Understanding the Challenges of Reducing Cancer in Appalachia

The Appalachian region of the United States has long been recognized for its poor economic and social indicators. Only during the past decade have multi-state data become more accessible to describe the regions’ poor health status and resulting outcomes. A recent community-based participatory study engaged rural Appalachians to describe “what makes Appalachia different?” from other geographic areas and cultural groups in the United States and identify those characteristics that influence the region’s health. This article summarizes the community interpretation of these findings.