The American Society of Clinical Oncology has announced an ambitious policy regarding cancer care disparities. It will use strategies such as increasing research into cancer disparities, bolstering enrollment of minorities in cancer clinical trials, encouraging greater diversity in the oncology workforce, educating the oncology workforce about cultural issues and seeking equal access to quality healthcare. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/702142_print
This comes on the heels of an alarming report that from 2010 to 2030, the total projected cancer incidence will increase by approximately 45%, from 1.6 million in 2010 to 2.3 million in 2030. Included in the projections is an expected 99% increase in cancer incidence among ethnic minorities and a 67% increase in older Americans.
These numbers are staggering! We’re all so used to talking in billions and trillions now in this new “bailout-a-day” world we live in that this statistic might escape notice. A 99% increase in cancer among minorities?? And this is projected despite steady and stunning breakthroughs in cancer diagnostics and targeted treatment?
Closing these disparities is certainly part of the job of patient advocates and navigators who can work on behalf of those who would otherwise be lost to the system.
However, there needs to also be a vigorous discussion about why so many more people will get cancer. Why do so many people fail to take care of their bodies and health? It really IS about diet and exercise. So many problems could be fixed if people cared as much about their bodies as they do about material things. There’s no way around that. And yet…. We too often fail to treasure and respect the gift of our bodies and our health. It’s only when you’ve lost something that you truly appreciate it…
