LAS VEGAS (AP) — A study shows Nevadans are more likely than residents of neighboring states to contract and die of cancer.
Researchers say Nevada suffers from a lack of screening and less specialized expertise, which forces nearly 10 percent of cancer patients to be diagnosed or treated outside of the state.
The report, released by researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and Nevada State Health Division, also found "alarming disparities" in the level and quality of care between northern and southern Nevada.
Survival rates for breast cancer in northern Nevada are about 82 percent after four years, which is roughly the national average. In southern Nevada, survival rates are nearly 10 percentage points lower.
The report features a comprehensive analysis of all cancer cases in Nevada from 2006 to 2008.
