Since 1970, the U.S. has seen huge advances in survival among children and young adults with cancer. Thirty years ago, few young patients had any hope of being cured.^[1] Despite this great progress, disparities remain in diagnosis, access to treatment, social services and support for young people from differing backgrounds, all of which can impact outcomes.^[1] Socioeconomic status may be even more important than race in determining health for children.^[2] The needs of uninsured and under-insured families also require national attention.

In 2002, the National Cancer Institute reported that “social position, economic status, culture and environment are critical determinants of who is born healthy, who grows up healthy, who sustains health throughout his or her lifespan, who survives disease and who maintains a good quality of life after diagnosis and treatment.” ^[2] According to Dr. Harold Freeman, director of the National Cancer Institute's Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities, “the existence of health disparities poses a challenge to the scientific community and is a moral and ethical dilemma for this nation.” ^[3]

A LION IN THE HOUSE shows the enormous burden that cancer puts on any family. The series also brings to light the particular impact on families headed by single parents, uninsured or underinsured families, and people in communities where resources are scarce and support is difficult to obtain. Cultural and socioeconomic differences can increase the barriers that families face while they grapple with the physical and emotional tornado of childhood cancer. A LION IN THE HOUSE reveals the work lives of dedicated healthcare providers and educators struggling to address the enormous needs of young patients, families and other caregivers.

Outreach for A LION IN THE HOUSE will create opportunities to strengthen local networks, educate the community and increase local capacity to address the greatest needs of patients and families, especially barriers to care for underserved populations. Spearheaded by ITVS, the campaign encourages local organizations and public television stations to work in partnership to develop activities that support goals in key areas, including:

• organizing and building strategic partnerships to promote widespread awareness about cancer health disparities
• training and professional development opportunities for individuals working in healthcare, social services and education
• connecting patients and families to culturally competent support
• helping to sensitize caregivers and policymakers to the special needs of underserved populations

Resources provided by ITVS to support local efforts include: our national partners and regional organizers; a website with relevant links; print materials such as a fact sheet, discussion guide and planning guide; press releases; flyers and a video module focused on cancer health disparities content from A LION IN THE HOUSE. These resources are available for use in local workshops, screenings, forums and other events.

Download Facts and Resources for Health Disparities (Download PDF)

References
1. Childhood Cancer Survivorship: Improving Care and Quality of Life, Institute of Medicine, 2003
2. National Cancer Institute: Reducing Cancer-Related Health Disparities – p. 1-2]
3. Oncology Issues, Sept/Oct 2004, p. 44