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SUMMARY
Regional data indicates that African Americans in Appalachia consistently have higher cancer mortality rates than whites in the region and higher than national African American rates. This study used a storytelling technique, story circles, to discover and explore themes of personal and community experiences with the “journey of cancer” and cancer care. Volunteer members of African American churches in Northeast Tennessee participated. Qualitative research techniques are used to analyze responses to questions and summarize differences in the journey and cancer care perceived by African Americans.
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FINDINGS
17.1 African-American mortality rates greatly exceed white rates locally, statewide, and nationally.
17.2 Mortality rates for diabetes are locally 25-30% higher than the state and national rates for African- Americans.
17.3 African-American women under 65 have the greatest mortality rate from diabetes.
17.4 Premature mortality rates from diabetes are disturbingly higher on a local level.
17.5 African-Americans perceive that they receive different healthcare than Caucasians in the area.
17.6 African-Americans feel that they do not receive correct information about cancer.
17.7 Participants thought that African-American do not seek healthcare when they should.
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