Difficulties in access to cancer services in rural settings have been well documented [68]. In 2012, 23.1% of men and women ≥ 65 were rural
residents [24]. Elderly women are at greater risk of social isolation and marginalisation. Our analysis demonstrated that, approximately 50% of
elderly women ≥ 65 were widowed compared to 15% of men [34]. In addition, households headed by women aged ≥ 65 were comparatively
smaller than households headed by elderly men [32, 33]. This may have health implications with elderly female cancer patients shown to be
at risk of under-treatment