Understanding and addressing issues of cancer disparities
Recent events have underscored underlying disparities in our social structure and the impact of these disparities on health outcomes, including those of cancer.
The catchment area of the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center includes the state of Indiana with rural, Black, and Hispanic populations, providing a unique environment for understanding and addressing issues of cancer disparities.
In addition to integrating health disparities throughout the curriculum, the cancer center provides specialized training to each pre- and postdoctoral trainee:
- Dedicated course on health disparities in communities. Students learn to use social and behavioral science to inform research targeting underserved populations.
- Engagement of IU faculty mentors with expertise in health disparities.
- Inclusion of diverse populations in grant proposals written by trainees.
- Individualized community outreach experience targeting underserved populations. Trainees select an experience consistent with their research area.
- Meeting with a nationally acclaimed diversity scholar each year.
