#54 On the Road to Reducing Cancer Mortality in Oklahoma

#54 On the Road to Reducing Cancer Mortality in Oklahoma

From The TSET Better Health Podcast by thetsetbetterhealthpodcast

October 2, 2025 · 43 min · Episode 54

About this episode

The episode discusses efforts to reduce cancer mortality in Oklahoma through early detection and innovative resources.

Oklahoma has the fourth-highest age-adjusted mortality rate for all cancers in the nation, despite ranking much lower in overall cancer incidence. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, but lack of information and barriers to accessing cancer screening often delay detection until the cancer reaches an advanced stage. Research and innovative resources -- including a lung screening mobile unit that will travel the state -- are underway to address and narrow cancer disparities in Oklahoma. Dr. Mark Doescher of the OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center shares details on the mobile unit and how it can impact health in rural communities, Dr. Darla Kendzor of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center talks about four new research projects that aim to reduce cancer among Native and African Americans and tobacco use, and Dr. Kathryn Klump of OU Health share routine ways for everyone to reduce their cancer risks.

People in this episode

Guests: Dr. Mark Doescher, Dr. Darla Kendzor, Dr. Kathryn Klump

Topics covered

  • cancer mortality
  • early detection
  • health disparities
  • rural health
  • tobacco use
  • research projects

Keywords

  • cancer
  • mortality rate
  • screening
  • health disparities
  • Oklahoma
  • research
  • tobacco use

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, TSET Health Promotion Research Center, OU Health

Places: Oklahoma

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