Morehead State University

Dietary Determinants and Their Impact on Cancer Development in Appalachia

Grade Level at Time of Presentation

Junior

Major

Legal Studies, Sociology & Social Justice

Institution 24-25

Morehead State University

KY House District #

89

KY Senate District #

34

Department

Sociology, Social Work & Criminology Department

Abstract

This research examines the complex forces and health behaviors that affect diet and might cause disproportionately high rates of gastrointestinal cancer in Appalachian Eastern Kentucky. Gastrointestinal cancers and nutrition are closely linked, and certain eating habits increase the risk of these diseases. This pattern is even more complex in Appalachia, where environmental and social challenges deeply shape how people eat and live. These factors are often beyond individuals’ control and significantly impact the well-being of entire communities. This study explores these connections to explain why Appalachian communities, particularly in Eastern Kentucky, have higher incidence rates of gastrointestinal cancers. Food deserts are a key focus of this research, where access to fresh, healthy food is severely limited. Economic hardship is also considered as it forces families to prioritize cost over nutrition. When faced with tough decisions at the grocery store, many opt for what will stretch their dollars furthest, even at the expense of their health.

Cultural and educational factors create an even more complicate problem. In a region where traditions run deep, comfort foods are not just meals, but an essential part of community and heritage. These foods often contribute to unhealthy dietary patterns. Moreover, limited educational opportunities can leave individuals less aware of how their food choices affect their health, which contributes to a cycle that is difficult to break.

The goal of this research is to help alleviate the problem of high rates of gastrointestinal cancers in Eastern Kentucky by building a more complete understanding of the complex forces and health behaviors that affect diet and ultimately may contribute to adverse health outcomes.

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Dietary Determinants and Their Impact on Cancer Development in Appalachia

This research examines the complex forces and health behaviors that affect diet and might cause disproportionately high rates of gastrointestinal cancer in Appalachian Eastern Kentucky. Gastrointestinal cancers and nutrition are closely linked, and certain eating habits increase the risk of these diseases. This pattern is even more complex in Appalachia, where environmental and social challenges deeply shape how people eat and live. These factors are often beyond individuals’ control and significantly impact the well-being of entire communities. This study explores these connections to explain why Appalachian communities, particularly in Eastern Kentucky, have higher incidence rates of gastrointestinal cancers. Food deserts are a key focus of this research, where access to fresh, healthy food is severely limited. Economic hardship is also considered as it forces families to prioritize cost over nutrition. When faced with tough decisions at the grocery store, many opt for what will stretch their dollars furthest, even at the expense of their health.

Cultural and educational factors create an even more complicate problem. In a region where traditions run deep, comfort foods are not just meals, but an essential part of community and heritage. These foods often contribute to unhealthy dietary patterns. Moreover, limited educational opportunities can leave individuals less aware of how their food choices affect their health, which contributes to a cycle that is difficult to break.

The goal of this research is to help alleviate the problem of high rates of gastrointestinal cancers in Eastern Kentucky by building a more complete understanding of the complex forces and health behaviors that affect diet and ultimately may contribute to adverse health outcomes.