Community Engaged Perspectives on Oropharyngeal Cancer Risk in an Underserved Miami Neighborhood: A Qualitative Study of Barriers and Solutions

Despite the preventable nature of oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OOPSCC) through risk factor avoidance, disparities persist regarding OOPSCC survival in medically underserved communities. This qualitative study aims to engage community stakeholders from an underserved neighborhood in Miami, FL to identify key problems and solutions related to high-risk behaviors in OOPSCC. Twelve participants, selected based on community involvement and residence around the studied neighborhood, participated in two focus groups with six participants each. Transcriptions of the 60-minute sessions were analyzed using directed qualitative content analysis (DQICA) to identify themes. Notable excerpts from the transcriptions were used to report data and support overarching themes. 12 participants of average age 45.6 years were interviewed. The majority were female (75.0%), had 0-1 years community involvement (83.3%), were Black or African American (100%), and were non-Hispanic (83.3%). DQICA revealed five key problems contributing to high-risk behaviors for OOPSCC: historic social norms, mistrust of the healthcare system, lack of support systems, limited education, and availability of drugs and alcohol. Analysis identified five key solutions including continuity of care, community engagement and education, incentives, long-term relationships, and improved health accessibility. This study highlights the influence of social determinants on OOPSCC risk in this medically underserved community of Miami, FL. Through a community-engaged approach, this study uncovers underlying problems and potential solutions to reduce high-risk behaviors contributing to OOPSCC. This emphasizes the need for stakeholder input, community-specific research and service efforts, and longitudinal practices in improving the treatment within underserved communities. Level of Evidence : level 4