REDUCING MORTALITY RATES FROM LUNG CANCER IN RURAL PARTS OF SOUTHERN ARKANSAS
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Authors
Bratton, Jessica
Department
Healthcare Administration
Issue Date
2025
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Lungs--Cancer--Diagnosis::Lungs--Cancer--Mortality::Lungs--Cancer--Prevention::Lungs--Cancer--Risk factors--United States::Lungs--Cancer--Treatment.::Cancer--Early detection--United States.::Medically underserved areas--United States.::Rural hospitals--United States.::Rural health services.::Healthcare disparities--United States.::Arkansas.
Alternative Title
Abstract
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the
United States, with rural populations experiencing disproportionately high death
rates due to a combination of socioeconomic, geographic, and healthcare access
barriers. This paper explores the critical disparities in early detection and treatment
of lung cancer in rural Arkansas, where limited access to screening programs, high
smoking prevalence, and socioeconomic challenges significantly impact survival
outcomes. Through a mixed-methods approach—utilizing national data, peer reviewed literature, and expert interviews—this research identifies key factors
contributing to late-stage diagnoses and elevated mortality rates in rural areas. The
study also examines the role of healthcare deserts, cultural barriers, and lack of
healthcare literacy in screening participation. Findings support the hypothesis that
rural communities face greater challenges leading to worse outcomes, and
emphasize the need for targeted interventions, such as mobile screening units,
education initiatives, and community-based engagement strategies. Healthcare
administrators play a pivotal role in addressing these disparities through program
implementation, resource allocation, and policy advocacy. This research aims to
inform future public health strategies and promote equitable cancer care for
underserved rural populations.
Description
Spring 2025 Graduate Project/Thesis/Capstone in Healthcare Administration. Student ID redacted.
Citation
Publisher
License
A copyright review process in June 2025 has determined that this item is in copyright, held by the author, Jessica Bratton. The written permission of the copyright holder is required for distribution, reproduction, or other use that extends beyond what is authorized by fair use and other statutory exemptions. Responsibility for making an independent legal assessment of an item and securing any necessary permissions rests with person(s) desiring to use the item. http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-EDU/1.0/