The Oncology Insights Podcast - Dr. Wade Swenson: Rural Cancer Gap | Ep. 10

In this episode of The Oncology Insights Podcast, Dr. Wade Swenson, medical oncologist at Lakewood Health System and founder of the Rural Cancer Institute, joins Dr. Abbie Begnaud to discuss the challenges of delivering cancer care in underserved rural communities. He explores the rural cancer gap, social determinants of health, screening barriers, and the role of policy and workforce development. Dr. Swenson also highlights innovative models for decentralizing care while maintaining quality standards. Listen now on all major platforms!

Read the full research articles:

• Kava, Christine M., et al. "Differences in lung cancer death rates by rural vs. urban status in comparison to all-cancer death rates—United States, 1999–2020." Cancer epidemiology 95 (2025): 102763.
• Walker, Margaret R., et al. "Challenges and Opportunities for Rural Multidisciplinary Lung Cancer Care." Journal of the American College of Radiology 22.12 (2025): 1609-1617.

What you’ll learn: 

• Rural cancer disparities
• Social determinants impact
• Screening challenges trust
• Decentralized care models
• Policy advocacy role

Meet the guest:

Dr. Wade Swenson is a medical oncologist specializing in rural cancer care delivery and founder of the Rural Cancer Institute. He serves at Lakewood Health System and holds academic roles at TCU and the University of North Dakota. His work focuses on reducing disparities, improving access, and advancing oncology workforce development in underserved regions. 

Learn more from Dr. Wade Swenson on The Oncology Insights Podcast, available on all major platforms.
Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

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