Examining cancer death rates in rural versus urban areas

Understanding rural mortality disparities in cancer: a multi-level approach

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11003257

This study looks at why people with cancer in rural areas of the U.S. may have higher death rates compared to those in cities, and it aims to find out what factors contribute to this difference so that healthcare providers and policymakers can better support rural cancer patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003257 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the differences in cancer mortality rates between rural and urban populations in the United States. It aims to identify the underlying causes of these disparities by analyzing various factors such as socioeconomic status and geographic influences. The study will utilize population-level data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program and link it with multiple databases to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. By doing so, it seeks to inform policymakers and healthcare providers about the specific challenges faced by rural cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancer who reside in rural areas.

Not a fit: Patients living in urban areas or those without a cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healthcare strategies and policies that reduce cancer mortality rates in rural populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant disparities in health outcomes between rural and urban populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.