We seek to identify and implement best practices in addressing disparities in lung cancer along the continuum of care for all populations and take action with like-minded community leaders based on the belief that action with impact equals change and hope. We are informed by data on disparities across the cancer continuum of care for different populations so that we know where to take action.
Read the 2023 Consensus Statement on Health Equity
LUNGevity’s health equity programs work to ensure all communities diagnosed or at risk for lung cancer have the same opportunities for best-case outcomes and access to trusted resources, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, age, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.
These programs bring together a diverse group of stakeholders to collaboratively address disparities in the lung cancer space by developing successful models of community and patient engagement that will have impact and sustainability for all lung cancer populations. This includes legislators at the state and federal level (eg, Black and Latinx Caucuses), who we work with to address issues relevant to access to quality lung cancer care throughout the care continuum for vulnerable communities.
A key component of our approach is building communities of hope and action through trusted partnerships with cancer center outreach leaders and community-based organizations, especially in geographic locations where there is a high prevalence of lung cancer. We identify areas of need and best practices to inform program development.; Community leader engagement drives trust, engagement, and access to care for racial and ethnic minority groups and their care partners. Building trust among cancer patients, their families, and their providers is essential for optimal outcomes, especially in view of the complexity of treatment and the often-chronic nature of the disease. Vulnerable communities with connections to trusted stakeholders receive better information, hope, and awareness for optimal lung cancer care.
Our strategy also includes developing education plans and awareness programs, including designing and delivering patient education materials to cancer center outreach leaders and community-based organizations to better reach vulnerable populations. We seek to impact the problem of communicating complex information through an approach that incorporates patient insights and applies of national standards for health literacy, cultural competency, numeracy, and linguistically appropriate materials. This will result in trusted and patient-friendly resources for patients and their caregivers in where the risk of lung cancer is high.
No one should be disadvantaged in their fight against cancer. LUNGevity is committed to breaking down barriers to optimal care and ensuring quality of life and survivorship for all people diagnosed with lung cancer.