A NEW study has highlighted the significant role that transportation insecurity plays in breast cancer screening adherence, while also exploring the impact of social support on cancer prevention. The findings, drawn from a cohort of over 25,000 U.S. adults, suggest that individuals who experience difficulties accessing transportation are less likely to undergo recommended mammograms.
Researchers analysed data from the 2018 National Health Interview Survey to assess the association between transportation insecurity, social support, and adherence to colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer screenings. Among the study population, 3% of respondents reported delaying medical care due to transportation issues. The results showed that individuals facing transportation insecurity were 41% less likely to adhere to breast cancer screening guidelines compared to those without such barriers. However, no significant link was found between transportation challenges and adherence to colorectal or cervical cancer screenings.
Conversely, the study found that higher levels of social support positively influenced adherence to colorectal and breast cancer screenings, suggesting that a strong support network may help patients navigate logistical hurdles. Despite this, researchers did not find an interactive effect between transportation insecurity and social support, indicating that while both factors independently affect screening rates, social support alone may not fully mitigate transportation barriers.
These findings underscore the need for healthcare providers to screen for transportation challenges at the time of mammography referral and connect patients with available medical transportation programs. Addressing transportation insecurity could play a crucial role in improving cancer screening adherence and reducing preventable cancer-related deaths.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Pohl AL et al. Transportation Insecurity, Social Support, and Adherence to Cancer Screening. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(1):e2457336.
