Conference Abstracts - Summit on Cancer Health Disparities (SCHD26)
Vol. 6, Issue Supplement 1, 2026 · S1-2
Leveraging Social Media to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities: Oncology101 Education Initiative
Eliana Rohr, MD,Nissim Benizri, MD,Mickaela Di Paolo, B.Sc., MD (c),Max Frija-Gruman, MD,Arielle Sabbah, MD (c),Aaron Samuels, MD (c),Nathaniel Bouganim, MD
Submission received: 2025-12-15 / Accepted: 2026-01-07 / Published: 2026-01-26
Abstract
Background
Cancer remains a leading global cause of mortality, with persistent inequities determining access to early diagnosis and timely treatment. Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face ongoing barriers, including reduced engagement in screening programs, challenges in understanding health information, and limited access to specialized cancer care. Although early detection improves outcomes, participation in recommended cancer screening programs remains low at a population level. Gaps in public understanding of cancer risk and screening guidelines further hinder early diagnosis, particularly for cancers that receive less public attention. Our objective was to establish the first Montreal-led oncology education platform delivering key oncologic insights in a clear, accessible format to reduce health inequities and improve cancer literacy across diverse communities.
Methods
Oncology101 is a resident-led social media health initiative developed by medical oncology and internal medicine residents at McGill University (Montreal, Canada). The platform leverages social media to deliver evidence-based education on cancer prevention, screening, tumor biology, and treatment. Interactive Q&A sessions and structured Google Forms identify knowledge gaps, guiding development of targeted educational content including infographics, short videos, and topic-focused posts. Outreach is expanded through in-person community conferences across the Greater Montreal Area.
Results
In under four months, Oncology101 generated more than 60,000 interactions and produced 40 educational infographics and videos, engaging individuals across diverse backgrounds. Analysis of submitted questions revealed recurrent misconceptions regarding screening intervals, cancer risk factors, biomarker testing, genetic risk, and eligibility for precision therapies. The initiative also delivered four in-person community engagements, reaching over 100 individuals with focused education on cancer care and screening.
Conclusion
Oncology 101, a resident-driven social media initiative meaningfully supported more equitable cancer care delivery. Future objectives include expanding our reach to over 100,000 individuals, delivering educational content through over 25 scheduled conferences, and strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations, including the launch of an educational oncology podcast in the upcoming year.