Explore the role of equity, diversity, and inclusion in reshaping cancer care for a more inclusive care in this EU-CAYAS-NET webinar.

Despite advances in cancer care, disparities in access and quality continue to disadvantage marginalized groups. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in healthcare are critical to addressing these inequities and ensuring compassionate, inclusive care for all survivors. Our webinar explored these pressing issues, focusing on barriers to inclusivity, their impact on survivors, and actionable solutions.

The State of EDI in Cancer Care

EDI seeks to create culturally competent healthcare systems that address the needs of diverse populations. Yet, many young cancer survivors report exclusion and bias during their care.

A recent survey revealed that 41% of young patients feel healthcare resources are not inclusive, and 16% have experienced discriminatory language. Factors such as socioeconomic status, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and cultural barriers further amplify these challenges. Many survivors face stigma, inadequate support, and a lack of representation in healthcare leadership, perpetuating gaps in care.

Barriers to Inclusive Care

Systemic obstacles continue to hinder equitable care, including:

  • Cultural norms: Taboos around mental health and sexuality discourage open discussions.
  • Lack of training: Providers are often unprepared to address the unique needs of diverse patients.
  • Leadership gaps: Healthcare decision-makers often fail to reflect the diversity of the populations they serve.

These barriers disproportionately affect underrepresented groups, such as LGBTQ+ survivors, who often encounter judgment or ignorance about their healthcare needs, further isolating them.

Pathways to More Inclusive Care

1. Training and Education

Embedding EDI into healthcare training is essential. Programs must equip providers with cultural competence, communication skills, and strategies to deliver patient-centered care. Collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches involving doctors, nurses, and social workers can foster more inclusive practices. Our initiative focuses on improving communication, supporting neurodiverse and linguistically diverse patients, and promoting inclusivity across care settings.

2. Representation and Collaboration

Healthcare leadership must reflect patient diversity. Co-creating resources with survivors and minority groups can improve accessibility and trust while addressing specific needs.

3. Inclusive Policies

Policymakers must prioritize EDI by introducing cultural competence toolkits, gathering data on healthcare disparities, and advocating for reforms that ensure equitable care for all survivors.

EDI is essential to building a compassionate and inclusive healthcare system. By addressing disparities, fostering cultural competence, and implementing inclusive policies, we can create a future where every survivor feels respected and supported.

Watch the full webinar to learn more and join the movement toward equitable cancer care: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xy_m7zl5W6E