Pathways to Improving Breast Health Outcomes in Neighborhoods with Concentrated Poverty

University Of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr, Memphis TN

Investigators

Abstract

Differences in breast health outcomes are widespread and lack a clear understanding about why they exist in the United States. This project will quantify how neighborhood characteristics, particularly concentrated poverty, contribute to differences in two breast health outcomes: late-stage diagnosis and mortality. Our overall objective is to identify modifiable community factors and effective policy pathways for improving overall breast health outcomes. Enriched by a mixed-method design, we link longitudinal population-based state cancer registry data with CDC mortality data and Census/ACS zip code level measures. We will conduct focus groups and interviews with breast cancer survivors, city planners, political analysts, and policymakers in Memphis, TN, to characterize community level factors shaped by local decisions and policies. Quantitative and qualitative factors will be integrated to (1) estimate the contribution of neighborhood/community characteristics to breast health outcome differences, and 2) identify actionable policy and community levers associated with earlier stage of breast cancer diagnosis and lower mortality. The results will provide an empirical foundation for planning and evaluating policy options that reduce late-stage diagnosis and mortality for women who live in high poverty areas.