Public Policy Resources

This factsheet is an excerpt of Cancer Disparities: An American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Chartbook, which examines cancer-specific data on communities disproportionately

Our latest survey finds that cancer patients and survivors living in rural communities are significantly more likely than those in other areas to find it difficult to afford their health care and to accumulate medical debt related to their cancer care. As a result of these additional cost burdens, rural cancer patients and survivors are more likely to skip or delay recommended medical care, skip or delay taking a prescribed medication, fall behind on recommended cancer screenings, and to face food insecurity.

People who live in rural and remote areas have specific challenges in accessing cancer treatments and preventive services. It is estimated that up to 20% of the U.S.

Cancer is a leading cause of death and morbidity in the United States and imposes not only profound health consequences for patients and survivors but also substantial financial hardship.