Social Connections and Cancer Survivorship

Some medically underserved populations have low rates of cancer mortality despite experiencing disparities in stage of cancer diagnosis, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access. Social connection fostered by cultural factors is theorized to contribute to this health advantage. Social connection is a robust predictor of numerous positive health outcomes, including improved cancer survival. However, research is needed to examine the potential mechanisms through which social connection might influence cancer survival in medically underserved populations.

In this webinar, speakers presented findings and discussed methodologies for examining the role of social connection in cancer survivorship, including in medically underserved populations: Hispanic individuals diagnosed with lung cancer and Hispanic, Asian, and Black individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. The presentations highlighted how basic biobehavioral and psychological research can be used to discover mechanisms through which social resources can promote resilience and be leveraged in interventions to improve cancer control outcomes among medically underserved populations.

This webinar is part of the BRP Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Webinar Series, which aims to highlight research conducted or funded by NCI’s BRP focused on issues related to health disparities and health equity. For more information, please contact Tanya Agurs-Collins or Maria Roditis.