Preventive Cancer Screenings and Behaviors Among Rural and Urban Populations

Rural residents experience a higher cancer mortality penalty compared to urban populations, particularly for cancers that are preventable through screening. This gap has widened in recent years, making updated data critical for guiding interventions.

Using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), this study will assess rural-urban differences in adherence to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) screening guidelines. It will also explore behavioral risk factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol use, diet) that may contribute to rural-urban differences in cancer outcomes.

This research will provide actionable insights to reduce cancer mortality disparities through targeted rural health interventions.