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Urban-based Native American cancer-control activities: services and perceptions
A M Michalek1, M C Mahoney, L Burhansstipanov
1Department of Education, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA.
Summary
Cancer care needs for urban American Indians are not being met. Health directors report limited focus on cancer control, highlighting a critical gap in services for this population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Disparities
- Cancer Control
Background:
- Cancer incidence and mortality are increasing in American Indian communities.
- Limited data exists on cancer control activities for American Indians, especially in urban settings.
- Over half of Native peoples reside in urban areas, yet their specific cancer needs are understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the availability of cancer control services for urban American Indians.
- To understand the perceptions of health directors regarding cancer control in urban clinics.
- To identify gaps in cancer care for this underserved population.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among Indian Health Service-recognized urban clinics.
- The survey targeted health directors to ascertain service availability and perceptions.
- Data collected were compared with findings from a survey of reservation-based health directors.
Main Results:
- Urban American Indian cancer needs are inadequately addressed.
- Only one-third of urban health directors perceived increases in cancer incidence and mortality.
- Cancer was ranked fifth out of seven health problems by urban clinics in terms of commitment.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant need for improved cancer control programs in urban American Indian communities.
- Researchers must be made aware of the broader health needs of these communities.
- Developing more responsive cancer control strategies is crucial for improving health outcomes.