Disparities in Cancer Care Access and Survival for People with Disabilities in South Korea - A Scoping Review

Overview This research project is a scoping review designed to systematically map the existing evidence regarding disparities in the cancer care continuum for people with disabilities in South Korea. While international research suggests that people with disabilities face significant health inequities, this review focuses specifically on the South Korean context to identify unique structural, interpersonal, and systemic barriers. Purpose The primary objective is to identify and synthesize evidence on disparities between people with and without disabilities across three key domains: 1. Cancer Care Access: Investigating prevention (screening, HPV vaccination), diagnosis (timeliness, stage at diagnosis), and treatment (receipt and intensity of care). 2. Survival Outcomes: Examining overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and mortality rates. 3. Supportive Care: Assessing access to hospice and palliative care services. Methodology Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we will conduct a systematic search across international and domestic databases: 1. International Databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Web of Science. 2. Korean Databases: To ensure local comprehensive coverage, we will search KoreaMed, KMbase, RISS (Research Information Sharing Service), and KISS (Koreanstudies Information Service System). 3. Selection Process: A dual-reviewer screening process will be utilized to include peer-reviewed, English or Korean language studies involving adults with disabilities in South Korea. Expected Outcomes The findings will be presented in narrative and tabular formats. The results are expected to: 1. Identify specific under-studied disability groups or cancers within South Korea. 2. Highlight systemic gaps leading to delayed diagnoses or lower screening rates. 3. Provide an evidence base for equity-focused policies to improve cancer care for the disabled population.