Cancer diagnoses and deaths are on the decline in Appalachia, yet the region continues to face significantly higher rates compared to other parts of the United States. A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons reveals that from 2017 to 2021, Appalachian residents were 5.6% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 12.8% more likely to die from the disease than those living elsewhere in the country.
The research, led by Todd Burus and Dr. B. Mark Evers from the University of Kentucky’s Markey Cancer Center, highlights the complex nature of these disparities. Central Appalachia, encompassing parts of eastern Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia, experiences the highest cancer incidence and mortality rates within the region.
Despite improvements in screening rates, Appalachia still sees higher death rates from cancers that can be detected early through routine screening, such as breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers. Of particular concern are the dramatic increases in liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancers, rising at nearly twice the rate of non-Appalachian regions.
The study emphasizes that these disparities stem from various factors, including limited access to care in rural areas, historical occupational hazards, higher poverty rates, and higher prevalence of obesity and smoking. However, the researchers also note positive trends, such as declining lung cancer death rates, which demonstrate the potential impact of targeted public health initiatives.
Dr. Evers stresses the importance of understanding regional differences within Appalachia to better focus screening techniques and prevention strategies. The study’s county-level analysis provides valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to reduce these persistent health disparities and improve cancer care across the Appalachian region.
See: “Cancer Diagnoses and Deaths are Declining in Appalachia but Remain Significantly Higher Compared to Other US Regions” (February 6, 2025)
