Cancer survival is lower in rural areas

PEOPLE in rural areas are less likely to survive cancer than those who live in cities, a study found.

Scots researchers discovered a “clear survival disadvantage” for rural dwellers.

In a new global review of 39 studies, experts found that those living in the countryside were five per cent less likely to BY LUCINDA CAMERON survive cancer than their metropolitan counterparts.

Leaders of the Aberdeen University study suggest transport infrastructure and distance from health facilities are key factors.

With most services in developed countries centralised in urban areas, it can be more timecities, consuming and expensive for rural people to travel for treatment, which may act as a deterrent and lead to people being less likely to seek initial treatment or more likely to miss appointments.

Researchers said rural patients may also delay seeking help until their symptoms seem more serious than those living in due to the nature of their work or family commitments.

Lead investigator Professor Peter Murchie said: “A previous study showed the inequality faced by rural cancer dwellers in north-east Scotland. We wanted to see if this was replicated in other parts of the world.

“The statistic – that if you have cancer and live rurally anywhere in the world you are five per cent less likely to survive it – is quite stark.

“The task now is to analyse this and find what can be done to close this inequality gap. With more research, it should be possible to identify other factors that contribute to this divide.”