New report shows poverty increases risk of dying from cancer

Poverty continues to be an important risk factor in cancer diagnosis, treatment and survival, according to a report recently released by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Cancer and Poverty: Colorado 2001-2012, shows that Coloradans living in high poverty areas of the state were more likely to be diagnosed with advanced cancer. People living in poor areas of the state were also more likely to die of their cancer within the first five years after diagnosis, regardless of the stage at which they were diagnosed. 

Among other things, health insurance coverage was a key factor affecting stage at diagnosis, particularly for those younger than 65. 

To download the report, go to Cancer and Poverty: Colorado 2001-12.

To learn more, go to the Colorado Central Cancer Registry or contact John Arend at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment