Hiding in plain sight: Cooperative Extension as an underutilized approach to improving cancer survivorship outcomes in underserved populations.

Abstract

Explore the potential utility of a Cooperative Extension-specific program to support post-active treatment cancer survivors. A user-centered study was conducted to identify barriers to and facilitators of the implementation of a program for adult cancer survivors living post primary cancer treatment ("cancer survivors") via Cooperative Extension("Extension"), including interviews analyzed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Participants included Cooperative Extension Educators and adult cancer survivors in Oklahoma who completed data collection from July 2023 to September 2023. N = 20 participants were enrolled. Cancer survivors indicated poor familiarity with Extension, or a primary association with agriculture. Some voiced surprise Extension was not already providing cancer-related programming. Many expressed poor support in their communities due to issues secondary to rurality, often relying on non-cancer programs. Educators voiced a strong capability to deliver cancer-related programming if intentionally designed, with many already providing education on relevant topics (e.g., finances, nutrition, physical activity). A salient barrier was poor connectivity with the healthcare system. There is an immense need for improved survivorship care in underserved communities due to poor social connectedness, support structures, and poor mental health. Cooperative Extension is well-poised to deliver cancer survivorship-specific programming. Cooperative Extension provides an extensive network of professionals who can provide support to cancer survivors, particularly those post-active treatment.