Using Catchment Area Data to Guide a Breast Cancer Health Equity Task Force Efforts in the Heartland

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Breast cancer (BC) mortality remains significantly higher for Black and African American (B/AA) women compared to White women, indicating persistent health inequities.
• The University of Kansas Cancer Center's Breast Cancer Health Equity Task Force (BCHETF) was established to address these disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement targeted interventions promoting BC prevention and early detection among B/AA women.
• To address systemic barriers contributing to BC health disparities.

Main Methods:

• Data-driven insights were used to map census tracts with high B/AA population density for targeted screening and outreach.
• Evidence-based interventions (EBIs) were employed.
• Focus groups explored patient-level experiences, while telementoring and practice facilitation addressed provider-level gaps in risk assessment and screening.

Main Results:

• Data visualization identified key areas for focused intervention, aiding in resource allocation.
• Ongoing research explores patient and provider perspectives to refine interventions.
• Initial efforts demonstrate a commitment to data-informed strategies for improving BC outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The BCHETF is actively working to reduce BC health disparities among B/AA women through targeted, data-driven strategies.
• Improving access to BC screening and enhancing care delivery are crucial for promoting health equity.
• Continued efforts are necessary to overcome limitations and achieve equitable breast cancer outcomes for all women.