Advancing the Access to Cancer Training, Information, Outreach, and Navigation (ACTION) Project for CHW Dissemination of Resources to At-Risk Texas Regions
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NEED Texas ranks second in the nation in number of individuals diagnosed with liver cancer and fifth in the nation in number of deaths caused by liver cancer. Liver cancer is the most rapidly increasing cancer in both men and women, with incidence rates more than tripling and death rates doubling since 1980. Additionally, Texas ranks 41st in number of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer and 40th in the number of deaths caused by lung cancer. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related mortality for both men and women. In Texas, only 17.3 percent of lung cancer cases are detected early, when survival rates can be as high as 55 percent; detection at later stage yields only a 4.5 p... Read More NEED Texas ranks second in the nation in number of individuals diagnosed with liver cancer and fifth in the nation in number of deaths caused by liver cancer. Liver cancer is the most rapidly increasing cancer in both men and women, with incidence rates more than tripling and death rates doubling since 1980. Additionally, Texas ranks 41st in number of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer and 40th in the number of deaths caused by lung cancer. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related mortality for both men and women. In Texas, only 17.3 percent of lung cancer cases are detected early, when survival rates can be as high as 55 percent; detection at later stage yields only a 4.5 percent survival rate nationally. Liver cancer, although less prevalent than several other cancers, has low survival rates and incidence of liver cancer is on the rise – particularly in regions of Texas. In fact, Texas has a higher rate of mortality from liver cancer than any other state.7 There are also racial and ethnic disparities in liver cancer outcomes, with Hispanics and Blacks less likely to get early diagnosis and treatment.8 Rural and medically underserved counties in Texas with lower socioeconomic status have additional barriers to diagnosis and treatment, such as access and transportation. These statistics indicate that there is need to develop statewide strategies to promote cancer education, improve screening rates, and increase early stage diagnoses. OVERALL PROJECT STRATEGY This project proposes to continue and expand dissemination activities previously funded as CPRIT PP160048. Our proposed project utilizes CHWs and the CHW model to conduct both active and passive dissemination and implementation strategies to improve cancer education, navigation, and outreach throughout the state of Texas. Utilizing community health workers (CHWs) is a nationally recognized, evidence-based, culturally competent approach for improving population health. CHWs are defined as frontline public health workers who are trusted members of a community.........