Optimal lung cancer outcomes for people from rural and remote areas: An overview of the problem and a research program to reduce disparities.

Abstract

People living in rural and remote communities have higher smoking rates and lung cancer diagnoses than their metropolitan counterparts. Tobacco use is a significant risk factor, contributing to approximately 90% of lung cancers in males and 65% in females. Additionally, age-standardised mortality rates for lung cancer increase with geographical remoteness. People with cancer from rural and remote areas often experience delays in diagnosis and treatment. Accessing infrastructure such as CT imaging and radiation therapy can pose a challenge in these regions, impacting timely and effective lung cancer diagnosis and care. Addressing these disparities and inequities in rural and remote areas requires dedicated research. This abstract presents an overview of the Equitable Cancer Outcomes across Rural and Remote Australia (ECORRA) program, which aims to improve cancer outcomes through targeted strategies and interventions.