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Barriers to Equitable Pediatric Oncologic Care in the United States
Meaghan Mormann1, Ayah El-Khatib2, Lindsay J Blazin3
1University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital.
Insights
Pediatric cancer survival is improving, but racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the US hinder equitable benefits. Addressing these health inequities requires systemic changes for better child cancer outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Health Disparities Research
- Health Equity
Background:
- Pediatric cancer survival rates have improved.
- Significant health disparities persist for children and adolescents in the United States.
- These inequities prevent equitable benefit from medical advancements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine health inequities in pediatric cancer diagnoses.
- To investigate factors including race, ethnicity, language, socioeconomic status, and geography.
- To understand the impact of these factors on diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted.
- 33 articles were identified and reviewed.
- Analysis focused on intersecting factors affecting pediatric cancer care.
Main Results:
- Black and Hispanic patients experience poorer survival rates.
- Language barriers correlate with delayed care and higher mortality.
- Low socioeconomic status and lack of insurance lead to late diagnoses and nonadherence.
- Rural and marginalized urban residents face increased mortality.
- Disparities in clinical trial enrollment limit access to novel therapies.
Conclusions:
- Systemic reform is essential to address pediatric cancer disparities.
- Culturally informed care and inclusive research practices are needed.
- Ensuring equitable outcomes for all children requires targeted interventions.
Abstract:
Although survival rates for pediatric cancer diagnoses have improved significantly, persistent health disparities prevent many children and adolescents in the United States from reaping equitable benefit from this progress. This review examines inequities related to race and ethnicity, language preference, socioeconomic status, and geographic location. A literature search identified 33 articles highlighting how these factors intersect to affect diagnosis, treatment access, clinical trial participation, and outcomes. Black patients and Hispanic patients face consistently poorer survival, while language barriers are linked to delayed care and increased mortality. Low socioeconomic status and lack of insurance contribute to late-stage diagnoses and treatment nonadherence. Residence in rural areas or historically marginalized urban neighborhoods are associated with increased mortality. Disparities in clinical trial enrollment further limit access to cutting-edge therapies and weaken the generalizability of research. Addressing these disparities requires systemic reform, culturally informed care, and inclusive research practices to ensure equitable outcomes.
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