Disability and Increased Cancer Risk
Approximately 15% of the world population lives with one or more disabilities, according to World Health Organization data.
Members of this large segment of the world’s population experience health risks that are different from other groups, which includes a higher incidence of cancer.
However, people with physical disabilities (e.g., mobility or sensory limitations) face significant health disadvantages. Studies hint that they may have a higher risk of some cancers, such as cervical cancer.
Certain studies have illustrated an elevated cancer risk in persons with disabilities, e.g., a U.S. study found substantially higher cervical cancer incidence among people with physical disabilities overall (especially mobility limitations) compared to non-disabled peers.
In addition, research from Israel found that people with physical disabilities are at greater risk than their non-disabled peers of being obese and smokers; they have higher prevalence rates of chronic conditions (cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus), which makes it more likely to be diagnosed with cancer.
Unfortunately, due to huge challenges in accessing and using cancer screening services, fewer people are doing so, resulting into late diagnosis with worse outcomes
Thinking about strategies for improving screening rates in individuals with disabilities demands an understanding of the barriers that prevent them from getting screened.
Uncovering such barriers will help in designing interventions that can improve screening uptake and, in turn, effectively reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality.
Source: Chan, D. N., Law, B. M., So, W. K., & Fan, N. (2022). Factors associated with cervical cancer screening utilisation by people with physical disabilities: A systematic review. Health Policy, 126(10), 1039-1050. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthpol.2022.08.003
Tags: Cancer Awareness National Cancer Summit
