Abstract B18: Attitudes, perceptions, and strategies toward increasing cancer screening, treatment, and participation in research among Latinos

Background: Nationally, cancer disparities negatively impact minority communities at alarming rates. Minorities have low rates of cancer screenings compared to white counterparts, resulting in Latinos having poor cancer outcomes in lung, colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Previous studies have examined race/ethnic cancer disparities, yet improved health outcomes are lagging in the Latino community. We assessed perceptions and recommendations to improving cancer screenings, treatment, research participation, and survivorship within the Latino community as part of the codevelopment of a health-equity agenda around cancer services and research at the Duke Cancer Institute. Methods: We conducted five 90-minute focus groups reaching a total of 51 members of the Latino community, including clergy, community members, survivors, caregivers, and local leaders, to identify the barriers and facilitators to engaging the Latino community in cancer services and research. Data were recorded and analyzed using Atlas Ti Software. Results: Barriers to cancer screenings and treatment included affordability of care, lack of health insurance or other financial resources, lack of knowing when to seek screenings, poor patient provider communication, treatment and options seem to be different based on insurance and/or immigration status, language barriers, machismo, stigma and fear of a cancer diagnosis, long wait times, and excessive and unclear paperwork when seeking cancer screening and treatment services. Participation in clinical trials and research was considered limited due to lack of outreach, education, and full engagement with the Latino community around research. Key strategies include engaging families and communities to increase community's knowledge and access to prevention, screenings, and available treatment options, including clinical trials. Develop partnerships with Latino faith-based and serving organizations to extend services and education about cancer screenings and research. Have services more accessible and culturally responsive to promote screening and timely follow-up, and incorporate staff and lay community leaders to promote awareness and participation in research. Conclusion: Developing sustainable and equitable collaborations and partnerships between the cancer center and the Latino community to increase access to education, screening, treatment, and research is critical to addressing longstanding cancer disparities. There are key community-derive