272892 Barriers to Cancer Screening for Individuals with Disabilities: A Literature Review

Wednesday, October 31, 2012 : 11:15 AM - 11:30 AM

Michael Moorhouse, PhD, CRC , Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, University of Florida, Gainesville
Jamie Pomeranz, PhD, CRC, CLCP , Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Julie Merten, MSH, MCHES , Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Willliam Parker Hinson, MPH , Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
     
Routine preventive screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer are recommended for adults to identify and treat cancer with detection offering the best chances for treatment and survival. Over 50 million Americans currently have some form of disability and most people will experience a disability during their life. Studies have shown that people with disabilities are underinsured, have less access to healthcare, and are more likely to engage in risky health behavior. Existing research on preventive cancer screenings among the disabled is scarce with current studies suggesting that those with intellectual and physical disabilities are not being screened for cancer as often as the able-bodied population. Barriers include cost, access, healthcare provider discomfort, and physical and cognitive restraints. Potential interventions to improve routine preventative cancer screenings should include specialized healthcare provider training, community interventions and emphasis on the value of health promotion specific to the healthcare needs of people with disabilities.

Learning Areas:
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Provision of health care to the public
Public health or related research
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
1. Discuss existing literature on barriers for people with disabilities to receive routine breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screenings. 2. Discuss potential methods to improve routine cancer screening adherence among people with disabilities.

Keywords: Cancer Screening, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I hold a masters degree in rehabilitation counseling and since 2002 I have been certified as a rehabilitation counselor. As a rehabilitaiton counselor, I have worked with and advocated for people with disabilities for over 10 years. As such, I strive to improve access to care and the health of people with disabilities.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 5151.0: Health promotion for persons with all abilities (Organized jointly with Disabilities)