A new study finds that people in areas with fewer resources are less likely to receive cancer screenings at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). About one in 11 Americans gets care at these centers, which offer medical treatment, prevention services and help with housing, food and transport.
Researchers used national 2022 data covering more than 1,300 FQHCs in all 50 states and Washington, DC. The study found big gaps in screening: colorectal screening was about 15 percentage points lower in the most underserved areas, breast screening about 11 points lower, and cervical screening about 8 points lower. Researchers note practical barriers like low health literacy and not being able to take time off work.
Difficult words
- resource — Things people need like money, food, servicesresources
- screening — Medical tests to find disease earlyscreenings
- underserved — Areas with few services or support
- barrier — Something that makes access or action difficultbarriers
- health literacy — Ability to understand health information and care
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What problems in your area could make health care hard to reach?
- Which services from a health center would help you or your family?
- How could a workplace help people take time off for health screenings?
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