Enhancing life after cancer in diverse communities

Background: Although large numbers of cancer survivors exist in every community, including minority communities, there is a significant gap in knowledge about best practices for these patients. Methods: The Community Networks Program, funded by the National Cancer Institute Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities, has developed and tested unique services for these communities. These programs have used community-based participatory research techniques under a framework of diffusion of innovation and communications theory. Results: This article describes some specifically tailored interventions that may be useful to a wide range of providers working with the underserved. Conclusions: Enhancing life after cancer can be achieved in underserved communities by supplementing local resources. Cancer 2012.