Cancer on the Margins

This book explores the experiences of marginalized women with breast cancer, highlighting disparities in care and the importance of participatory research.

The findings of the Ontario Breast Cancer Community Research Initiative are presented in Cancer on the Margins, an essential resource that investigates the experiences of women with breast cancer from marginalized and underrepresented groups. This initiative sheds light on the psychosocial needs of these women, examining the disparities in treatment, care, and survivorship among various demographics, including Aboriginal women, women of color, francophone women, lesbians, young women, those from lower-income backgrounds, and women residing in rural areas.

Structured as a comprehensive guide for similar research endeavors, Cancer on the Margins offers a detailed 'start to finish' format that navigates the complexities of conducting such research. It begins with the study design and culminates in the dissemination of results. The authors tackle the challenges of representing these women's voices, balancing description with interpretation, and ensuring that qualitative findings contribute positively to the lives of participants. With a strong emphasis on social justice, this volume highlights how participatory research can foster social change and outlines effective strategies to ensure that research findings reach and benefit the communities they aim to serve.

This vital work bridges the gap between diverse audiences, making it an important read for health professionals, policymakers, new researchers, experienced investigators, and the general public. The insights provided in Cancer on the Margins are crucial for understanding the multifaceted experiences of women facing breast cancer in various contexts.