Promoting Cancer Health Equity: A Qualitative Study of Mentee and Mentor Perspectives of a Training Program for Underrepresented Scholars in Cancer Health Disparities

Authors

Anastasia Rogova
Isabel Martinez Leal
Maggie Britton
Shine Chang
Kamisha H Escoto
Kayce D Solari Williams
Crystal Roberson
Lorna H McNeill
Lorraine R Reitzel

Publication Date

6-19-2022

Journal

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Abstract

Racial and ethnic minorities, and women, experience stark disparities in cancer risk behaviors and mortality rates, yet often remain underrepresented in scientific research positions. We conducted an exploratory, qualitative study to examine the value of mentored research experience as part of an NCI-funded research training program designed to increase the representation of minority and women scientists in cancer disparities research. Using individual interviews, we explored 16 mentees' and 7 mentors' program experiences and perspectives to identify the most effective strategies to build strong mentoring relationships that could ultimately contribute to increased representation in health disparities research. Two expert analysts employed thematic analysis and constant comparison to code, categorize, and summarize the data into themes. Mentees and mentors shared five themes identifying contributions to program success: conditions for building successful mentoring relationships; role of mentor/mentee similarities or differences and their impact on effective collaboration; program elements that fostered developing knowledge, skills, and confidence; program supportive opportunities; and challenges and benefits of in-person vs. virtual program delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings contribute to improving the quality of training programs for historically excluded trainees to advance their cancer disparities research careers and offer a successful model that can guide similar programs.

Keywords

COVID-19, Female, Health Equity, Humans, Mentors, Neoplasms, Pandemics, Program Evaluation

DOI

10.3390/ijerph19127512

PMID

35742763

PMCID

PMC9223599

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

6-19-2022

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Published Open-Access

yes