Building Capacity for Cancer Control in Appalachia

Data from the central Appalachian Region show disparities in excess morbidity and mortality in cancers of the lung and colon, and historical disparities in cervical cancer incidence and mortality. Contributing to the cancer burden are limited access to quality care, lack of insurance, lack of education. and limited literacy skills. There are, however, characteristics of the people of this region that have contributed to the successful implementation of community initiated interventions. The Community Cancer Education Program is a grassroots initiative designed to encourage and empower community organizations to implement effective cancer education projects. This Program allows health issues identified as important at the local level to be addressed with audiences not otherwise reached. This presentation will describe the region and the factors that led to enhanced cancer control capacity.