in cancer health disparities.
• Emphasizes the necessity of representation for marginalized older adults in research.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of social determinants of health is essential for cancer equity.
• Adopting a holistic view beyond biological factors is critical for addressing disparities.
• The proposed framework aims to advance social justice and health equity in cancer care for older adults.