14.11.2024 - A new report from the Integraal Kankercentrum Nederland (IKNL) has highlighted stark socioeconomic disparities in cancer outcomes across the Netherlands. The findings underscore that individuals with lower incomes face not only a shorter average lifespan but also a higher risk of cancer-related mortality and reduced quality of life during and after treatment. This comprehensive report, the third in a series titled Kanker in Nederland: sociaaleconomische verschillen, provides a detailed examination of the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and cancer survival, progression, and aftercare.
Unequal cancer survival rates
According to the report, the five-year survival rate for cancer patients from lower-income groups is, on average, 10% lower than for those in higher-income brackets. This gap is even more pronounced for men, with a 12% difference, compared to a 7% difference among women. While survival disparities lessen over time, they remain significant for certain cancers, such as melanoma. The study also found that patients with lower incomes frequently report a poorer quality of life, struggling with fatigue, pain, and emotional challenges.
Lifestyle factors and cancer risk: spotlight on alcohol use
The report also emphasizes the role of lifestyle factors—including smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity—on cancer risk and recovery. A noteworthy finding is the higher prevalence of alcohol consumption among individuals from higher socioeconomic backgrounds, while those in lower income groups are more likely to smoke and less likely to meet recommended physical activity levels. Alcohol use, particularly prevalent among higher-educated individuals, is a known risk factor for certain types of cancer, complicating treatment outcomes and survival chances.
IKNL underscores the impact of social and environmental factors on lifestyle choices. The presence of smoking and drinking behaviors within one’s social circle, along with the physical characteristics of one's neighborhood, can make it challenging for individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. For example, a person living in an area with high traffic and minimal green spaces may find it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.
SES influences in cancer care and aftercare
Beyond lifestyle habits, the report finds that individuals from higher SES backgrounds are more likely to receive forms of aftercare, such as physiotherapy, while those from lower-income groups are more likely to utilize social work services. Notably, practical barriers, including limited health literacy and longer travel distances for specialized care, may hinder access to aftercare for lower-income patients.
A call for inclusive cancer care
In response to these findings, IKNL advocates for a collaborative approach to reduce health inequalities. They encourage healthcare providers to prioritize patient-centered care, especially for disadvantaged groups, to ensure equal access to high-quality cancer care. The report calls attention to the broader implications for public health policy, recommending an integrated approach to address both individual and environmental factors that contribute to these health disparities.
This report provides a critical overview of how SES influences not only cancer outcomes but also lifestyle choices that may affect long-term health, including alcohol use. As the link between alcohol and cancer becomes clearer, understanding and addressing these socioeconomic dynamics will be essential in fostering a more equitable healthcare system.
Source: IKNL
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