Experiences with Childhood Cancer among Latinx Families: Identification of Informational and Support Needs.

Latinx children with cancer generally have poorer health outcomes than their non-Latinx White counterparts. The purpose of this study was to examine the experience of Latinx mothers whose children have been diagnosed with cancer at the onset of symptoms, the barriers surrounding the diagnostic process, and the resources families identify are needed post-diagnosis. The researchers conducted two focus groups (one in Spanish, one in English) with Latina mothers of children who have or experienced pediatric cancer in the United States. Two researchers conducted constant comparative analysis of the transcribed focus group audio recordings to identify themes. Themes included a sense of community support at the onset of symptoms, feelings of disbelief, helplessness, overload of information, and a need for advocacy in medical settings. Needs included more palatable and simplified information, financial assistance and resources, increased parental social support, accessible Spanish-speaking providers, and culturally informed care. Latina mothers indicated a range of challenges pertaining to childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment that may impact child and family outcomes. Implications for social work practitioners to reduce disparities and develop intervention programs for Latinx families of children with cancer are discussed.

Methods to Decrease Disparities in Age of Autism Diagnosis and Treatment Access among Latinx Children.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects a substantial number of individuals and their families. Early diagnosis followed by intensive behavioral services is critical to reducing social communication deficits and behavioral challenges. Research has continually demonstrated health disparities with Latinx families that perpetuate lower ASD prevalence rates, later ASD diagnosis, and limited access to treatment compared with white children. Moreover, Latinx children who are diagnosed with ASD receive less intense and fewer treatment services. Given the number of Latinx children and those with ASD, social workers are likely to encounter the intersection throughout their careers. Thus, it is critical for social workers to have general knowledge about autism and the complexity of accessing diagnostic and treatment services. In this article, the authors review the literature on Latinx children and ASD, and identify opportunities for social workers to be innovative in their use of frameworks, theories, and practice approaches to reduce disparities in ASD diagnosis and treatment among Latinx children.