Bringing advanced cancer research and treatment to our region
The latest advancements in cancer studies are available close to home
What is a clinical trial or cancer study?
Less than 10% of adult cancer patients participate in cancer clinical trials in the United States. These low numbers are worse for underserved patients in impoverished areas (suburban and rural) further perpetuating a major health disparity. By expanding the number of cancer studies and treatment locations available in the Gulf South region, the Gulf South Clinical Trials Network is working to improve the quality of patient care and reduce the rate of cancer deaths. The goal of the Gulf South Clinical Trials Network is to give everyone in our region access to the best possible cancer care, no matter where they live or what kind of cancer they have.
A clinical trial or research study is a way for physicians and scientists to apply the latest technology to how they care for a disease. Often, studies or trials can be an option for patients when other treatments haven’t worked. Studies also collect important information that can benefit patients with similar diseases in the future. You can click here for more information and to search for a clinical trial near you.
Improving access to care
By expanding the number of cancer studies and treatment locations available in the Gulf South region, our network is working to improve the quality of patient care and reduce the rate of cancer deaths. Some of the cancer inequalities in our region our highlighted below.
PROSTATE CANCER
128%
Higher mortality rate in African American men than Caucasian men
LUNG CANCER
58%
Higher incidence in African American men than Caucasian men
CERVICAL CANCER
80%
Higher late state diagnoses African American women
BREAST CANCER
28%
Higher incidence in African American women than in Caucasian women
What is a health care disparity?
Across the country, not everyone has the same opportunities in achieving their best possible health. Health disparities – which are preventable health differences among certain groups of people – persist from coast to coast, including right here in the Gulf South region.
Two zip codes – two health outcomes
Your family health history, age, and health status – many factors predict your likelihood of developing and dying from cancer. But did you know that your zip code can determine health outcomes just as much as your genetic code?
The Gulf South Clinical Trials Network is committed to reducing health disparities and cancer deaths related to where you live by providing convenient access to clinical trials and cancer treatment in the Gulf South Region.
