Menu
More than 5,250 people are diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. every day, making it the second leading cause of death in this country.
While no one is immune to the threat of cancer, it takes a heavier toll on certain racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. This often includes individuals living at or below the federal poverty level, with those having an annual household income of less than $25,000 being hit the hardest. By and large, low-income individuals experience greater challenges accessing the life-saving care and treatment they need.
As a result, underserved and disadvantaged cancer patients often do not participate in clinical trials that offer access to potentially life-changing investigational drugs and therapies. The lack of diversity in clinical research also limits the scientific community from studying and understanding why certain cancers such as breast, liver, lung, cervical and prostate cancer have a greater impact on select racial and ethnic groups.
To combat the crippling inequities in cancer care and to help address the overall lack of diversity in clinical trials, Gateway for Cancer Research has launched the Cancer Health Equities Initiative – Removing Barriers – Closing the Gap.
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
For disadvantaged and marginalized populations, participating in cancer clinical trials can be especially challenging due to barriers such as lack of access to reliable transportation to get to trial sites, inability to afford food and housing while receiving treatment, and limited options for childcare during long appointments.
Imagine facing the overwhelming basics of daily life while battling a cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is the reality for many and why Gateway is on a mission to change that. We’re tackling these challenges head-on to increase participation in cancer clinical trials, ensuring new therapies are tested on diverse populations.
Minority populations have an increased risk of developing and dying from certain types of cancer including breast, cervical, colorectal, kidney, liver, lung, pancreas, prostate, stomach, uterine and multiple myeloma.
Underserved and disadvantaged communities face more obstacles accessing care and covering costs associated with lifesaving treatment.
When patients can’t receive equitable care, they unjustly suffer deadly consequences.
Previous slide
Next slide
THE CAMPAIGN
An annual, $2 million fundraising campaign, the Cancer Health Disparities Initiative aims to raise awareness of the inequities in cancer care while increasing access to clinical trials for minority, marginalized and disadvantaged patients. More specifically, funds raised will support an early phase clinical trial for a cancer type that is known to disproportionately affect minorities.
BE THE DIFFERENCE
Supporting the Cancer Health Equities Initiative – Removing Barriers – Closing the Gap will allow us to help patients facing cancer TODAY that are in desperate need of equitable care now.
We can make a lasting impact with patients and families battling cancer today by delivering the healing power of HOPE while discovering the cancer treatments of tomorrow.
Please join us in changing the face of cancer care for EVERYONE.
