nrc.nl
Socioeconomic Disparities in Cancer Survival
A study reveals a significant disparity in cancer survival rates between low and high-income individuals, highlighting the impact of socioeconomic factors on cancer care and quality of life.
Dutch
Netherlands
HealthLabour MarketHealthcareCancerInequalitySurvivalSocioeconomic
Integraal Kankercentrum Nederland (Iknl)
Mieke Aarts
- What is the IKNL's call to action in response to these findings?
- More research is needed to understand the root causes of these disparities and to develop strategies for improving cancer care for low-income individuals. The IKNL encourages collaboration to address socioeconomic inequalities in healthcare.
- Which types of cancer show the largest survival differences based on income?
- The largest survival difference between income groups is observed in two types of skin cancer for both men and women. Other cancers show varying degrees of disparity, with some showing no difference.
- How does quality of life differ between low and high-income cancer survivors?
- Survivors with lower incomes experience a lower quality of life, reporting more pain, fatigue, and job loss after their diagnosis compared to higher-income survivors.
- What factors are suggested as potential contributors to the observed disparities?
- The study controlled for age, disease stage, and treatment type, yet significant income-related survival differences persisted. Lifestyle and social environment are suggested as potential contributing factors.
- What is the overall difference in five-year cancer survival rates between low and high-income individuals?
- Low-income individuals have a 10% lower chance of surviving cancer after five years compared to high-income individuals. This disparity is more pronounced in men (12%) than women (7%).