Using Catchment Area Data to Guide a Breast Cancer Health Equity Task Force Efforts in the Heartland.

Abstract

Despite advances in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer (BC), inequity persists, and the BC mortality rate remains approximately 40% higher among Black and African American (B/AA) women compared to White (W) women. In response to The University of Kansas Cancer Center's Catchment Area Steering Committee identified priorities, the Breast Cancer Health Equity Task Force (BCHETF) leveraged data-driven insights to develop targeted interventions that promote BC prevention and early detection among B/AA women. By synthesizing data, we mapped census tracts with high B/AA population density to identify targeted areas to focus screening and outreach efforts with an evidence-based intervention (EBI). The BCHETF and researchers are also engaged in ongoing projects to explore patient-level experiences of BC care among B/AA women through focus groups and address provider-level gaps in the delivery of BC risk assessment and screening with telementoring and practice facilitation. Targeting efforts through data visualization has been helpful, but limitations remain. Here, we describe the BCHETFs concerted and ongoing efforts to address BC health disparities among B/AA women, facilitate improvements in BC screening access and outcomes, and promote health equity for all.