Social determinants of health and cancer care: An ASCO policy statement

As the national organization representing nearly 50,000 physicians and other health care professionals specializing in cancer treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and research, ASCO supports effective policies and practices targeting SDOH that promote, sustain, and advance health equity. Since 2003, ASCO has had a formal body of volunteers composed of cancer health disparities and health equity experts who have focused on improving our understanding, advancing our scientific knowledge, and developing solutions to eliminate disparities in cancer. ASCO members are also dedicated to conducting research that leads to improved patient outcomes and equitable care delivery, ensuring that evidence-based practices for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer are available to their patients and communities. Consistent with ASCO's commitment to cancer health equity, ASCO assembled the SDOH Task Force in 2021 with the charge of articulating recommendations for how to address SDOH in cancer care.