Colorectal cancer screening utilization among breast, cervical, prostate, skin, and lung cancer survivors

PURPOSE

To examine whether sociodemographic characteristics, access to care, risk behavior factors, and chronic health conditions were associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening utilization among breast, cervical, prostate, skin, and lung cancer survivors.

METHODS

We analyzed the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data on 9780 eligible cancer survivors. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to assess the association between guideline-concordant CRC screening and the mentioned characteristics.

RESULTS

Overall, 81.9%, 65%, 88%,78.1%, and 80.1% of breast, cervical, prostate, skin, and lung cancer survivors received CRC screening, respectively (p-value < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, breast, cervical, and skin cancer survivors aged 60 years or older were associated with higher odds of receiving CRC screening. Respondents that had their recency of routine checkup two or more years before had lower odds of having CRC screening among cervical (OR = 0.06; 95% CI, 0.02-0.22), prostate (OR = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.14-0.49), and skin cancer (OR = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.36-0.70) survivors. The presence of chronic diseases was also associated with guideline-concordant CRC screening among breast, prostate, and skin cancer survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide important evidence on potential factors that are associated with guideline-concordant CRC screening utilization across different cancer survivors, which include older age, recency of routine checkup, and multiple chronic diseases. Moreover, variation in CRC screening utilization across cancer survivors may highlight missed opportunities for secondary cancer prevention.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Establishing clear CRC screening guidelines and including patient-provider communication on recommendation in cancer survivorship care may increase adherence to CRC screening.

Geographic Disparity of Outcome in Patients With Cancer Over Decades: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results

BACKGROUND

Improvements in prevention, early detection, and effective cancer therapy have decreased cancer-related mortality; however, significant health disparities exist. Therefore, we investigated the impact of these disparities on survival.

METHODS

In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results, we identified 784,341 patients with cancer between 1990 and 2016 in Georgia, 68,493 between 1990 and 1999; 371,353 between 2000 and 2009; and 322,932 between 2010 and 2016. We assessed the overall survival (OS) of patients with all cancers, chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and lung cancer, given the dramatic improvement in outcomes in patients with CML since 2000 compared to the generally considerably worse outcomes in lung cancer. In addition, we assessed the distance from each county to the Georgia Cancer Center (GCC) or the National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center (NCI-CC).

RESULTS

The 5-year OS of patients with any cancer was 55%, and the 5-year OS of each county ranged from 33% to 82% (interquartile range, 51%-65%) (P < .001). In patients with lung cancer and CML, the 5-year OS rates were 15% and 52%, respectively. The geographic differences between counties were relatively small and constant over time for patients with lung cancer. However, geographic differences were more prominent in patients with CML and widened after the introduction of modern therapies. Multivariate Cox regression showed that age, median county income, race, and distance to GCC or NCI-CC were predictive factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant disparities in cancer care exist among geographic locations. Geographic differences in survival appear more prominent when highly effective therapies are available.

The Role of BMI in Allostatic Load and Risk of Cancer Death

INTRODUCTION

Obesity and proinflammatory conditions are associated with increased risks of cancer. The associations of baseline allostatic load with cancer mortality and whether this association is modified by body mass index (BMI) were examined.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed in March-September 2022 using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey years 1988 through 2010 linked with the National Death Index through December 31, 2019. Fine and Gray Cox proportional hazard models were stratified by BMI status to estimate subdistribution hazard ratios of cancer death between high and low allostatic load status (adjusted for age, sociodemographics, and health factors).

RESULTS

In fully adjusted models, high allostatic load was associated with a 23% increased risk of cancer death (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio=1.23; 95% CI=1.06, 1.43) among all participants, a 3% increased risk of cancer death (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio=1.03; 95% CI=0.78, 1.34) among underweight/healthy weight adults, a 31% increased risk of cancer death (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio=1.31; 95% CI=1.02, 1.67) among overweight adults, and a 39% increased risk of death (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio=1.39; 95% CI=1.04, 1.88) among obese adults, when compared to those with low allostatic load.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of cancer death is highest among those with high allostatic load and obese BMI, but this effect was attenuated among those with high allostatic load and underweight/healthy or overweight BMI.

Preventive behaviors and behavioral risk factors among gynecologic cancer survivors: Results from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey

BACKGROUND

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an important factor in promoting positive outcomes for gynecologic cancer survivors.

METHODS

We examined preventive behaviors among gynecologic cancer survivors (n = 1824) and persons without a history of cancer in a cross-sectional analysis, using data from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey (BRFSS). BRFSS is a cross-sectional telephone-based survey of U.S. residents 18 years of age and older, which collects information about health-related factors and use of preventive services.

RESULTS

The prevalence rates of colorectal cancer screening were respectively 7.9 (95% CI: 4.0-11.9) and 15.0 (95% CI: 4.0-11.9) %-points higher among gynecologic and other cancer survivors compared to that of 65.2% among those without any history of cancer. However, no differences were observed in breast cancer screening between gynecologic cancer survivors (78.5%) and respondents without any history of cancer (78.7%). Coverage of influenza vaccination among gynecologic cancer survivors were 4.0 (95% CI: 0.3-7.6) %-points higher than that of the no cancer group, but 11.6 (95% CI: 7.6-15.6) %-points lower than that of the other cancer group. Pneumonia vaccination rate among gynecologic cancer survivors, however, was not statistically different than that of other cancer survivors and respondents with no history of cancer. When examining modifiable risk behaviors, the prevalence of smoking among gynecologic cancer survivors was 12.8 (95% CI: 9.5-16.0) and 14.2 (95% CI: 10.8-17.7) %-points higher than smoking prevalence among other cancer survivors and respondents without any history of cancer. The rate differentials were even higher in rural areas, 17.4 (95% CI: 7.2-27.6) and 18.4 (95% CI: 7.4-29.4) %-points respectively. There were no differences in the prevalence of heavy drinking across the groups. Lastly, gynecologic and other cancer survivors were less likely to be physically active (Δ = -12.3, 95% CI: -15.8 to -8.8 and Δ = -6.9, 95% CI: -8.5 to -5.3, respectively) than those without any history of cancer.

CONCLUSION

Smoking prevalence among gynecologic cancer survivors is alarmingly high. Intervention studies are needed to identify effective ways to assist gynecologic cancer survivors to quit smoking and refrain from hazardous alcohol consumption. In addition, women with gynecologic malignancies should made aware of the importance of physical activity.

Understanding geographic and racial/ethnic disparities in mortality from four major cancers in the state of Georgia: a spatial epidemiologic analysis, 1999–2019

We examined geographic and racial variation in cancer mortality within the state of Georgia, and investigated the correlation between the observed spatial differences and county-level characteristics. We analyzed county-level cancer mortality data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer mortality among adults (aged ≥ 18 years) in 159 Georgia counties from years 1999 through 2019. Geospatial methods were applied, and we identified hot spot counties based on cancer mortality rates overall and stratified by non-Hispanic white (NH-white) and NH-black race/ethnicity. Among all adults, 5.0% (8 of 159), 8.2% (13 of 159), 5.0% (8 of 159), and 6.9% (11 of 159) of Georgia counties were estimated hot spots for breast cancer, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer mortality, respectively. Cancer mortality hot spots were heavily concentrated in three major areas: (1) eastern Piedmont to Coastal Plain regions, (2) southwestern rural Georgia area, or (3) northern-most rural Georgia. Overall, hot spot counties generally had higher proportion of NH-black adults, older adult population, greater poverty, and more rurality. In Georgia, targeted cancer prevention strategies and allocation of health resources are needed in counties with elevated cancer mortality rates, focusing on interventions suitable for NH-black race/ethnicity, low-income, and rural residents.

Exploring racial disparities on the association between allostatic load and cancer mortality: A retrospective cohort analysis of NHANES, 1988 through 2019

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Impact

•

Allostatic load (AL) is a biologic measure for the ‘wear and tear’ of chronic stress.

•

Studies suggests that racial minorities have higher allostatic load.

•

There is limited knowledge on the association between allostatic and cancer, by race.

•

We observed that AL may increase the risk of cancer death by 14%.

•

Among those aged <40 years, high AL increased cancer death risk by more than 80%.

Abstract 1020: Cancer health awareness through screening and education (CHANGE): Understanding community experience accessing cancer care

INTRODUCTION. Incidence and mortality rates for breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers all exceed national rates in Georgia and are higher among African Americans (AAs). Ensuring culturally competent and equitable health care delivery relies on creating an educated and engaged health care team. Patient stories are powerful examples of community-learned experiences and can be used to educate better providers and health care students who serve diverse populations, particularly when communicating risk and prevention of cancer. The goal of the CHANGE project is to provide a sustainable model of evidence-based cancer awareness through education - with an emphasis on prevention and early detection behaviors. We will develop a health disparities and culturally competent cancer care e-Learning curriculum for health care professionals, hematology-oncology fellows, residents, and medical students at the Medical College of Georgia.

METHODS. Thirty community members and stakeholders (93% AA, 76% female, all adults) were recruited through public housing, healthcare clinics and providers, and community organizations. Vignettes describing patient access and care interactions were used in semi-structured interviews to guide conversations about experiences accessing care, attitudes towards cancer prevention, and community cancer beliefs. Interviews were recorded, professionally transcribed, and content analyzed using NVivo 12.0 by two independent raters.

RESULTS. Three common themes emerged: accessibility of healthcare (transportation, finances, and difficulties in scheduling were primary barriers); cancer myths and cultural norms (no interpersonal discussion of cancer, seen as “taboo,” cancer will spread if cut into and cancer is contagious); and experience of racial bias in health care (historical racial bias and systemic racism; receipt of treatment and care perceived to be different due to race; lack of AA providers).

CONCLUSION. This sample adequately represented those most at risk for cancer in Augusta, GA area. Their shared experiences will be used to design and inform an e-learning curriculum, in conjunction with education on health disparities across the state and specific to the local community. This will provide a comprehensive approach to provider education that will begin to improve patient care satisfaction and health outcomes.

Citation Format: Marlo M. Vernon, Samantha Jones, Justin X. Moore, Steve S. Coughlin, Vahe Heboyan, Shakirah Clarke, Barbara Idun, Martha S. Tingen. Cancer health awareness through screening and education (CHANGE): Understanding community experience accessing cancer care [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 1020.

Abstract 5908: Understanding geographic and racial disparities in mortality from four major cancers in the state of Georgia: A spatial epidemiologic analysis, 1999 - 2019

Purpose of the study: Progress in cancer outcomes in the general population are not equitable among all populations, leaving some, such as rural and non-Hispanic Blacks (NH-Black) behind. We examined geographic and racial variation in cancer mortality in the state of Georgia, and investigated the correlation between the observed spatial differences and county-level characteristics.

Methods: We analyzed data on breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer mortality among adults (aged &gt;18 years) in 159 Georgia counties from years 1999 through 2019. Geospatial methods were applied, and we identified hot spot counties based on cancer mortality rates overall and stratified by non-Hispanic White (NH-White) and NH-Black races. We assessed differences in county-level characteristics between hot spot and non-hot spot counties using Wilcoxon rank-sum test and Spearman correlation and stratified all analyses by race/ethnicity.

Results: Among all adults, 5.0% (8 of 159), 8.2% (13 of 159), 5.0% (8 of 159), and 6.9% (11 of 159) of Georgia counties were estimated hot spots for breast cancer, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer mortality, respectively. Among NH-Whites, 5.7% (9 of 159), 4.4% (7 of 159), 4.4% (7 of 159) counties, and 5.0% (8 of 159) of counties were identified as hot spots for breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer mortality, respectively. Among NH-Blacks, 5.7% (9 of 159), 3.8% (6 of 159), 7.4% (11 of 159), and 5.7% (9 of 159) counties were identified as hot spots for breast, colorectal, lung, prostate cancer mortality, respectively. Cancer mortality hot spots were heavily concentrated in three major areas: 1) eastern Piedmont to Coastal Plain regions, 2) southwestern rural Georgia area, or 3) northern-most rural Georgia. Overall, hot spot counties generally had higher proportion of NH-Blacks, older adult population, greater poverty, and more rurality.

Conclusions: We observed distinct geographic and racial/ethnic disparities in mortality from breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer in Georgia. Targeted cancer prevention strategies and allocation of health resources are needed in counties with elevated cancer mortality rates, focusing on interventions suitable for NH-Black, low-income, and rural residents.

Citation Format: Justin Xavier Moore, Martha S. Tingen, Steven S. Coughlin, Christine O'Meara, Lorriane Odhiambo, Marlo Vernon, Samantha Jones, Robert Petcu, Ryan Johnson, K.M. Monirul Islam, Darryl Nettles, Ghadeer Albashir, Jorge Cortes. Understanding geographic and racial disparities in mortality from four major cancers in the state of Georgia: A spatial epidemiologic analysis, 1999 - 2019 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 5908.

Smoking cessation reduces systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1

Smoking increases systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1 (ET-1), both of which contribute to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The present study sought to test the hypothesis that a 12-week smoking cessation intervention would contribute to a long-term reduction in circulating ET-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). 30 individuals participated in a 12-week evidence-based smoking cessation program at Augusta University. Serum cotinine, plasma inflammatory cytokines, and plasma ET-1 were determined at baseline, immediately after the 12-week cessation program (end of treatment, EOT), and 12-months (12M) following the cessation program. Serum cotinine was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) at EOT and 12M following the smoking cessation program. Compared to BL (7.0 ± 1.6 pg/mL), TNF-α was significantly reduced at EOT (6.3 ± 1.5 pg/mL, p = 0.001) and 12M (5.2 ± 2.7 pg/mL, p < 0.001). ET-1 was significantly lower at EOT (1.9 ± 0.6 pg/mL, p = 0.013) and at 12M (2.0 ± 0.8 pg/mL, p = 0.091) following smoking cessation compared with BL (2.3 ± 0.6 pg/mL). BL concentrations of cotinine were significantly associated with basal ET-1 (r = 0.449, p = 0.013) and the change in cotinine at 12M following smoking cessation was significantly associated with the change in plasma ET-1 at 12M (r = 0.457, p = 0.011). Findings from the present pilot investigation demonstrate that a 12-week smoking cessation program reduces circulating concentrations of ET-1 and TNF-α for at least a year. The reduction in serum cotinine was associated with the decrease in circulating ET-1. The attenuation in ET-1 and inflammation may in part, contribute to the lower risk of CVD that is observed with smoking cessation.

Abstract 2608: Lung cancer prevention and an early detection educational intervention in minority and underserved communities

Purpose: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in African Americans (AAs). The 5-year relative survival rate for localized lung cancer among AAs is 52%; however, only 16% of lung cancer cases are detected at this early stage. Even when lung cancer is diagnosed early, AAs are less likely than whites to receive life-saving surgery.

Procedures: An educational intervention was delivered in 16 sites across the CSRA: 12 AA churches, three Federally-Qualified Health Centers, and one Community Center serving low-income and minority families. Community Health Workers at each site were selected and trained to deliver the educational content in four (4) 90-minute weekly sessions to participants in their congregation/facility. Content included cancer risk factors, the health consequences of tobacco use, tobacco cessation for current smokers, and the benefits of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer. Pre- and post-intervention “site surveys” were administered to individuals who were members/visitors of the intervention sites (i.e. members of the church, patients at the FQHC, and visitors of the Community Center) to assess community changes in knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding lung cancer following the intervention. This report is on the surveys completed anonymously by the people at the sites, not on those enrolled in the study.

Results: Data were collected from 2136 participants (n=1404 baseline and 732 follow-up). Baseline and follow-up surveys were independent observations. Approximately 70.1% of respondents were female, 29.9% male, and 91.9% AA. There was significant improvement in the self-reported frequency of exercise among respondents, with 41.5% reporting 2-3 days of exercise at follow-up compared to 34.2% at baseline (p=0.006). Other significant findings include: current smoking status decreased from 13.5% at baseline to 8.0% at follow-up (p=0.001); knowledge of the recommended screening test for lung cancer increased from 35.2% at baseline to 43.4% at follow-up (p=0.002); men who have had a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test within the last year increased from 54.4% at baseline to 72.2% at follow-up (p=0.006); and women answering whether they had ever had a mammogram increased from 78.0% at baseline to 86.6% at follow-up (p&lt;0.001).

Conclusion: AAs are at greater risk for lung cancer incidence and mortality due to low access to quality healthcare, education, and prevention efforts. This project demonstrates that education and prevention efforts can be used to increase community knowledge about lung cancer and cancer risk factors, provide resources to decrease risk factors (smoking cessation) and increase access to screening for early detection. These efforts are promising for reducing cancer incidence and increasing early detection, and decreasing mortality rates among AAs who suffer disproportionate cancer health disparities.

Citation Format: Samantha J. Sojourner, Marlo M. Vernon, Ghadeer Albashir, Justin X. Moore, Stephen W. Looney, Martha S. Tingen. Lung cancer prevention and an early detection educational intervention in minority and underserved communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2608.

Abstract 2553: Using a “train-the-trainer” approach with urban and rural minority community health workers to implement the cancer-Community Awareness Access Research and Education (c-CARE) Project

Introduction: Community health workers (CHW) are often a key component to effective implementation of health promotion interventions; training on intervention delivery and self-efficacy enhances CHW effectiveness. The cancer-Community Awareness Access Research and Education (c-CARE) project utilized a train-the-trainer approach to equip CHWs to teach the four-week c-CARE lung cancer module. Project objectives included providing and facilitating: 1) education on risks of lung cancer, 2) low-dose CT (LCDT) screening for eligible participants, 3) smoking cessation, and 4) training CHWs to deliver the educational intervention and thus promote sustainability.

Methods: Lay CHWs (n=63, 54 urban, 9 rural, 92% female, 56% having ≥Bachelors degree, 79% healthcare providers) were selected from 16 historically African American (AA) churches (n = 9 urban, 3 rural), Federally-Qualified Health centers (n=3) and one community center, all in Georgia or South Carolina. CHW inclusion criteria included pastor recommendation from the churches' healthcare ministry (primarily nurses and other allied health professionals) or community clinic workers who were public health practitioners, nurses, and paraprofessionals. CHWs participated in a 2-day implementation training. Training topics included: their role as a c-CARE facilitator, knowledge of cancer risk factors and lung cancer screening, and using the c-CARE materials to teach the sessions. Pre and post surveys assessed knowledge, satisfaction with the training, and self-efficacy regarding teaching the content. Responses were summarized; all significance tests were two-tailed using a significance level of 0.05.

Result: Improvement in each of the six items was strongly significant (p &lt; 0.001), with a mean improvement of at least 2 points on the 0-10 scale in: 1) understanding of their roles as c-CARE facilitators, 2) knowledge of cancer risk factors, 3) knowledge of lung cancer screening, 4) confidence in conducting a c-CARE group, 5) confidence in their abilities to implement a policy change, and 6) confidence in using c-CARE materials to teach participants. Participants also reported satisfaction with the c-CARE training they received. There were no significant differences between urban and rural CHW participants. CHWs conducted 64 sessions for 586 participants as a part of the c-CARE project.

Discussion: Use of lay CHWs to deliver culturally competent cancer education and screening navigation was an important component of the c-CARE project. Increases in knowledge regarding cancer risk factors, screening requirements, and self-efficacy in leading the sessions were reported by the CHWs. Use of local lay CHWs ensures sustainability, positively affecting community knowledge, attitude and beliefs regarding lung cancer, prevention, and screening behaviors.

Citation Format: Marlo M. Vernon, Ghadeer Albashir, Samantha J. Sojourner, Justin X. Moore, Stephen W. Looney, Martha S. Tingen. Using a “train-the-trainer” approach with urban and rural minority community health workers to implement the cancer-Community Awareness Access Research and Education (c-CARE) Project [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2553.

Knowledge of prostate cancer among African American men: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies indicate that many African American men may not be making informed decisions about prostate cancer early detection. This is partly due to patients having limited knowledge about early detection of the disease.

METHODS

The present review is based upon bibliographic searches in PubMed and CINAHL and relevant search terms. Articles (n = 235) published in English from 1993 through July 31, 2020 were identified using the following MESH search terms and Boolean algebra commands: prostate cancer and knowledge and African Americans.

RESULTS

Forty-two articles were eligible for inclusion. The results of this literature review indicate that many African American men have inadequate knowledge of prostate cancer and prostate cancer early detection. Studies indicate that knowledge of prostate cancer is particularly low among older, less-educated, lower-income, and unmarried men, along with those who lack a regular physician or health insurance. Many African American men are unaware that they are at increased risk of prostate cancer because of their age or race.

CONCLUSIONS

Culturally appropriate educational efforts are needed to inform African- American men about the pros and cons of prostate cancer early detection and about risk factors for the disease so that they can make an informed decision about whether prostate cancer early detection is right for them. Of particular concern is the prostate cancer knowledge of low-income and less-educated men, along with those who lack health care insurance or a regular provider.

Geographic disparity of outcome in patients with cancer over decades: The surveillance, epidemiology, and end results

1574

Background: Improvements in prevention, early detection and therapy of cancer have decreased cancer related mortality yet health disparities continue to exist. We investigated the impact of such disparities in cancer survival. Methods: In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results, we identified 784,341 patients with cancer from 1990 to 2016 in Georgia; 68,493 in 1990-1999, 371,353 in 2000-2009, and 322,932 in 2010-2016. We assessed overall survival (OS) of patients with all cancers, chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and lung cancer given the dramatic improvement in patient outcomes in CML since 2000 compared to the consistently poor outcome in lung cancer. We assessed distance from each county to the one National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center (NCI-CC) in Georgia. Results: The 5-year OS of patients with any cancer was 55% with median OS 80 months; the 5-y OS of each county ranged from 33% to 82% (interquartile range[IQR], 51%-65%)(P < 0.001). The improvement of OS was minimal over decades: 5-year OS was 52%, 55%, and 55% in 1990-1999, 2000-2009, and 2010-2016, respectively; the median was 69 months, 80 months, not reached, respectively (P < 0.001). In patients with lung cancer and CML, the 5-year OS was 15% and 52% with the median of 9 months and 67 months, respectively. The geographic difference between counties was relatively small and constant over time in patients with lung cancer, represented by the width in the range and IQR: range 5%-17%, IQR 9%-13%, median 13% in 1990-1999; range 2%-24%, IQR 10%-14%, median 14% in 2000-2009; and range 4%-24%, IQR 12%-17%, median 17% in 2010-2016. However, the geographic difference was more prominent in patients with CML and widened after introduction of modern therapy: range 20%-42%, IQR 26%-34%, median 32% in 1990-1999; range 14%-83%, IQR 38%-64%, median 53% in 2000-2009; and range 14%-80%, IQR 40%-57%, median 57% in 2010-2016. Multivariate Cox regression showed age (hazard ratio[HR],1.040;95% confidence interval[CI],1.039-1.040;P < 0.001), median county income (HR,0.919;95% CI,0.916-0.921;P < 0.001), African American (HR,1.021;95% CI,1.210-1.227;P < 0.001), and distance to NCI-CC (each 100 kilometers) (HR,1.021;95% CI,1.017-1.025;P < 0.001) as predictive factors. Conclusions: The disparity of cancer care exists between geographic locations. The geographic difference of survival seems more prominent when highly effective therapies are available.

Ethnic Differences in Nighttime Melatonin and Nighttime Blood Pressure: A Study in European Americans and African Americans

BACKGROUND

Ethnic differences in nighttime blood pressure (BP) have long been documented with African Americans (AAs) having higher BP than European Americans (EAs). At present, lower nighttime melatonin, a key regulator of circadian rhythms, has been associated with higher nighttime BP levels in EAs. This study sought to test the hypothesis that AAs have lower nighttime melatonin secretion compared with EAs. We also determined if this ethnic difference in melatonin could partially explain the ethnic difference in nighttime BP.

METHODS

A total of 150 young adults (71 AA; 46% females; mean age: 27.7 years) enrolled in the Georgia Stress and Heart study provided an overnight urine sample for the measurement of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin, a major metabolite of melatonin. Urine melatonin excretion (UME) was calculated as the ratio between 6-sulfatoxymelatonin concentration and creatinine concentration. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory BP was assessed and nighttime systolic BP (SBP) was used as a major index of BP regulation.

RESULTS

After adjustment of age, sex, body mass index, and smoking, AAs had significantly lower UME (P = 0.002) and higher nighttime SBP than EAs (P = 0.036). Lower UME was significantly associated with higher nighttime SBP and this relationship did not depend on ethnicity. The ethnicity difference in nighttime SBP was significantly attenuated after adding UME into the model (P = 0.163).

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to document the ethnic difference in nighttime melatonin excretion, demonstrating that AAs have lower melatonin secretion compared with EAs. Furthermore, the ethnic difference in nighttime melatonin can partially account for the established ethnic difference in nighttime SBP.

Measurement of Key Constructs in a Holistic Framework for Assessing Self-Management Effectiveness of Pediatric Asthma

The 2007 U.S. National Institutes of Health EPR-3 guidelines emphasize the importance creating a provider-patient partnership to enable patients/families to monitor and take control of their asthma, so that treatment can be adjusted as needed. However, major shortfalls continue to be reported in provider adherence to EPR-3 guidelines. For providers to be more engaged in asthma management, they need a comprehensive set of resources for measuring self-management effectiveness of asthma, which currently do not exist. In a previously published article in the Journal of Asthma and Allergy, the authors conducted a literature review, to develop a holistic framework for understanding self-management effectiveness of pediatric asthma. The essence of this framework, is that broad socioecological factors can influence self-agency (patient/family activation), to impact self-management effectiveness, in children with asthma. A component of socio-ecological factors of special relevance to providers, would be the quality of provider-patient/family communication on asthma management. Therefore, the framework encompasses three key constructs: (1) Provider-patient/family communication; (2) Patient/family activation; and (3) Self-management effectiveness. This paper conducts an integrative review of the literature, to identify existing, validated measures of the three key constructs, with a view to operationalizing the framework, and discussing its implications for asthma research and practice.

Design of a Community-Based Lung Cancer Education, Prevention, and Screening Program

Uptake of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening is extremely low. Efforts to promote screening are warranted, especially among disparate groups such as racial/ethnic minorities and those of lower socioeconomic status. This article describes the design and implementation strategies of the ongoing cancer-Community Awareness Access Research and Education (c-CARE) program. The purpose of c-CARE is to increase community awareness of lung cancer screening through education. Community health workers were trained to implement the intervention in 12 community sites. The Health Belief Model guided the evaluation and intervention development methods. Aims include changing participants' knowledge, attitude, and beliefs related to lung cancer and increasing lung cancer early detection and prevention behaviors by identifying and connecting high-risk and/or nicotine-dependent individuals to LDCT screening and/or tobacco cessation services. If effective, these methods could model increased dissemination to other high-risk communities.

The impact of traditional literacy and education on health literacy in adolescents with asthma

Introduction: People with low health literacy have poorer self-management of chronic diseases like asthma. Studies of parent health literacy and education level on the management of children's chronic illnesses reveal inconclusive results. We hypothesized a correlation between parent and adolescent health literacy in teens with asthma. Methods: Sociodemographic data were obtained; health literacy was assessed on adolescents and parents with three instruments: Rapid Estimate of Adolescent/Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM), Single Item Literacy Screener (SILS) and Newest Vital Sign (NVS). Agreement between scores was examined by calculating weighted kappa statistics and performing Bowkers test of symmetry. Results: In all, 243 adolescents and 203 parents completed health literacy assessments yielding 198 paired observations. 9th-12th graders, 60.6% female, 72.7% African-American (AA), mean age: 15.3 years (±0.9). Parent education ranged from < high school (19.1%) to college graduate (24.0%). Agreement between adolescent and parent scores was poor: REALM (κ_w = 0.26), SILS (κ_w = 0.12), and NVS (κ_w = 0.29) and disagreement did not significantly differ by race. Positive correlations of moderate strength (overall and between racial groups) were found between reading scores and both REALM and NVS scores, and between REALM and NVS scores. Due to the inverse relationship of SILS scores with health literacy level, SILS scores (overall and between racial groups) were weakly and negatively correlated with reading scores, REALM and NVS. Conclusion: Correlation between education level and traditional literacy suggests that these are contributing factors to the health literacy of adolescents with asthma. Correlation between adolescent and caregiver health literacy was not supported.

Demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral associations with cancer screening among a homeless population

BACKGROUND

Although cancer incidence and mortality is declining, cancer remains among the leading causes of death in the United States. Research shows that cancer morbidity and mortality can be reduced by early detection. Yet, both cancer risks and screening behavior remain understudied in the homeless population.

METHODS

Researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey of homeless individuals (n = 201). The analysis describes the demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral associations with cancer screenings and knowledge of the lung cancer screening recommendation.

RESULTS

Participants' mean age was 51.7 years (SD 13.6); the group was largely African American (77.3%) and male (67.9%). Among women, the breast and cervical cancer screening rates were 46.5% and 85.1%. Among men the prostate cancer screening rate was 34.2%. Among all participants, the colon cancer screening rate was 44%. Cancer risk behaviors were high. Lung cancer screening knowledge was low (23.0%). Some cancer screening behaviors were associated with age, income, health status, obesity, tobacco use, and physical activity.

DISCUSSION

Despite higher cancer risk behaviors, knowledge and general participation rates for cancer screenings were below national benchmarks.

CONCLUSION

To improve cancer survival among disparate populations, sustained community outreach is necessary to increase awareness of screening recommendations, identify high-risk individuals, and navigate them to resources.

Parental Smoking Cessation: Impacting Children's Tobacco Smoke Exposure in the Home

OBJECTIVES

There is no safe or risk-free level of tobacco use or tobacco smoke exposure. In this randomized controlled trial, we tested a tobacco control intervention in families and specifically evaluated a tailored cessation intervention for the parents and/or caregivers (Ps/Cs) who were smokers while their children were simultaneously enrolled in tobacco prevention.

METHODS

Ps/Cs and children were recruited from 14 elementary schools across rural and urban settings. Approximately one-fourth (24.3%; n = 110) of the total Ps/Cs enrolled in the randomized controlled trial (n = 453) were smokers, predominantly women (80.9%), with a mean age of 37.7 years. (SD 12.2); 62.7% were African American, 44% had less than a high school education, and 58% earned <$20 000 annually. P/C smokers were offered a tailored cessation intervention in years 1 and 2. Self-report smoking status and saliva cotinine were obtained at baseline, the end of treatment (EOT) and/or year 2, and in the year 4 follow-up.

RESULTS

Ps/Cs in the intervention group showed a larger increase in self-reported smoking abstinence over time (EOT: 6.5% [SE = 5.7%]; year 4: 40.6% [SE = 5.7%]) than the control group (EOT: 0.0% [SE = 6.5%]; year 4: 13.2% [SE = 6.4%]; F = 4.82; P = .0306). For cotinine, the intervention group showed a decrease from baseline (239.9 [SE = 1.3]) to EOT 99.3 [SE = 1.4]) and then maintenance through year 4 (109.6 [SE = 1.4]), whereas the control group showed increases from baseline (221.1 [SE = 1.4]) to EOT (239.0 [SE = 1.4]) to year 4 (325.8 [SE = 14]; F = 5.72; P = .0039).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence that tailored cessation offered to Ps/Cs in their children's schools during their children's enrollment in tobacco prevention may contribute to more robust success in P/C cessation and a reduction of tobacco smoke exposure in children.

Tobacco Use and Smoke Exposure in Children: New Trends, Harm, and Strategies to Improve Health Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Every day in the USA, approximately 4000 adolescents begin smoking and the adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to nicotine addiction. We present current pediatric trends on tobacco use and exposures, various new products used by adolescents, the adverse biological and behavioral effects of tobacco use and exposures, and tobacco control strategies to eliminate tobacco-related illnesses and deaths in the pediatric population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Twelve-20% of women continue to smoke during pregnancy. New research reveals cognitive differences and behavior-control disorders are seen in elementary school children from prenatal and postnatal exposures. Traditional cigarette smoking has decreased in adolescents; novel and appealing tobacco products have captured their attention, particularly electronic cigarettes, and rates double and often triple from middle to high school. Children with asthma and those living in multi-housing units have higher rates of secondhand smoke exposure than non-asthmatics and children living in single-home dwellings. There is no "safe or risk-free" level of tobacco use or exposure. Tobacco use and exposure in childhood and adolescence must be decreased using evidenced-based strategies to improve child health.

Effect of a smoking cessation intervention for women in subsidized neighborhoods: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a community based participatory research (CBPR) developed, multi-level smoking cessation intervention among women in subsidized housing neighborhoods in the Southeastern US.

METHODS

A total of n=409 women in 14 subsidized housing neighborhoods in Georgia and South Carolina participated in this group randomized controlled trial conducted from 2009 to 2013. Intervention neighborhoods received a 24-week intervention with 1:1 community health worker contact, behavioral peer group sessions, and nicotine replacement. Control neighborhoods received written cessation materials at weeks 1, 6, 12, 18. Random coefficient models were used to compare smoking abstinence outcomes at 6 and 12months. Significance was set a p<0.05.

RESULTS

The majority of participants (91.2%) were retained during the 12-month intervention period. Smoking abstinence rates at 12months for intervention vs. control were 9% vs. 4.3%, p=0.05. Additional analyses accounting for passive smoke exposure in these multi-unit housing settings demonstrated 12month abstinence rates of 12% vs. 5.3%, p=0.016. However, in the multivariate regression analyses, there was no significant effect of the intervention on the odds of being a non-smoker (OR=0.44, 95% CI: 0.18-1.07). Intervention participants who kept coach visits, attended group sessions, and used patches were more likely to remain abstinent.

CONCLUSIONS

This CBPR developed intervention showed potential to engage smokers and reduce smoking among women in these high-poverty neighborhoods. Effectiveness in promoting cessation in communities burdened with fiscal, environmental and social inequities remains a public health priority.