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Dona AC, Jewett PI, Hwee S, Brown K, Solomon M, Gupta A, Teoh D, Yang G, Wolfson J, Fan Y, Blaes AH, Vogel RI. Logistic burdens of cancer care: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300852. [PMID: 38573993 PMCID: PMC10994350 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment often creates logistic conflicts with everyday life priorities; however, these challenges and how they are subjectively experienced have been largely unaddressed in cancer care. Our goal was to describe time and logistic requirements of cancer care and whether and how they interfered with daily life and well-being. We conducted interviews with 20 adults receiving cancer-directed treatment at a single academic cancer center. We focused on participants' perception of the time, effort, and energy-intensiveness of cancer care activities, organization of care requirements, and preferences in how to manage the logistic burdens of their cancer care. Participant interview transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Burdens related to travel, appointment schedules, healthcare system navigation, and consequences for relationships had roots both at the system-level (e.g. labs that were chronically delayed, protocol-centered rather than patient-centered bureaucratic requirements) and in individual circumstances (e.g. greater stressors among those working and/or have young children versus those who are retired) that determined subjective burdensomeness, which was highest among patients who experienced multiple sources of burdens simultaneously. Our study illustrates how objective burdens of cancer care translate into subjective burden depending on patient circumstances, emphasizing that to study burdens of care, an exclusive focus on objective measures does not capture the complexity of these issues. The complex interplay between healthcare system factors and individual circumstances points to clinical opportunities, for example helping patients to find ways to meet work and childcare requirements while receiving care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison C. Dona
- School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Patricia I. Jewett
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Sharon Hwee
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Katherine Brown
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Matia Solomon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Arjun Gupta
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Deanna Teoh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Guang Yang
- Daynamica, Inc., Chanhassen, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Julian Wolfson
- Daynamica, Inc., Chanhassen, Minnesota, United States of America
- Division of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Yingling Fan
- Daynamica, Inc., Chanhassen, Minnesota, United States of America
- Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Anne H. Blaes
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Rachel I. Vogel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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Narasimman M, Hernaez R, Cerda V, Lee M, Yekkaluri S, Khan A, Sood A, Gurley T, Quirk L, Liu Y, Kramer JR, Lee SC, Tiro JA, Murphy CC, Singal AG. Financial Burden of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening in Patients With Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 22:760-767.e1. [PMID: 37544418 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The overall value of hepatocellular carcinoma screening is defined by the balance of benefits and harms. Studies have only reported physical harms with none describing financial harms. METHODS We conducted a multicenter pragmatic randomized clinical trial of hepatocellular carcinoma screening outreach among 2872 patients with cirrhosis from March 2018 to April 2021. Patients with positive or indeterminate results and matched patients with negative results completed surveys at baseline and at follow-up measuring financial harms via Cancer Self-Administered Questionnaire and financial burden via Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy. Univariable and multivariable longitudinal regression analyses were performed to compare changes in financial harms across groups: true positive, true negative, false positive, and indeterminate. Semistructured interviews were conducted in a subset of patients, sampled by center and test result. RESULTS Of 311 patients who completed at least 1 follow-up survey (75% response rate), 37 had true positive, 133 true negative, 64 false positive, and 77 indeterminate results. Financial harms increased in true positive and false positive patients with no significant changes noted among those with true negative or indeterminate results. At follow-up, 21.8% of patients reported moderate-severe financial burden, which was not significantly associated with test results. Semistructured interviews revealed variation in the frequency and severity of financial harms based on test results, with increased harm in those with false positive results. CONCLUSIONS Financial harms of hepatocellular carcinoma screening vary by test result and can pose a barrier that must be considered when determining the optimal screening program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa Narasimman
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Vanessa Cerda
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - MinJae Lee
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Sruthi Yekkaluri
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Aisha Khan
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anubha Sood
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Tami Gurley
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Lisa Quirk
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Yan Liu
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer R Kramer
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Simon Craddock Lee
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jasmin A Tiro
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Caitlin C Murphy
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health Hospital System, Dallas, Texas.
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Liang MI, Dholakia JD, Lee GM, Wang L, Kako TD, Blair I, Williams CP, Arend RC, Huh WK, Rocque GB, Pisu M. Dedicated financial hardship screening adds value to routine distress screening among gynecologic cancer patients. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 183:53-60. [PMID: 38518528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate existing distress screening to identify patients with financial hardship (FH) compared to dedicated FH screening and assess patient attitudes toward FH screening. METHODS We screened gynecologic cancer patients starting a new line of therapy. Existing screening included: (1) Moderate/severe distress defined as Distress Thermometer score ≥ 4, (2) practical concerns identified from Problem Checklist, and (3) a single question assessing trouble paying for medications. FH screening included: (1) Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) tool and (2) 10-item Financial Needs Checklist to guide referrals. FH was defined as COST score < 26. We calculated sensitivity (patients with moderate/severe distress + FH over total patients with FH) and specificity (patients with no/mild distress + no FH over total patients with no FH) to assess the extent distress screening could capture FH. Surveys and exit interviews assessed patient perspectives toward screening. RESULTS Of 364 patients screened for distress, average age was 62 years, 25% were Black, 45% were Medicare beneficiaries, 32% had moderate/severe distress, 15% reported ≥1 practical concern, and 0 reported trouble paying for medications. Most (n = 357, 98%) patients also completed FH screening: of them, 24% screened positive for FH, 32% reported ≥1 financial need. Distress screening had 57% sensitivity and 77% specificity for FH. Based on 79 surveys and 43 exit interviews, FH screening was acceptable with feedback to improve the timing and setting of screening. CONCLUSIONS Dedicated FH screening was feasible and acceptable, but sensitivity was low. Importantly, 40% of women with FH would not have been identified with distress screening alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret I Liang
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jhalak D Dholakia
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Grace M Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lingling Wang
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Tavonna D Kako
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Isabella Blair
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Courtney P Williams
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rebecca C Arend
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Warner K Huh
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Gabrielle B Rocque
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Maria Pisu
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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Williams CP, Deng L, Caston NE, Gallagher K, Angove R, Pisu M, Azuero A, Arend R, Rocque GB. Understanding the financial cost of cancer clinical trial participation. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7185. [PMID: 38629264 PMCID: PMC11022148 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though financial hardship is a well-documented adverse effect of standard-of-care cancer treatment, little is known about out-of-pocket costs and their impact on patients participating in cancer clinical trials. This study explored the financial effects of cancer clinical trial participation. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis used survey data collected in December 2022 and May 2023 from individuals with cancer previously served by Patient Advocate Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing social needs navigation and financial assistance to US adults with a chronic illness. Surveys included questions on cancer clinical trial participation, trial-related financial hardship, and sociodemographic data. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted using Cramer's V to estimate the in-sample magnitude of association. Associations between trial-related financial hardship and sociodemographics were estimated using adjusted relative risks (aRR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) from modified Poisson regression models with robust standard errors. RESULTS Of 650 survey respondents, 18% (N = 118) reported ever participating in a cancer clinical trial. Of those, 47% (n = 55) reported financial hardship as a result of their trial participation. Respondents reporting trial-related financial hardship were more often unemployed or disabled (58% vs. 43%; V = 0.15), Medicare enrolled (53% vs. 40%; V = 0.15), and traveled >1 h to their cancer provider (45% vs. 17%; V = 0.33) compared to respondents reporting no hardship. Respondents who experienced trial-related financial hardship most often reported expenses from travel (reported by 71% of respondents), medical bills (58%), dining out (40%), or housing needs (40%). Modeling results indicated that respondents traveling >1 h vs. ≤30 min to their cancer provider had a 2.2× higher risk of financial hardship, even after adjusting for respondent race, income, employment, and insurance status (aRR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.8). Most respondents (53%) reported needing $200-$1000 per month to compensate for trial-related expenses. Over half (51%) of respondents reported less willingness to participate in future clinical trials due to incurred financial hardship. Notably, of patients who did not participate in a cancer clinical trial (n = 532), 13% declined participation due to cost. CONCLUSION Cancer clinical trial-related financial hardship, most often stemming from travel expenses, affected almost half of trial-enrolled patients. Interventions are needed to reduce adverse financial participation effects and potentially improve cancer clinical trial participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luqin Deng
- University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | | | | | | | - Maria Pisu
- University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Andres Azuero
- University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Rebecca Arend
- University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
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55
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Gu C, Jewett PI, Yabroff KR, Vogel RI, Parsons HM, Gangnon RE, Purani H, Blaes AH. Forgoing physician visits due to cost: regional clustering among cancer survivors by age, sex, and race/ethnicity. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:385-397. [PMID: 35316473 PMCID: PMC9492897 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01201-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Innovative treatments have improved cancer survival but also increased financial hardship for patients. While demographic factors associated with financial hardship among cancer survivors are known in the USA, the role of geography is less clear. METHODS We evaluated prevalence of forgoing care due to cost within 12 months by US Census region (Northeast, North Central/Midwest [NCMW], South, West) by demographic factors (age, sex, race/ethnicity) among 217,981 cancer survivors aged 18 to 82 years from the 2015-2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey. We summarized region- and group-specific prevalence of forgoing physician visits due to cost and used multilevel logistic regression models to compare regions. RESULTS The prevalence of forgoing physician visits due to cost was highest in the South (aged < 65 years: 19-38%; aged ≥ 65: 4-21%; adjusted odds ratios [OR], NCMW versus South, OR: 0.63 [0.56-0.71]; Northeast versus South, OR: 0.63 [0.55-0.73]; West versus South, OR: 0.73 [0.64-0.84]). Across the USA, including regions with broad Medicaid expansion, younger, female, and persons of color most often reported cost-related forgoing physician visits. CONCLUSION Forgoing physician visits due to cost among cancer survivors is regionally clustered, raising concerns for concentrated poor long-term cancer outcomes. Underlying factors likely include variation in regional population compositions and contextual factors, such as Medicaid expansion and social policies. Disproportionate cost burden among survivors of color in all regions highlight systemic barriers, underscoring the need to improve access to the entire spectrum of care for cancer survivors, and especially for those most vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Gu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Patricia I Jewett
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - K Robin Yabroff
- Surveillance & Health Equity Science Department, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Helen M Parsons
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ronald E Gangnon
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Himal Purani
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Anne H Blaes
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
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Vasquez-Trespalacios EM, Rivera Rivera JN, McIntyre M, Santiago-Datil W, Wenham RM, Vadaparampil ST, Buras AL, Conley CC. High Financial Hardship among Patients with Advanced Ovarian Cancer. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2024; 20:120-132. [PMID: 38635421 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2024.2342285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is considered the most fatal and costly gynecologic cancer. Although personalized therapies have improved ovarian cancer prognosis, they have resulted in increased financial toxicity concerns among this population. This study evaluated financial toxicity in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Using secondary data from a study of barriers to palliative care, financial toxicity (FT) was measured through the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity scale. Univariate and bivariate analyses were used to assess the relationship between selected demographic (i.e., age, race, ethnicity, education, place of birth, insurance type, yearly household income, employment status) and treatment-specific variables (i.e., years since diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal and targeted therapy) with clinically relevant financial toxicity. Characteristics were compared using Fisher's exact or chi squared tests. A total of 38 participants with advanced ovarian cancer were included in this study; 24% (n = 9) reported clinically significant FT. Income (p = .001), place of birth (p = .048) and employment status (p = .001) were related to FT. Study findings highlight that advanced ovarian cancer patients experience high FT, particularly those with low income, who are not able to work and were born outside the US. Further research using larger datasets and more representative samples is needed to inform intervention development and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - McKenzie McIntyre
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Robert M Wenham
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Andrea L Buras
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Lacks Cancer Center, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Claire C Conley
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Ohlsen TJD, Wang H, Buchbinder D, Huang IC, Desai AD, Zheng Z, Kirchhoff AC, Park ER, Krull K, Conti RM, Yasui Y, Leisenring W, Armstrong GT, Yabroff KR, Nathan PC, Chow EJ. Financial hardship among siblings of long-term survivors of childhood cancer: A Childhood Cancer Survivor Study report. Cancer 2024; 130:1125-1136. [PMID: 38100563 PMCID: PMC10939878 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Siblings of children with cancer may experience adverse household economic consequences, but their financial outcomes in adulthood are unknown. METHODS A total of 880 siblings (aged 18-64 years) of adult-aged childhood cancer survivors were surveyed to estimate the prevalence of financial hardship by three established domains (behavioral, material, and psychological). For individual financial hardship items matching the contemporaneous National Health Interview Survey or Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, siblings were compared with the general population by calculating adjusted prevalence odds ratios (ORs) to sample-weighted responses. Multivariable logistic regression models examined associations between sibling characteristics and each hardship domain and between sibling hardship and survivors' cancer/treatment characteristics. RESULTS Behavioral, material, and psychological hardship was reported by 24%, 35%, and 28%, respectively. Compared with national survey respondents, siblings were more likely to report worries about medical bills (OR, 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.22), difficulty affording nutritious foods (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.54-2.07), and forgoing needed medical care (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.10-1.73), prescription medications (OR, 2.52; 95% CI, 1.99-3.20), and dental care (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.15-1.57) because of cost. Sibling characteristics associated with reporting financial hardship in one or more domains included female sex, older age, chronic health conditions, lower income, not having health insurance, high out-of-pocket medical expenditures, and nonmedical/nonhome debt. No survivor cancer/treatment characteristics were associated with sibling financial hardship. CONCLUSIONS Adult siblings of childhood cancer survivors were more likely to experience financial hardship compared with the general population. Childhood cancer may adversely affect entire households, with potentially lasting implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J. D. Ohlsen
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Huiqi Wang
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - I-Chan Huang
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Arti D. Desai
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Anne C. Kirchhoff
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Kevin Krull
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rena M. Conti
- Questrom School of Business, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yutaka Yasui
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | | - Paul C. Nathan
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eric J. Chow
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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Beauchemin MP, Solomon S, Michaels CL, McHenry K, Turi E, Khurana R, Sanabria G. Toward identification and intervention to address financial toxicity and unmet health-related social needs among adolescents and emerging adults with cancer and their caregivers: A cross-cultural perspective. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7197. [PMID: 38659403 PMCID: PMC11043682 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We qualitatively explored the unique needs and preferences for financial toxicity screening and interventions to address financial toxicity among adolescents and emerging adults (younger AYAs: 15-25 years) with cancer and their caregivers. METHODS We recruited English- or Spanish-speaking younger AYAs who were treated for cancer within the past 2 years and their caregivers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore preferences for screening and interventional study development to address financial toxicity. The data were coded using conventional content analysis. Codes were reviewed with the study team, and interviews continued until saturation was reached; codes were consolidated into categories and themes during consensus discussions. RESULTS We interviewed 17 participants; nine were younger AYAs. Seven of the 17 preferred to speak Spanish. We identified three cross-cutting themes: burden, support, and routine, consistent, and clear. The burden came in the form of unexpected costs such as transportation to appointments, as well as emotional burdens such as AYAs worrying about how much their family sacrificed for their care or caregivers worrying about the AYA's physical and financial future. Support, in the form of familial, community, healthcare institution, and insurance, was critical to mitigating the effects of financial toxicity in this population. Participants emphasized the importance of meeting individual financial needs by routinely and consistently asking about financial factors and providing clear guidance to navigate these needs. CONCLUSION Younger AYAs and their caregivers experience significant financial challenges and unmet health-related social needs during cancer treatment and often rely on key supports to alleviate these unmet needs. When developing interventions to mitigate financial toxicity, clinicians and health systems should prioritize clear, consistent, and tailorable approaches to support younger AYA cancer survivors and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa P. Beauchemin
- School of NursingColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer CenterColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Samrawit Solomon
- School of NursingColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Claudia L. Michaels
- School of NursingColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Kathryn McHenry
- School of MedicineColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Eleanor Turi
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rhea Khurana
- School of NursingColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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Kwon Y, Roberts ET, Degenholtz HB, Jacobs BL, Sabik LM. Association of Medicare eligibility with access to and affordability of care among older cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01562-x. [PMID: 38520599 PMCID: PMC11417130 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01562-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Older cancer survivors have substantial needs for ongoing care, but they may encounter difficulties accessing care due to cost concerns. We examined whether near-universal insurance coverage through Medicare-a key source of health insurance coverage in this population-is associated with improvements in care access and affordability among older cancer survivors around age 65. METHODS In a nationally representative sample of cancer survivors (aged 50-80) from 2006-2018 National Health Interview Survey, we employed a quasi-experimental, regression discontinuity design to estimate changes in insurance coverage, delayed/skipped care due to cost, and worries about or problems paying medical bills at age 65. RESULTS Medicare coverage sharply increased from 8.3% at age 64 to 98.2% at age 65, ensuring near-universal insurance coverage (99.5%). Medicare eligibility at age 65 was associated with reductions in delayed/skipped care due to cost (discontinuity, - 5.7 percentage points or pp; 95% CI, - 8.1, - 3.3; P < .001), worries about paying for medical bills (- 7.7 pp; 95% CI, - 12.0, - 3.2; P = .001), and problems paying medical bills (- 3.2 pp; 95% CI, - 6.1, - 0.2; P = .036). However, a sizable proportion reported any access or affordability problems (29.7%) between ages 66 and 80. CONCLUSIONS Near-universal Medicare coverage at age 65 was associated with a reduction-but not elimination-of access and affordability problems among cancer survivors. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS These findings reaffirm the role of Medicare in improving access and affordability for older cancer survivor and highlight opportunities for reforms to further alleviate financial burden of care in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmin Kwon
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, A610 Public Health, 130 De Soto Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Eric T Roberts
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Howard B Degenholtz
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, A610 Public Health, 130 De Soto Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Bruce L Jacobs
- Department of Urology, Division of Health Services Research, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, 3471 Fifth Ave, Suite 801, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Lindsay M Sabik
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, A610 Public Health, 130 De Soto Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
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Sparano F, Giesinger JM, Gaidano G, Anota A, Cavo M, Brini A, Voso MT, Venditti A, Perrone F, Di Maio M, Luppi M, Baron F, Platzbecker U, Fazi P, Vignetti M, Efficace F. Financial Toxicity and Health-Related Quality of Life Profile of Patients With Hematologic Malignancies Treated in a Universal Health Care System. JCO Oncol Pract 2024; 20:438-447. [PMID: 38207239 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the association of financial toxicity (FT) with the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) profile of patients with hematologic malignancies treated in a universal health care system. METHODS We did a secondary analysis of six multicenter studies enrolling patients with hematologic malignancies. FT was evaluated using the financial difficulties item of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess the mean differences in HRQoL scores between patients with or without FT, while adjusting for key potential confounding factors. We also examined the prevalence of clinically important problems and symptoms by the experience of FT, using established thresholds for the EORTC QLQ-C30. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the risk factors associated with FT. RESULTS Overall, 1,847 patients were analyzed, of whom 441 (23.9%) reported FT. We observed statistically and clinically relevant worse scores for patients with FT compared with those without FT for all the EORTC QLQ-C30 scales. The three largest clinically relevant mean differences between patients with and without FT were observed in pain (∆ = 19.6 [95% CI, 15.7 to 23.5]; P < .001), social functioning (∆ = -18.9 [95% CI, -22.5 to -15.2]; P < .001), and role functioning (Δ = -17.7 [95% CI, -22.1 to -13.3]; P < .001). Patients with FT tended to report a higher prevalence of clinically important problems and symptoms across all EORTC QLQ-C30 scales. In the univariable and multivariable analyses, the presence of FT was associated with the presence of comorbidities, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥1, and not receiving a salary. CONCLUSION Patients with hematologic malignancies treated in the setting of a universal health care system who experience FT have a worse HRQoL profile compared with those without FT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sparano
- Data Center and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Haematologic Diseases (GIMEMA), Rome, Italy
| | - Johannes M Giesinger
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gianluca Gaidano
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont and AOU Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Amelie Anota
- Biostatistics Unit, Direction of Clinical Research and Innovation, Human and Social Sciences Department, and French National Platform Quality of Life and Cancer, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Michele Cavo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Istituto di Ematologia "Seràgnoli", Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Brini
- Data Center and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Haematologic Diseases (GIMEMA), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Voso
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Adriano Venditti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Perrone
- Clinical Trial Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Maio
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, University of Torino, Ordine Mauriziano Hospital, Torino, Italy
| | - Mario Luppi
- Section of Hematology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Frederic Baron
- Department of Hematology, University and CHU of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Uwe Platzbecker
- Clinic and Policlinic of Hematology and Cellular Therapy, Oncology and Hemostaseology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Paola Fazi
- Data Center and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Haematologic Diseases (GIMEMA), Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Vignetti
- Data Center and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Haematologic Diseases (GIMEMA), Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Efficace
- Data Center and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Haematologic Diseases (GIMEMA), Rome, Italy
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Wu VS, Shen X, de Moor J, Chino F, Klein J. Financial Toxicity in Radiation Oncology: Impact for Our Patients and for Practicing Radiation Oncologists. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101419. [PMID: 38379894 PMCID: PMC10876607 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2023.101419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
With rising costs of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, financial burdens on patients with cancer and negative effects from high costs, called financial toxicity (FT), are growing. Research suggests that FT may be experienced by more than half of working-age cancer survivors and a similar proportion may incur debt or avoid recommended prescription medications due to treatment costs. As FT can lead to worse physical, psychological, financial, and survival outcomes, there is a discrete need to identify research gaps around this issue that constrain the development and implementation of effective screening and innovative care delivery interventions. Prior research, including within a radiation oncology-specific context, has sought to identify the scope of FT among patients with cancer, develop assessment tools to evaluate patient risk, quantify financial sacrifices, and qualify care compromises that occur when cancer care is unaffordable. FT is a multifactorial problem and potential solutions should be pursued at all levels of the health care system (patient-provider, institutional, and systemic) with specific regard for patients' individual/local contexts. Solutions may include selecting alternative treatment schedules, discussing financial concerns with patients, providing financial navigation services, low-cost transportation options, and system-wide health policy shifts. This review summarizes existing FT research, describes tools developed to measure FT, and suggests areas for intervention and study to help improve FT and outcomes for radiation oncology patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria S. Wu
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Xinglei Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Janet de Moor
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jonathan Klein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Maimonides Medical Center and State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York
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62
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Degu A, Karimi PN, Opanga SA, Nyamu DG. Health-related quality of life among patients with esophageal, gastric, and colorectal cancer at Kenyatta National Hospital. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2038. [PMID: 38507287 PMCID: PMC10953834 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the advancement of modern treatment approaches, several studies indicated a diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. However, there is insufficient data about the HRQoL of gastrointestinal cancer patients in Kenya. AIMS The study aimed to investigate HRQoL and its determinants in gastrointestinal cancer patients at Kenyatta National Hospital. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed among 160 esophageal, 103 gastric, and 96 colorectal cancer patients. The patient list, identified by unique hospital identification numbers, was obtained from records. Eligibility was assessed based on predetermined criteria, and the hospital identification numbers were reshuffled. Study participants were then randomly selected daily during the data collection period. Data were collected using a researcher-administered European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life questionnaire. The data entry and analysis were carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 26.0 statistical software. A bivariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate determinants of HRQoL at a 0.05 level of significance. RESULTS Most esophageal (N = 118, 73.7%), gastric (N = 75, 72.8%), and colorectal (N = 72, 75%) cancer patients had poor overall HRQoL. In the social (p = .04) and cognitive (p = .02) domain of HRQoL, esophageal cancer patients had a significantly lower mean score as compared to gastric cancer patients. Colorectal cancer patients had the highest mean score in physical functioning (p = .01) as compared with gastric cancer patients. Nonetheless, gastric cancer patients had the highest mean score in emotional functioning domains of quality of life as compared to esophageal (p = .04) and colorectal (p < .001) cancer patients The study revealed a low mean HRQoL score in the majority of the symptom domains of quality of life. A statistically significant difference in all domains of HRQoL was not observed in various treatment modalities of gastrointestinal cancer. Advanced-stage (stages III and IV) and co-morbidities were significant determinants of poor HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS The overall HRQoL of gastrointestinal cancer patients was poor. Advanced-stage cancer and co-morbidities were significant determinants of poor HRQoL. Therefore, intensification of routine monitoring of the disease and the treatments should be actively implemented to improve the HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amsalu Degu
- United States International University–Africa, Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy PracticeSchool of Pharmacy and Health SciencesNairobiKenya
- University of Nairobi, Department of PharmacologyClinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practices, Faculty of Health SciencesNairobiKenya
| | - Peter N. Karimi
- University of Nairobi, Department of PharmacologyClinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practices, Faculty of Health SciencesNairobiKenya
| | - Sylvia A. Opanga
- University of Nairobi, Department of PharmacologyClinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practices, Faculty of Health SciencesNairobiKenya
| | - David G. Nyamu
- University of Nairobi, Department of PharmacologyClinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practices, Faculty of Health SciencesNairobiKenya
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Yabroff KR, Sylvia Shi K, Zhao J, Freedman AN, Zheng Z, Nogueira L, Han X, Klabunde CN, de Moor JS. Importance of Patient Health Insurance Coverage and Out-of-Pocket Costs for Genomic Testing in Oncologists' Treatment Decisions. JCO Oncol Pract 2024; 20:429-437. [PMID: 38194620 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Use of genomic testing, especially multimarker panels, is increasing in the United States. Not all tests and related treatments are covered by health insurance, which can result in substantial patient out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. Little is known about oncologists' treatment decisions with respect to patient insurance coverage and OOP costs for genomic testing. METHODS We identified 1,049 oncologists who used multimarker tumor panels from the 2017 National Survey of Precision Medicine in Cancer Treatment. Separate multivariable ordinal logistic regressions examined associations of oncologist-, practice-, and area-level characteristics and oncologists' ratings of importance (very, somewhat, or a little/not important) of insurance coverage and OOP costs for genomic testing in treatment decisions, adjusting for oncologist years of experience, sex, race and ethnicity, specialty, use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) tests, region, tumor boards, patient insurance mix, and area-level socioeconomic characteristics. RESULTS Among oncologists, 47.3%, 32.7%, and 20.0% reported that patient insurance coverage for genomic testing was very, somewhat, or a little/not important, respectively, in treatment decisions. In addition, 56.9%, 28.0%, and 15.2% reported that OOP costs for testing were very, somewhat, or a little/not important, respectively. In adjusted analyses, oncologists who used NGS tests were more likely to report patient insurance and OOP costs as important (odds ratio [OR], 2.00 [95% CI, 1.16 to 3.45] and OR, 2.12 [95% CI, 1.22 to 3.68], respectively) in treatment decisions compared with oncologists who did not use these tests, as were oncologists who treated solid tumors, rather than only hematological cancers. More years of experience and higher percentages of Medicaid or self-paid/uninsured patients in the practice were associated with reporting insurance coverage (OR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.09 to 1.89]) and OOP costs (OR, 1.51 [95% CI, 1.13 to 2.01]) as important. Oncologists in practices with molecular tumor boards for genomic tests were less likely to report coverage (OR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.47 to 0.85]) and OOP costs (OR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.53 to 0.97]) as important than their counterparts in practices without these tumor boards. CONCLUSION Most oncologists rate patient health insurance and OOP costs for genomic tests as important considerations in subsequent treatment recommendations. Modifiable factors associated with these ratings can inform interventions to support patient-physician decision making about care.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Robin Yabroff
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Kewei Sylvia Shi
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Jingxuan Zhao
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Andrew N Freedman
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Zhiyuan Zheng
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Leticia Nogueira
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Xuesong Han
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
| | - Carrie N Klabunde
- Office of Disease Prevention, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD
| | - Janet S de Moor
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
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Alacevich C, Abi Nehme AM, Lee JH, Li D, Mobley EM, Close JL, George TJ, LeLaurin JH, Hong YR, Shenkman EA, Gutter MS, Salloum RG. A point-of-care pilot randomized intervention to connect patients with cancer-induced financial toxicity to telehealth financial counseling. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:393-403. [PMID: 37794203 PMCID: PMC10872295 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01794-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Elevated costs of cancer treatment can result in economic and psychological "financial toxicity" distress. This pilot study assessed the feasibility of a point-of-care intervention to connect adult patients with cancer-induced financial toxicity to telehealth-delivered financial counseling. METHODS We conducted a three-armed parallel randomized pilot study, allocating newly referred patients with cancer and financial toxicity to individual, group accredited telehealth financial counseling, or usual care with educational material (1:1:1). We assessed the feasibility of recruitment, randomization, retention, baseline and post-intervention COmprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST), and Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) scores. RESULTS Of 382 patients screened, 121 were eligible and enrolled. 58 (48%) completed the intervention (9 individual, 9 group counseling, 40 educational booklet). 29 completed follow-up surveys: 45% female, 17% African American, 79% white, 7% Hispanic, 55% 45-64 years old, 31% over 64, 34% lived in rural areas, 24% had cancer stage I, 21% II, 7% III, 31% IV. Baseline characteristics were balanced across arms, retention status, surveys completion. Mean (SD) COST was 12.4 (6.1) at baseline and 16.0 (8.4) post-intervention. Mean (SD) COST score differences were 6.3 (11.6) after individual counseling, 5.8 (8.5) after group counseling, and 2.5 (6.4) after usual care. Mean TUQ score among nine counseling participants was 5.5 (0.9) over 7.0. Non-parametric comparisons were not statistically meaningful. CONCLUSION Recruitment and randomization were feasible, while study retention presented challenges. Nine participants reported good usability and satisfaction with telehealth counseling. Larger-scale trials focused on improving participation, retention, and impact of financial counseling among patients with cancer are justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Alacevich
- Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
| | - Anna Maria Abi Nehme
- Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Ji-Hyun Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
- Division of Quantitative Sciences, University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, USA
| | - Derek Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
- Division of Quantitative Sciences, University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, USA
| | - Erin M Mobley
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Julia L Close
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Thomas J George
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Jennifer H LeLaurin
- Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Young-Rock Hong
- Health Services Research, Management and Policy, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Shenkman
- Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Michael S Gutter
- Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
- Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, USA
| | - Ramzi G Salloum
- Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
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Ciftci Y, Radomski SN, Johnston FM, Greer JB. Predictors of Financial Toxicity Risk Among Patients Undergoing Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC). Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:1980-1989. [PMID: 38044348 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14577-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is the preferred treatment for select patients with peritoneal malignancies. However, the procedure is resource intensive and costly. This study aimed to determine the risk of financial toxicity for patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC at a single institution from 2016 to 2022. We utilized insurance status, out-of-pocket expenditures, and estimated post-subsistence income to determine risk of financial toxicity. A multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for financial toxicity. RESULTS Our final study cohort consisted of 163 patients. Average age was 58 [standard deviation 10] years, and 52.8% (n = 86) were male. A total of 52 patients (31.9%) were at risk of financial toxicity. A total of 36 patients (22.1%) were from the lower income quartiles (first or second) and 127 patients (77.9%) were from the higher income quartiles (third or fourth). A total of 47 patients (29%) were insured by Medicare, and 116 patients (71%) had private insurance. The median out-of-pocket expenditure across the study cohort was $3500, with a median of $5000 ($3341-$7350) for the at-risk group and $3341 ($2500-$4022) for the not at-risk group (p < 0.001). Risk factors for financial toxicity included high out-of-pocket expenditures and a lower income quartile. CONCLUSIONS An estimated one-third of patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC at our institution were at risk for financial toxicity. Several preoperative factors were associated with an increased risk and could be utilized to identify patients who might benefit from interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ciftci
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shannon N Radomski
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fabian M Johnston
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jonathan B Greer
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Li L, Zhang D, Li Y, Jain M, Lin X, Hu R, Liu J, Thapa J, Mu L, Chen Z, Liu B, Pagán JA. Medical financial hardship between young adult cancer survivors and matched individuals without cancer in the United States. JNCI Cancer Spectr 2024; 8:pkae007. [PMID: 38366027 PMCID: PMC10903972 DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkae007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adult cancer survivors face medical financial hardships that may lead to delaying or forgoing medical care. This study describes the medical financial difficulties young adult cancer survivors in the United States experience in the post-Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act period. METHOD We identified 1009 cancer survivors aged 18 to 39 years from the National Health Interview Survey (2015-2022) and matched 963 (95%) cancer survivors to 2733 control individuals using nearest-neighbor matching. We used conditional logistic regression to examine the association between cancer history and medical financial hardship and to assess whether this association varied by age, sex, race and ethnicity, and region of residence. RESULTS Compared with those who did not have a history of cancer, young adult cancer survivors were more likely to report material financial hardship (22.8% vs 15.2%; odds ratio = 1.65, 95% confidence interval = 1.50 to 1.81) and behavior-related financial hardship (34.3% vs 24.4%; odds ratio = 1.62, 95% confidence interval = 1.49 to 1.76) but not psychological financial hardship (52.6% vs 50.9%; odds ratio = 1.07, 95% confidence interval = 0.99 to 1.16). Young adult cancer survivors who were Hispanic or lived in the Midwest and South were more likely to report psychological financial hardship than their counterparts. CONCLUSIONS We found that young adult cancer survivors were more likely to experience material and behavior-related financial hardship than young adults without a history of cancer. We also identified specific subgroups of young adult cancer survivors that may benefit from targeted policies and interventions to alleviate medical financial hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Li
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Health Care Delivery Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Donglan Zhang
- Division of Health Services Research, Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mayuri Jain
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Health Care Delivery Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xingyu Lin
- Department of Statistical and Actuarial Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Hu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Junxiu Liu
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Janani Thapa
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Lan Mu
- Department of Geography, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Bian Liu
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Translational Epidemiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - José A Pagán
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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Cayrol J, Wakefield CE, Ilbawi A, Donoghoe M, Hoffman R, Echodu M, Schilstra C, Ortiz R, Wiener L. The lived experience of people affected by cancer: A global cross-sectional survey protocol. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294492. [PMID: 38394101 PMCID: PMC10889872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A diagnosis of cancer impacts the person's physical and mental health and the psychosocial and financial health of their caregivers. While data on the experience of living with cancer is available, there is a dearth of data from persons in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The perspectives of other impacted individuals also remain understudied (e.g., bereaved family members), as well as the impact on survivors and their families over time. The objective of this study is to describe the psychosocial and financial impact of cancer on people diagnosed with cancer as a child, adolescent or adult, their families/caregivers, and the family members of those who have died from cancer, in high-income countries (HICs) and LMICs. This study is an observational, descriptive, quantitative study. Data will be collected anonymously via a digital online cross-sectional survey distributed globally by the World Health Organization (WHO) via the LimeSurvey software. Participants will include (a) adults aged 18+ who have been diagnosed with cancer at any age, who are currently undergoing cancer treatment or who have completed cancer treatment; (b) adult family members of individuals of any age with a cancer diagnosis, who are currently undergoing cancer treatment or who have completed cancer treatment; and (c) bereaved family members. Participants will be anonymously recruited via convenience and snowball sampling through networks of organisations related to cancer. Survey results will be analysed quantitatively per respondent group, per time from diagnosis, per disease and country. Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and at scientific conferences; a summary of results will be available on the WHO website. This study will suggest public health interventions and policy responses to support people affected by cancer and may also lead to subsequent research focusing on the needs of people affected by cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Cayrol
- The Royal Children’s Hospital and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- World Health Organization, Department of Non-Communicable Diseases, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Claire E. Wakefield
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, NSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - André Ilbawi
- World Health Organization, Department of Non-Communicable Diseases, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mark Donoghoe
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Stats Central, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW Sydney, NSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Ruth Hoffman
- American Childhood Cancer Organization, Beltsville, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Clarissa Schilstra
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, UNSW Sydney, NSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Roberta Ortiz
- World Health Organization, Department of Non-Communicable Diseases, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lori Wiener
- National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Salazar MM, Khera N, Chino F, Johnston E. Financial hardship for patients with cancer and caregivers at end of life in the USA: narrative review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:25-35. [PMID: 38123962 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients and their families face financial hardship during cancer treatment, which may intensify at end of life (EOL) due to increased symptoms and care needs. We undertook a narrative literature review to describe the current understanding of the causes, impacts and factors associated with financial hardship at EOL. We identify gaps in research, policy and clinical practice and propose steps to mitigate financial hardship for patients and caregivers at EOL. METHODS We conducted a Medline search to identify US studies since 2000 that examined EOL financial hardship for patients with cancer and their caregivers. RESULTS Twenty-seven adult and four paediatric studies met review criteria. Adults with cancer and their caregivers face significant financial hardship at EOL and in bereavement, especially due to employment changes and informal caregiving time costs. Financial hardship may be higher for younger caregivers and for patients who are uninsured, low income, rural, with high symptom burdens or with certain cancer types. The few paediatric studies showed high financial hardship and employment impact lasting well beyond a child's death. CONCLUSIONS There is limited literature examining financial hardship at EOL in the USA, especially in paediatrics. Priorities for future research include longitudinal studies in diverse populations of patients with cancer and informal caregivers using standardised financial hardship measures. Policies to address financial hardship at EOL, especially with hospice care, should include insurance coverage for family caregiving and medical leave policies. There is need for increased financial hardship screening at EOL and in bereavement and a need for financial navigation interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Martinez Salazar
- School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine-Scottsdale Campus, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - Nandita Khera
- Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emily Johnston
- Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Kaddas HK, Millar MM, Herget KA, Carter ME, Ofori-Atta BS, Edwards SL, Codden RR, Sweeney C, Kirchhoff AC. Material financial hardship and insurance-related experiences among Utah's rural and urban cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01546-x. [PMID: 38340250 PMCID: PMC11315807 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01546-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Describe material financial hardship (e.g., using savings, credit card debt), insurance, and access to care experienced by Utah cancer survivors; investigate urban-rural differences in financial hardship. METHODS Cancer survivors were surveyed from 2018 to 2021 about their experiences with financial hardship, access to healthcare, and job lock (insurance preventing employment changes). Weighed percentage responses, univariable and multivariable logistic regression models for these outcomes compared differences in survivors living in rural and urban areas based on Rural-Urban Commuting Area Codes. RESULTS The N = 1793 participants were predominantly Non-Hispanic White, female, and 65 or older at time of survey. More urban than rural survivors had a college degree (39.8% vs. 31.0%, p = 0.04). Overall, 35% of survivors experienced ≥ 1 financial hardship. In adjusted analyses, no differences were observed between urban and rural survivors for: material financial hardship, the overall amount of hardship reported, insurance status at survey, access to healthcare, or job lock. Hispanic rural survivors were less likely to report financial hardship than Hispanic urban survivors (odds ratio (OR) = 0.24, 95%CI = 0.08-0.73)). Rural survivors who received chemo/immune therapy as their only treatment were more likely to report at least one instance of financial hardship than urban survivors (OR = 2.72, 95%CI = 1.08-6.86). CONCLUSIONS The relationship between rurality and financial hardship among survivors may be most burdensome for patients whose treatments require travel or specialty medication access. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The impact of living rurally on financial difficulties after cancer diagnoses is complex. Features of rurality that may alter financial difficulty after a cancer diagnosis may vary geographically and instead of considering rurality as a stand-alone factor, these features should be investigated independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heydon K Kaddas
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA.
| | - Morgan M Millar
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Utah Cancer Registry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sandra L Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Rachel R Codden
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Utah Cancer Registry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Carol Sweeney
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Utah Cancer Registry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Anne C Kirchhoff
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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70
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Boman SE, Fuentes S, Nordenvall C, Martling A, Chen L, Glimelius I, Neovius M, Smedby KE, Eloranta S. Long-term prescribed drug use in stage I-III rectal cancer patients in Sweden, with a focus on bowel-regulating drugs after surgical and oncological treatment. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01548-9. [PMID: 38316727 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe long-term prescribed drug use after rectal cancer treatment. METHODS We identified 12,871 rectal cancer patients without distant metastasis between 2005 and 2016 and 64,341 matched population comparators using CRCBaSe (a Swedish nationwide register linkage of colorectal cancer patients). Mean defined daily doses (DDDs) of drug dispensing during relapse-free follow-up were calculated by Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical drug categories. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from negative binomial regression were used to compare drug dispensing between patients and comparators. RESULTS The overall pattern of drug dispensing was similar among cancer survivors and comparators, although patients had higher mean DDDs of drugs regulating the digestive system. Excess dispensing of drugs for constipation (IRR, 3.35; 95% CI, 3.12-3.61), diarrhea (IRR, 6.43; 95% CI, 5.72-7.22), functional gastrointestinal disorders (IRR, 3.78; 95% CI, 3.15-4.54), and vitamin and mineral supplements (IRR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.24-1.50) was observed up to 10 years after surgery. Treatment with Hartmann's procedure was associated with higher dispensing rates of digestive drugs compared to surgery with anterior resection and abdominoperineal resection but the association was attributed to higher use of diabetic drugs. Additionally, excess digestive drug dispensing was associated with more advanced cancer stage but not with (chemo)radiotherapy treatment. CONCLUSIONS Excess drug use after rectal cancer is primarily driven by bowel-regulating drugs and is not modified by surgical or oncological treatment. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The excess use of bowel-regulating drugs after rectal cancer indicated long-standing postsurgical gastrointestinal morbidity and need of prophylaxis. Reassuringly, no excess use of other drug classes was noted long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sol Erika Boman
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stina Fuentes
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Caroline Nordenvall
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Martling
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lingjing Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Medical Unit Gastroenterology, Dermatovenereology and Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Glimelius
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Cancer Precision Medicine, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martin Neovius
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin E Smedby
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Eloranta
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Waters AR, Easterly CW, Turner C, Ghazal L, Tovar I, Mulvaney M, Poquadeck M, Rains SA, Cloyes KG, Kirchhoff AC, Kent EE, Warner EL. LGBTQ+ inequity in crowdfunding cancer costs: The influence of online reach and LGBTQ+ state policy. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6926. [PMID: 38275010 PMCID: PMC10905337 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging literature suggests that LGBTQ+ cancer survivors are more likely to experience financial burden than non-LGBTQ+ survivors. However, LGBTQ+ cancer survivors experience with cost-coping behaviors such as crowdfunding is understudied. METHODS We aimed to assess LGBTQ+ inequity in cancer crowdfunding by combining community-engaged and technology-based methods. Crowdfunding campaigns were web-scraped from GoFundMe and classified as cancer-related and LGBTQ+ or non-LGBTQ+ using term dictionaries. Bivariate analyses and generalized linear models were used to assess differential effects in total goal amount raised by LGBTQ+ status. Stratified models were run by online reach and LGBTQ+ inclusivity of state policy. RESULTS A total of N = 188,342 active cancer-related crowdfunding campaigns were web-scraped from GoFundMe in November 2022, of which N = 535 were LGBTQ+ and ranged from 2014 to 2022. In multivariable models of recent campaigns (2019-2022), LGBTQ+ campaigns raised $1608 (95% CI: -2139, -1077) less than non-LGBTQ+ campaigns. LGBTQ+ campaigns with low (26-45 donors), moderate (46-87 donors), and high (88-240 donors) online reach raised on average $1152 (95% CI: -$1589, -$716), $1050 (95% CI: -$1737, -$364), and $2655 (95% CI: -$4312, -$998) less than non-LGBTQ+ campaigns respectively. When stratified by LGBTQ+ inclusivity of state level policy states with anti-LGBTQ+ policy/lacking equitable policy raised on average $1910 (95% CI: -2640, -1182) less than non-LGBTQ+ campaigns from the same states. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Our findings revealed LGBTQ+ inequity in cancer-related crowdfunding, suggesting that LGBTQ+ cancer survivors may be less able to address financial burden via crowdfunding in comparison to non-LGBTQ+ cancer survivors-potentially widening existing economic inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin R. Waters
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Cancer Control and Population SciencesHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Caleb W. Easterly
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Cindy Turner
- College of NursingUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Lauren Ghazal
- Crowdfunding Cancer Costs (C3) LGBTQ+ Study Advisory BoardHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- School of NursingUniversity of RochesterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Ida Tovar
- College of NursingUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Megan Mulvaney
- Crowdfunding Cancer Costs (C3) LGBTQ+ Study Advisory BoardHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- School of Public HealthIndiana University BloomingtonBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Matt Poquadeck
- Crowdfunding Cancer Costs (C3) LGBTQ+ Study Advisory BoardHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- Wilmot Cancer InstituteUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Stephen A. Rains
- Department of CommunicationUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | - Kristin G. Cloyes
- School of NursingOregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Anne C. Kirchhoff
- Cancer Control and Population SciencesHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Erin E. Kent
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Echo L. Warner
- Cancer Control and Population SciencesHuntsman Cancer Institute at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- College of NursingUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
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Tan KR, Meernik C, Anderson C, Deal AM, Engel S, Getahun D, Kent EE, Kirchhoff AC, Kwan ML, Mitra S, Park EM, Smitherman A, Chao CR, Kushi L, Nichols HB. Caring for Children in Relation to Financial Hardship, Advance Care Planning, and Genetic Testing Among Adolescent and Young Adults with Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:147-155. [PMID: 37262185 PMCID: PMC10890964 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: When a cancer diagnosis coincides with caring for children, it may influence the financial impacts of cancer and decisions to pursue advance care planning (ACP) or genetic testing. We examined associations between caring for children and financial hardship, ACP, and genetic testing among female adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors in North Carolina and California. Methods: Participants were diagnosed at ages 15-39 years with breast, melanoma, gynecologic, lymphoma, or thyroid cancer during 2004-2016. We estimated adjusted prevalence differences (aPDs) and ratios (aPRs) for each outcome by child caring status using marginal structural binomial regression models. Results: Among 1595 women ages 19-54 years at survey (median = 7 years since diagnosis), 819 (51.3%) reported that they were caring for children at diagnosis. Women caring for children had a higher prevalence of material financial hardship (e.g., medical debt; 30% vs. 21.9%; aPD = 9%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3 to 14; aPR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.72) but similar levels of psychological financial hardship compared to noncaregivers. Women caring for children were more likely to complete ACPs (42.2% vs. 30.7%; aPD = 9%, 95% CI: 3 to 16; aPR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.57). Among the 723 survivors of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer, the prevalence of genetic testing was higher among women caring for children (89%) than noncaregivers (81%); this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Women caring for children at diagnosis may be at elevated risk for adverse financial outcomes and may benefit from additional financial navigation support. Childcare responsibilities may further complicate health decision-making for AYAs diagnosed with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly R. Tan
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Clare Meernik
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chelsea Anderson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Allison M. Deal
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stephanie Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Darios Getahun
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California, USA
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Erin E. Kent
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anne C. Kirchhoff
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences Research Program, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Marilyn L. Kwan
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Sara Mitra
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eliza M. Park
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew Smitherman
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chun R. Chao
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Lawrence Kushi
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Hazel B. Nichols
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Nogueira L, Florez N. The Impact of Climate Change on Global Oncology. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2024; 38:105-121. [PMID: 37580192 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is the greatest threat to human health of our time, with significant implications for global cancer control efforts. The changing frequency and behavior of climate-driven extreme weather events results in more frequent and increasingly unanticipated disruptions in access to cancer care. Given the significant threat that climate change poses to cancer control efforts, oncology professionals should champion initiatives that help protect the health and safety of patients with cancer, such as enhancing emergency preparedness and response efforts and reducing emissions from our own professional activities, which has health cobenefits for the entire population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Nogueira
- Surveillance and Health Equity Sciences, American Cancer Society, Palm Harbor, FL, USA.
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Raggini E, Mattavelli D, Zigliani G, Bossi P, Piazza C. Measuring financial toxicity in head and neck cancer: a systematic review. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA : ORGANO UFFICIALE DELLA SOCIETA ITALIANA DI OTORINOLARINGOLOGIA E CHIRURGIA CERVICO-FACCIALE 2024; 44:1-12. [PMID: 38420716 PMCID: PMC10914354 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-n2762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Objective The current study systematically reviews the literature about financial toxicity (FT) in head and neck cancer patients. Three databases were reviewed: PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Methods Full text English papers published from 2000 to 2022 reporting on quantitative results about FT in head and neck cancer survivors collected through structured questionnaires or interviews were included. Results Twenty-seven articles were included. Most of the articles were published after 2015 and from United States. There was a slight prevalence of papers dealing with oropharyngeal cancer, squamous-cell carcinoma and locally advanced head and neck cancer. Measures of FT were obtained through validated questionnaires like COST, FIT and FDQ. Collected data were mostly referrable to financial spending, financial resources, psychosocial aspect, support seeking, coping care and coping lifestyle subdomain. FT scores by COST were found to be worse in the COVID era. Financial counseling and adequate information about the costs of treatment were two effective strategies to mitigate FT. Conclusions FT is a relatively new challenge in head and neck cancer treatment, whose expenses are higher than therapies for other cancers. A universal method to assess FT and a unified guideline for the administration of questionnaires are needed to mitigate FT and to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Raggini
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, School of Medicine, Brescia, Italy
| | - Davide Mattavelli
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, School of Medicine, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Zigliani
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Bossi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Cesare Piazza
- Unit of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, School of Medicine, Brescia, Italy
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Wang S, Wang J, Kang H, Zeng L, Liu G, Qiu Y, Wei M. Assessment of the prevalence and related factors of financial toxicity in cancer patients based on the COST scale: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 68:102489. [PMID: 38118267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The high cost of cancer treatment exposes patients to financial toxicity during treatment; however, no study has comprehensively analyzed the incidence of financial toxicity using a validated assessment tool. In this study, the objective was to ascertain the incidence of financial toxicity in cancer patients and the factors influencing it. METHODS Nine electronic databases were retrieved to collect cross-sectional studies reporting financial toxicity in cancer patients. A random effects meta-analysis was applied to yield the overall prevalence of financial toxicity. Subgroup analyses were conducted depending on the factors affecting financial toxicity. RESULTS In total, 30 studies met our inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of financial toxicity in cancer patients was 48% (95%CI:38%-58%, I2 = 99.4%, p < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, a higher prevalence of financial toxicity in patients aged <67 years (47%, 95%CI: 28%-66%, I2 = 97.5%, p < 0.001), female (46%, 95%CI:39%-53%, I2 = 94.9%,p < 0.001), lung cancer(57%, 95%CI:38%-75%, I2 = 96.9%, p < 0.001), developing countries (64%, 95%CI:55%-72%, I2 = 98.1%, p < 0.001), time of investigation following COVID-19 (53%, 95%CI:37%-69%, I2 = 99.4%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Financial toxicity is prevalent in cancer patients and is increasingly evident after COVID-19. Furthermore, the odds of financial toxicity are higher in patients who are female, younger, whose cancer type is lung cancer, and from developing countries. These findings emphasize the significance of evaluating financial toxicity in cancer patients after COVID-19, especially in developing countries. This may play a pivotal role in helping patients cope with financial toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuping Wang
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
| | - Jialin Wang
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
| | - Hua Kang
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
| | - Li Zeng
- Sichuan Nursing Vocational College, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, China.
| | - Guiling Liu
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
| | - Yinong Qiu
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
| | - Meng Wei
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.1166 Liutai Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan province, 611137, China.
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Yamamoto S, Nakagoshi H, Kondoh C, Iwagami Y, Katayama M, Fukae A, Kakumen M, Kodani N, Kumagai A, Higashide C, Mizuta C, Oyamada S, Arao H. Relationship between nurses' perceptions and financial toxicity management in the public health insurance system. Future Oncol 2024; 20:269-282. [PMID: 38440864 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-1029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims: To describe nursing practices for financial toxicity management based on nurses' perceptions. Materials & methods: A survey was conducted with 615 oncology nurses in Japan, focusing on nurses' perspectives on the importance of financial toxicity, nursing practices to manage financial toxicity and factors inhibiting its management. Results: A total of 521 participated, of whom 266 respondents (51.1%) considered nurses' role important, and they engaged in a significantly higher proportion of nursing practices. Participants with greater perceptions of their role included certified or specialized nurses and nurses responsible for outpatient care. Conclusion: Interventions leveraging the expertise of certified or specialized nurses and nurses involved in outpatient care could help to spread proactive nurse practices addressing financial toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sena Yamamoto
- Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-7 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hideko Nakagoshi
- Nursing Department, Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Amagasaki, Hyogo, Japan
| | | | - Yuichi Iwagami
- Social Welfare Organization Saiseikai Imperial Gift, Foundation, Inc. Osaka Saiseikai Senri Hospital, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Ai Fukae
- Hakuaikai Sagara Hospital, Kagoshima, Kagoshima, Japan
| | | | - Naoko Kodani
- National Hospital Organization, Yonago Medical Center, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
| | | | | | - Chiharu Mizuta
- Nursing Department, Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Amagasaki, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Oyamada
- Department of Biostatistics, JORTC Data Center, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Harue Arao
- Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-7 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Biddell CB, Spees LP, Trogdon JG, Kent EE, Rosenstein DL, Angove RS, Rogers CD, Wheeler SB. Economic Evaluation of a Nonmedical Financial Assistance Program on Missed Treatment Appointments Among Adults With Cancer. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:300-311. [PMID: 37897261 PMCID: PMC10824376 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.00993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We retrospectively evaluated the clinical and economic impact of a program providing nonmedical financial assistance on missed treatment appointments among patients receiving cancer treatment at a large, Southeastern public hospital system. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used patient electronic health records, program records, and cancer registry data to examine the impact of the program on rates of missed (or no-show) radiation therapy and infusion chemotherapy/immunotherapy appointments in the 180 days after treatment initiation. We used propensity weighting to estimate the effect of the program, stratified by treatment appointment type (radiation therapy, infusion chemotherapy/immunotherapy). We developed a decision tree-based economic model to conduct a cost-consequence analysis from the health system perspective in a hypothetical cohort over a 6-month time horizon. RESULTS Of 1,347 patients receiving radiation therapy between 2015 and 2019, 53% (n = 715) had ≥1 no-shows and 28% (n = 378) received program assistance. Receipt of any assistance was associated with a 2.1 percentage point (95% CI, 0.6 to 3.5) decrease in the proportion of no-shows, corresponding to a 51% decrease in the overall mean no-show proportion. Under the current funding model, the program is estimated to save the health system $153 in US dollars per missed appointment averted, relative to not providing nonmedical financial assistance. Of the 1,641 patients receiving infusion chemotherapy/immunotherapy, 33% (n = 541) received program assistance, and only 14% (n = 223) had ≥1 no-shows. The financial assistance program did not have a significant effect on no-show proportions among infusion visits. CONCLUSION This study used a novel approach to retrospectively evaluate a nonmedical financial assistance program for patients undergoing active cancer treatment. Findings support investment in programs that address patients' nonmedical financial needs, particularly for those undergoing intensive radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin B. Biddell
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Lisa P. Spees
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Justin G. Trogdon
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Erin E. Kent
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Donald L. Rosenstein
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
- Department of Psychiatry, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | | | | - Stephanie B. Wheeler
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
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Zhang H, Hu J, Meng R, Liu F, Xu F, Huang M. A systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the diagnostic capability of automated breast ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1305545. [PMID: 38264749 PMCID: PMC10803446 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1305545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the diagnostic performance of automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in breast cancer. Methods Published studies were collected by systematically searching the databases PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. The sensitivities, specificities, likelihood ratios and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were confirmed. The symmetric receiver operator characteristic curve (SROC) was used to assess the threshold of ABUS and CEUS. Fagan's nomogram was drawn. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses were applied to search for sources of heterogeneity among the included studies. Results A total of 16 studies were included, comprising 4115 participants. The combined sensitivity of ABUS was 0.88 [95% CI (0.73-0.95)], specificity was 0.93 [95% CI (0.82-0.97)], area under the SROC curve (AUC) was 0.96 [95% CI (0.94-0.96)] and DOR was 89. The combined sensitivity of CEUS was 0.88 [95% CI (0.84-0.91)], specificity was 0.76 [95% CI (0.66-0.84)], AUC was 0.89 [95% CI (0.86-0.92)] and DOR was 24. The Deeks' funnel plot showed no existing publication bias. The prospective design, partial verification bias and blinding contributed to the heterogeneity in specificity, while no sources contributed to the heterogeneity in sensitivity. The post-test probability of ABUS in BC was 75%, and the post-test probability of CEUS in breast cancer was 48%. Conclusion Compared with CEUS, ABUS showed higher specificity and DOR for detecting breast cancer. ABUS is expected to further improve the accuracy of BC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Zhang
- Department of Clinic Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingyi Hu
- Department of Clinic Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Rong Meng
- Department of Public Health, Chengdu Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Fangfang Liu
- Art College, Southwest Minzu University, Sichuan, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Public Health, Chengdu Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Sichuan, China
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79
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Jiang X, Sun J, Song R, Wang Y, Li J, Shi R. Acceptance and commitment therapy reduces psychological distress in patients with cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1253266. [PMID: 38250124 PMCID: PMC10796538 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1253266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the clinical efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in patients with cancer and psychological distress. Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from seven English electronic databases were systematically investigated from inception to 3 October 2023. A total of 16 RCTs from 6 countries with 711 participants were included in this study. Estimated pooled effect sizes (ESs) were calculated via inverse-variance random-effects or fixed-effects (I2 ≤ 50%) model and presented by standardized mean difference (SMD). Subgroup analyses were performed to reduce confounding factors and heterogeneity, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was used to evaluate the quality of the pooled ESs. Results The pooled ESs revealed that statistically significant improvements in anxiety [postintervention SMD = -0.41 (95% confidence interval (CI), -0.71, -0.11); p = 0.008; I2 = 65%; follow-up SMD = -0.37 (95% CI, -0.66, -0.08); p = 0.01; I2 = 29%], depression [postintervention SMD = -0.45 (95% CI, -0.63, -0.27); p < 0.001; I2 = 49%; follow-up SMD = -0.52 (95% CI, -0.77, -0.28); p < 0.001; I2 = 0%], and psychological flexibility [postintervention SMD = -0.81 (95% CI, -1.50, -0.11); p = 0.02; I2 = 84%; follow-up SMD = -0.71 (95% CI, -1.12, -0.31); p = 0.0006; I2 = 38%] in ACT-treated participants were observed compared to patients treated with control conditions. However, other outcomes, such as physical symptom alleviation, were not significantly associated. Conclusion The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that ACT is associated with improvements in anxiety, depression, and psychological flexibility in patients with cancer. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022320515.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Jiang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Sun
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruiwen Song
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinglian Li
- School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Rongwei Shi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Abujaradeh H, Mazanec SR, Sereika SM, Connolly MC, Bender CM, Gordon BB, Rosenzweig M. Economic Hardship and Associated Factors of Women With Early-Stage Breast Cancer Prior to Chemotherapy Initiation. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:36-44. [PMID: 37852896 PMCID: PMC10841408 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Economic hardship (EH) can negatively influence cancer outcomes. Little is known about the factors that are associated with higher levels of EH among patients with breast cancer (BC). This paper describes EH in women with early-stage BC prior to or at their first chemotherapy treatment (baseline) and explores whether there are differences by race, area deprivation, stress, symptom distress, and social support. PATIENTS AND METHODS A descriptive comparative/correlational design was employed using baseline data of a multisite, longitudinal, multimethod study comparing the symptom experience and management prior to prescribed chemotherapy for women with early-stage BC. Participants completed measures for EH, perceived stress, symptom distress, and social support. Race was measured by self-report. Area deprivation indices (ADI) measuring neighborhood economic factors were calculated from publicly available websites. RESULTS Participants (N = 248; age = 52.9 ± 12.3 years) were 62% White and 38% Black, 54% partnered, and 98% insured. Compared to White patients, Black patients reported higher (worse) EH (1.2 ± 3.0 vs. -0.7 ± 2.4), lived in areas of greater deprivation (80.1 ± 2.1 vs. 50.5 ± 23.5),and were more likely to report inadequate household income (Black: 30.5%; White: 11.1%). Adjusting for race and age, being Black (P< .001), living in an area of greater deprivation (P = .049), higher perceived stress (P = .008), lower perceived appraisal (P = .040), and less tangible support (P < .001) contributed to greater EH. Worse symptom distress trended toward greater EH (P = .07). CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating baseline holistic assessment to identify patients most likely to experience EH during early-stage BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Abujaradeh
- University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Susan R Mazanec
- Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Susan M Sereika
- University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mary C Connolly
- University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Robert R, Andersen CR, Murphy KM, Granger TA, Scardaville MC, Medina-George SA, Nguyen V, Frieden LM. Factors contributing to financial distress in young adults with cancer: Material resources, health, and workplace. Work 2024; 77:197-209. [PMID: 37638461 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial distress is a primary concern for young adults with cancer. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify material resources, physical and psychological health, and workplace variables that are associated with financial distress in young adult cancer survivors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Cancer Survivor Employment Needs Survey. Participants were young adults (18-39 years of age) who lived in the United States and had a cancer diagnosis. Multivariable linear regression was used to model relations between financial distress and material resources, physical and psychological health, and workplace variables. RESULTS Participants (N = 214) were mostly non-Hispanic White (78%), female (79%), and had a mean age of 31 years and 4.6 years post-diagnosis. Material resources, physical and psychological health, and workplace variables were all identified as contributing to study participants' financial distress. Among the young adults surveyed, financial distress was prevalent, and an array of problems were associated with financial distress. CONCLUSION Oncology and rehabilitation providers should openly discuss finances with YAs with cancer and guide them to resources that can address their financial, benefits, and vocational needs to ultimately improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhonda Robert
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Clark R Andersen
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Teresa A Granger
- Department of Educational Studies in Psychology, Research Methodology, and Counseling, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | | | | | - Vinh Nguyen
- Texas Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Memorial Hermann, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lex M Frieden
- Texas Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Memorial Hermann, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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82
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Miller MF, Olson JS, Doughtie K, Zaleta AK, Rogers KP. The interplay of financial toxicity, health care team communication, and psychosocial well-being among rural cancer patients and survivors. J Rural Health 2024; 40:128-137. [PMID: 37449966 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial toxicity contributes to psychosocial distress among cancer patients and survivors. Yet, contextual factors unique to rural settings affect patient experiences, and a deeper understanding is needed of the interplay between financial toxicity and health care team communication and its association with psychosocial well-being among rural oncology patients. PURPOSE We examined associations between financial toxicity and psychosocial well-being among rural cancer patients, exploring variability in these linkages by health care team communication. METHODS Using data from 273 rural cancer patients who participated in Cancer Support Community's Cancer Experience Registry, we estimated multivariable regression models predicting depression, anxiety, and social function by financial toxicity, health care team communication, and the interplay between them. RESULTS We demonstrate robust associations between financial toxicity and psychosocial outcomes among our sample of rural cancer patients and survivors. As financial toxicity increased, symptoms of depression and anxiety increased. Further, financial toxicity was linked with decreasing social function. Having health care team conversations about treatment costs and distress-related care reduced the negative impact of financial toxicity on depressive symptoms and social function, respectively, in rural cancer patients at greatest risk for financial burden. CONCLUSIONS Financial toxicity and psychosocial well-being are strongly linked, and these associations were confirmed in a rural sample. A theorized buffer to the detrimental impacts of financial toxicity-health care team communication-played a role in moderating these associations. Our findings suggest that health care providers in rural oncology settings may benefit from tools and resources to bolster communication with patients about costs, financial distress, and coordination of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa F Miller
- Cancer Support Community, Research and Training Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Julie S Olson
- Cancer Support Community, Research and Training Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kara Doughtie
- Cancer Support Community, Research and Training Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alexandra K Zaleta
- Cancer Support Community, Research and Training Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kimberly P Rogers
- Cancer Support Community, Research and Training Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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83
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Montiel C, Bedrossian N, Myre A, Kramer A, Piché A, Mcdonough MH, Sabiston CM, Petrella A, Gauvin L, Doré I. "In My Mind, It Was Just Temporary": A Qualitative Study of the Impacts of Cancer on Men and Their Strategies to Cope. Am J Mens Health 2024; 18:15579883231215153. [PMID: 38179864 PMCID: PMC10771074 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231215153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals who are diagnosed and treated for cancer use a variety of strategies to manage its impacts. However, there is currently a lack of research on men's experience with managing cancer impacts, which is necessary to better support them throughout the cancer care continuum. This study explored the experience of men diagnosed with cancer, focusing on the impacts of the illness and its treatment and men's strategies to cope. A qualitative descriptive design was used. Thirty-one men (Mage = 52.7 [26-82] years) diagnosed with various cancer types were recruited to take part in individual telephone interviews (n = 14) or online focus groups (n = 17) addressing the impacts of cancer and strategies they used to cope with these impacts. Directed content analysis was performed, using Fitch's (2008) supportive care framework to guide the analysis. Cancer impacts and strategies used to cope were classified into six categories: physical, psychological, interpersonal, informational, practical, and spiritual. Results indicate that the cancer experience is diverse and multifaceted rather than homogeneous. Medical and supportive care services could be more effectively personalized to meet the diversity of men's needs by adopting a comprehensive and holistic approach to supportive care. Working in partnership with patients, it appears promising to recognize and identify men's needs and match them to appropriate resources to provide truly supportive care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathalie Bedrossian
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - André Myre
- Peer Researcher, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Alexia Piché
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | - Anika Petrella
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lise Gauvin
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Doré
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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84
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Tesfaye EA, O'Neill RC, McGregor T, Clemens MW. Financial Toxicity in Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 92:34-40. [PMID: 37994417 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial toxicity is a growing concern due to its considerable effects on medical adherence, quality of life, and mortality. The cost associated with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is substantial from diagnosis to treatment, including adjuvant therapy and surgery. This study aims to assess the prevalence of financial toxicity in BIA-ALCL patients. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional, survey-based study on women with confirmed cases of BIA-ALCL from December 2019 to March 2023. The primary study outcomes were financial toxicity measured by Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) score and patient-reported financial burden measured by the responses to the Evaluation of the Financial Impact of BIA-ALCL survey. Lower COST scores signify higher financial toxicity. Responses were linked to patient data extracted from the medical records. RESULTS Thirty-two women treated for confirmed BIA-ALCL were included. Patients were all White and were diagnosed at a median age of 51 years (range, 41-65 years). The mean COST score was 27.9 ± 2.23. Lower COST scores were associated with receipt of radiotherapy ( P = 0.033), exceeding credit card limits ( P = 0.036), living paycheck to paycheck ( P = 0.00027), requiring financial support from friends and family ( P = 0.00044), and instability in household finances ( P = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS Financial toxicity is prevalent in BIA-ALCL patients and has a substantial impact on patient reported burden. Insurance denial is frequent for patients with a prior history of cosmetic augmentation. Risk assessments and cost discussions should occur throughout the care continuum to minimize financial burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliora A Tesfaye
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Rebecca C O'Neill
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Terri McGregor
- Breast Implant Safety Alliance (BISA), North Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark W Clemens
- Department of Plastic Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX
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Ren XQ, Sun SJ, Wei SA, Fang SW, Xu LF, Xiao J, Lu MM. Socioeconomic Status Plays a Moderating Role in the Association Between Multimorbidity and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Cancer Patients. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2024; 61:469580241264187. [PMID: 39045764 PMCID: PMC11271140 DOI: 10.1177/00469580241264187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the moderating role of socioeconomic status (SES) in the association between multimorbidity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among cancer patients in Anhui China. A total of 560 cancer patients were recruited for the cross-section study. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Tobit regression analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between multimorbidity and HRQOL as well as to assess the moderating effect of SES. The research findings indicated that 76.61% of cancer patients experienced multimorbidity, with psychological multimorbidity being the most prevalent (45.54%), followed by physical-psychological multimorbidity (20.89%). Moreover, physical-psychological multimorbidity had the most substantial adverse effect on HRQOL (P < .001). The presence of multimorbidity was correlated with a significant decline in HRQOL, with a 17.5% (P < .001) decrease in HRQOL for each additional multimorbidity. Additionally, SES played a significant role in moderating the impact of multimorbidity on HRQOL in cancer patients. (Marginal effect = -0.022, P < .01). The high SES group exhibited a higher overall HRQOL than the low SES group (Marginal effect = 0.068, P < .001). And with the increase of multimorbidity, HRQOL in the higher SES showed a more pronounced downward trend, compared with the lower SES (β = -.270 vs β = -.201, P < .001). Our findings underscore the importance of preventing and managing multimorbidity in cancer patients, particularly those with low SES. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the impact of the rapid decline in HRQOL as the number of multimorbidity increases in individuals with higher SES. It is imperative to explore interdisciplinary and continuous collaborative management models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jian Xiao
- Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, Hefei, China
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86
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Copeland C, Kotsopoulos N, Favre-Bulle A, Bencina G, Sönmez D, Salomonsson S. Assessing the fiscal consequences of novel and existing treatments for triple negative breast cancer in Switzerland by applying a government perspective framework. J Med Econ 2024; 27:858-865. [PMID: 38904118 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2024.2369428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that can impact patients' employment and workforce participation. This study estimates how the employment effects of TNBC impact government tax revenue and public benefits expenditure in Switzerland, representing the fiscal burden of disease (FBoD), and likely consequences of introducing new treatment options. METHODS A four-state cohort model was used to calculate fiscal effects for two treatments: Neoadjuvant pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy followed by adjuvant pembrolizumab monotherapy (P + C→P) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone (C). Lifetime present values of tax revenue, social benefit payments, and healthcare costs were calculated for the average population and those undergoing treatment to assess the FBoD. RESULTS An average TNBC patient treated with C and P + C→P is expected to generate CHF128,999 and CHF97,008 less tax than the average population, respectively, and require increased social benefit payments. Compared to C, 75% of the incremental healthcare costs of P + C→P are estimated to be offset through tax revenue gains. CONCLUSIONS This analysis demonstrates that 75% of the additional costs of a new TNBC treatment option can be offset by gains in tax revenue. Fiscal analysis can be a useful tool to complement existing methods for evaluating new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Goran Bencina
- Value & Implementation Outcomes Research, MSD, Madrid, Spain
| | - Demet Sönmez
- Value & Implementation Outcomes Research, MSD, Stockholm, Sweden
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de Kermadec E, Zheng Y, Rosenberg S, Ruddy KJ, Ligibel JA, Emmons KM, Partridge AH. Fertility concerns and treatment decision-making among national sample of young women with breast cancer. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6838. [PMID: 38131887 PMCID: PMC10807590 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of breast cancer in young women has been shown to affect their decision-making with regard to fertility and family planning. Limited data are available from populations across the U.S. regarding this issue; thus, we sought to describe fertility concerns and efforts to preserve fertility in a national clinical trial population of young breast cancer patients. METHODS The young and strong study was a cluster-randomized controlled trial testing an intervention program for young women with breast cancer. Patients were surveyed within 3 months after diagnosis and at 3, 6, and 12 months after. Surveys asked about sociodemographics, psychosocial domains, fertility concerns, and fertility preservation strategies. Univariable and multivariable models were used to investigate sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial predictors of fertility concerns. RESULTS Of 467 women from 54 clinical sites across the U.S. (14 academic, 40 community), 419 were evaluable regarding fertility concerns. Median age was 40 years (range 22-45), 11% were Black, 6% Hispanic, and 75% had children. Tumor stage was I (35%), II (51%), or III (14%); 82% received chemotherapy. At time of the treatment decision, 133 (32%) participants had fertility concerns, among whom 47% indicated this affected their treatment decisions. Sixty percent of participants reported having discussed fertility with their physician. Twenty percent of those with fertility concerns used fertility preservation strategies. History of difficulty becoming pregnant and younger age were associated with higher odds of fertility concerns in multivariable modeling. CONCLUSION Many young women with newly diagnosed breast cancer are concerned about fertility in a way that impacts their treatment decisions. Concerns were discussed, but few used fertility preservation strategies. These findings have implications for counseling young patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth de Kermadec
- Medical OncologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Breast Oncology ProgramDana‐Farber Brigham Cancer CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Present address:
SanofiCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Yue Zheng
- Data ScienceDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Shoshana Rosenberg
- Medical OncologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Breast Oncology ProgramDana‐Farber Brigham Cancer CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Present address:
Weill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Jennifer A. Ligibel
- Medical OncologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Breast Oncology ProgramDana‐Farber Brigham Cancer CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Karen M. Emmons
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ann H. Partridge
- Medical OncologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Breast Oncology ProgramDana‐Farber Brigham Cancer CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Lee SJ, Jin DL, Kim YA, Seo HJ, Yoon SJ. How should the healthcare system support cancer survivors? Survivors' and health professionals' expectations and perception on comprehensive cancer survivorship care in Korea: a qualitative study. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:1255. [PMID: 38124040 PMCID: PMC10731886 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11736-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qualitative research on cancer survivors' need for comprehensive cancer survivorship care within the health care system is limited. Our study aimed to understand cancer survivors' and health professionals' expectations and perceptions for developing a comprehensive cancer survivorship care system in South Korea. METHODS An exploratory qualitative study was conducted. A total of 16 subjects (11 cancer survivors and 5 health professionals) were purposively sampled from Regional Cancer Survivorship Centers or Cancer Survivor Clinics in Korea. In-depth semi-structured online or face-to-face interviews were conducted. Six steps of thematic analysis were used to analyze data. RESULTS The following four primary themes emerged from the interviews: 1) introducing a customized follow-up care system to improve continuity of survivorship care, 2) implementing educational strategies for both survivors and health professionals to manage changed health, and 3) accepting cancer survivors as companions. These three themes included a total of nine subthemes. As a result, the comprehensive survivorship model identified needs in terms of 1) changes in the medical healthcare system and core services that can accommodate the cancer survivors' condition and 2) necessary care services and social support for cancer survivors. CONCLUSIONS This study identified the existing gaps in Korea's current healthcare system regarding comprehensive cancer survivorship care for cancer survivors. Further research on eHealth-based counseling and educational support, the payment models of cancer survivorship care within universal health coverage, and changing social perceptions to strengthen the biopsychosocial needs of cancer survivors is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jung Lee
- College of Nursing, Institute of Health Science Research, and Inje Institute of Hospice & Palliative Care (IHPC), Inje University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Dal-Lae Jin
- Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- Transdisciplinary Major in Learning Health Systems, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Ae Kim
- Division of Cancer Control and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Ju Seo
- College of Nursing, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Seok-Jun Yoon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Institute for Future Public Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.
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Lee S, Olvera RG, Shiu-Yee K, Rush LJ, Tarver WL, Blevins T, McAlearney AS, Andersen BL, Paskett ED, Carson WE, Chen JC, Obeng-Gyasi S. Short-term and long-term financial toxicity from breast cancer treatment: a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 32:24. [PMID: 38095729 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08199-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The rising cost of breast cancer treatment has increased patients' financial burden, intensifying an already stressful treatment process. Although researchers increasingly recognize the harmful impact of medical and nonmedical costs associated with cancer treatment, understanding patients' perspectives of financial toxicity is limited. We aimed to explore the topic of financial toxicity through the lived experiences of patients with breast cancer from groups at risk of social and economic marginalization. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 women with breast cancer from four specific groups: Black women, Medicaid enrollees, rural residents, and women age ≤ 40. We transcribed, coded, and analyzed the data using deductive and inductive approaches. RESULTS Two overarching themes captured patients' experiences of financial toxicity: short-term and long-term impacts. Short-term stressors included direct medical (e.g., co-pays, premiums), nonmedical (e.g., transportation, lodging), and indirect (e.g., job loss, reduced work hours) costs. Early in their treatments, patients' focus on survival took precedence over financial concerns. However, as the treatment course progressed, fear of consequences from compounding costs of care and financial distress negatively impacted patients' lifestyles and outlooks for the future. CONCLUSION Programs addressing financial toxicity that look beyond early-phase interventions are needed. Specifically, patients struggling with the accumulation of treatment costs and the resultant stress require ongoing support. Long-term support is especially needed for groups vulnerable to financial instability and social marginalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Lee
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ramona G Olvera
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Karen Shiu-Yee
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Laura J Rush
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Willi L Tarver
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tessa Blevins
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ann Scheck McAlearney
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Electra D Paskett
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - William E Carson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - J C Chen
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Samilia Obeng-Gyasi
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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90
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Killela M, Biddell C, Keim-Malpass J, Schwartz TA, Soto S, Williams J, Santacroce S. The Use of Medical Crowdfunding to Mitigate the Personal Costs of Serious Chronic Illness: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44530. [PMID: 38048149 PMCID: PMC10697184 DOI: 10.2196/44530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons diagnosed with serious chronic illnesses and their caretakers experience multiple types of financial costs that strain their income and generate financial distress. Many turn to medical crowdfunding (MCF) to mitigate the harms of these costs on their health and quality of life. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to summarize the research on MCF for persons diagnosed with serious chronic illness regarding study designs and methods; the responsible conduct of research practices; and study foci as they relate to stress, stress appraisals, and the coping processes. METHODS This review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Eligible studies were conducted in countries designated as high income by the World Bank and focused on beneficiaries diagnosed with serious chronic illness. The findings of the included studies were summarized as they related to the key concepts in a conceptual framework derived from an established stress, appraisal, and coping framework and a conceptual model of financial toxicity in pediatric oncology. RESULTS Overall, 26 studies were eligible for inclusion in the review. The main findings included a lack of integration of qualitative and quantitative approaches and the inconsistent reporting of the responsible conduct of research practices. The included studies focused on financial stressors that contributed to financial burden, such as out-of-pocket payments of medical bills, basic living expenses, medical travel expenses, and lost income owing to illness-related work disruptions. Few studies addressed stress appraisals as threatening or the adequacy of available financial resources. When mentioned, appraisals related to the global financial struggle during the COVID-19 pandemic or the capacity of social network members to donate funds. The consequences of MCF included the receipt of 3 forms of social support (tangible, informational, and emotional), privacy loss, embarrassment, and the propagation of scientifically unsupported information. Studies found that friends and family tended to manage MCF campaigns. Although most of the studies (21/26, 81%) focused on monetary outcomes, a few (5/26, 19%) concentrated on peoples' experiences with MCF. CONCLUSIONS The identified methodological gaps highlight the need for more robust and reproducible approaches to using the copious data available on public MCF platforms. The integration of quantitative and qualitative methods will allow for nuanced explorations of the MCF experience. A more consistent elaboration of strategies to promote the responsible conduct of research is warranted to minimize risk to populations that are vulnerable and express concerns regarding the loss of privacy. Finally, an examination of the unanticipated consequences of MCF is critical for the development of future interventions to optimize existing supports while providing needed supports, financial and nonfinancial, that are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Killela
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Caitlin Biddell
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | | | - Todd A Schwartz
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sandra Soto
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jessica Williams
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sheila Santacroce
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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91
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Thom B, Friedman DN, Aviki EM, Benedict C, Watson SE, Zeitler MS, Chino F. The long-term financial experiences of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2023; 17:1813-1823. [PMID: 36472761 PMCID: PMC9734817 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01280-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-related financial hardship can negatively impact financial well-being and may prevent adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors (ages 15-39) from gaining financial independence. This analysis explored the financial experiences following diagnosis with cancer among AYA survivors. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional, anonymous survey of a national sample of AYAs recruited online. The Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) and InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale (IFDFW) assessed financial hardship (cancer-related and general, respectively), and respondents reported related financial consequences and financial coping behaviors (both medical and non-medical). RESULTS Two hundred sixty-seven AYA survivors completed the survey (mean 8.3 years from diagnosis). Financial hardship was high: mean COST score was 13.7 (moderate-to-severe financial toxicity); mean IFDFW score was 4.3 (high financial stress). Financial consequences included post-cancer credit score decrease (44%), debt collection contact (39%), spending more than 10% of income on medical expenses (39%), and lacking money for basic necessities (23%). Financial coping behaviors included taking money from savings (55%), taking on credit card debt (45%), putting off major purchases (45%), and borrowing money (42%). In logistic regression models, general financial distress was associated with increased odds of experiencing financial consequences and engaging in both medical- and non-medical-related financial coping behaviors. DISCUSSION AYA survivors face long-term financial hardship after cancer treatment, which impacts multiple domains, including their use of healthcare and their personal finances. Interventions are needed to provide AYAs with tools to navigate financial aspects of the healthcare system; connect them with resources; and create systems-level solutions to address healthcare affordability. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Survivorship care providers, particularly those who interact with AYA survivors, must be attuned to the unique risk for financial hardships facing this population and make efforts to increase access available interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridgette Thom
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Danielle N Friedman
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emeline M Aviki
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Catherine Benedict
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford Cancer Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Fumiko Chino
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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92
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Williams C, Meyer L, Kawam O, Leventakos K, DeMartino ES. The Faces of Financial Toxicity: A Qualitative Interview Study of Financial Toxicity in Advanced Cancer Patients in Phase I Oncology Trials. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2023; 7:524-533. [PMID: 38035050 PMCID: PMC10685144 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To characterize the financial toxicity experienced by advanced cancer patients enrolled in phase I oncology trials. Patients and Methods We conducted structured interviews with cancer patients participating in phase I clinical trials. Using a thematic analysis approach, we identified recurring themes in patients' experiences of financial toxicity resulting from trial participation. Results Seven major themes emerged from the interviews: (1) the burden of travel, (2) a willingness to pursue treatment despite financial risk, (3) fear of destitution, (4) financial toxicity equaling physical toxicity, (5) changes in food spending, (6) reluctance to confide in the study investigator about financial toxicity, and (7) difficulty navigating financial aid. These themes highlight the multifaceted financial challenges faced by patients in early phase clinical trials and the need for targeted support services. Conclusion Our findings underscore the relevance of financial toxicity in the context of phase I clinical trials and provide insights into the diverse challenges faced by advanced cancer patients. These challenges likely augment the disparities seen in trial enrollment for historically marginalized populations. Addressing financial toxicity in this population is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Future research should focus on developing effective interventions and support services tailored to the needs of patients in early phase clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colt Williams
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Leigh Meyer
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Omar Kawam
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Erin S. DeMartino
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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93
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Williams CP, Liang MI, Rocque GB, Gidwani R, Caston NE, Pisu M. Cancer-Related Financial Hardship Screening as Part of Practice Transformation. Med Care 2023; 61:S116-S121. [PMID: 37963030 PMCID: PMC10635335 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on financial hardship, an "adverse event" in individuals with cancer, are needed to inform policy and supportive care interventions and reduce adverse economic outcomes. METHODS Lay navigator-led financial hardship screening was piloted among University of Alabama at Birmingham oncology patients initiating treatment in October 2020. Financial hardship screening, including reported financial distress and difficulty, was added to a standard-of-care treatment planning survey. Screening feasibility and completion and proportions of reported financial distress and difficulty were calculated overall and by patient race and rurality. The risk of financial distress by patient sociodemographics was estimated. RESULTS Patients who completed a treatment planning survey (N=2741) were 18% Black, Indigenous, or persons of color (BIPOC) and 16% rural dwelling. The majority of patients completed financial hardship screening (90%), surpassing the target feasibility completion rate of 75%. The screening revealed 34% of patients were experiencing financial distress, including 49% of BIPOC and 30% of White patients. Adjusted models revealed BIPOC patients had a 48% higher risk of financial distress compared with those who were White (risk ratio 1.48, 95% CI, 1.31-1.66). Large differences in reported financial difficulties were seen comparing patients who were BIPOC and White (utilities: 33% vs. 10%, upfront medical payments: 44% vs. 23%, transportation: 28% vs. 12%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The collection of patient-reported financial hardship data via routine clinical care was feasible and identified racial inequities at treatment initiation. Efforts to collect patient economic data should support the design, implementation, and evaluation of patient-centered interventions to improve equity and reduce the impact of financial hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret I. Liang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles
| | | | - Risha Gidwani
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Nicole E. Caston
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Maria Pisu
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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94
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Jones SMW, Ton M, Heffner JL, Malen RC, Cohen SA, Newcomb PA. Association of financial worry with substance use, mental health, and quality of life in cancer patients. J Cancer Surviv 2023; 17:1824-1833. [PMID: 36595185 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01319-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Financial worry is an under-appreciated negative effect of cancer. The relationship of financial worry and health behaviors in cancer is poorly characterized and has important clinical implications. This study examined the association of financial worry with substance misuse, mood, and quality of life. METHODS People with cancer (n = 1473; 6 to 20 months after diagnosis) were recruited from a SEER cancer registry in the Pacific Northwest. Participants completed an online survey assessing financial worry; misuse of cannabis, alcohol, and prescription drugs; tobacco smoking status; quality of life (physical and mental dimensions); anxiety; and depression. Multivariable regressions tested the association of financial worry to each health indicator and outcome. RESULTS In adjusted analyses, financial worry was associated with being a current vs. never smoker (odds ratio (OR) = 1.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01, 3.60), and a positive screen for an anxiety (OR = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.93, 4.68) and depressive (OR = 3.08, 95% CI: 1.89, 5.00) disorder. Financial worry was not associated with cannabis, alcohol, or prescription drug misuse (all ps > 0.05), but was associated with a decrease in physical (β = - 2.97, 95% CI: - 4.15, - 1.79) and mental (β = - 5.27, 95% CI: - 6.59, - 3.96) quality of life. CONCLUSION Financial worry among cancer survivors is associated with anxiety, depression, and worse quality of life. Of the evaluated substances, there was only an increased odds of current tobacco use with financial worry. Future longitudinal studies should inform the relationships between these factors. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Financial worry and material hardship may both need to be addressed in cancer survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salene M W Jones
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
| | - Mimi Ton
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jaimee L Heffner
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Rachel C Malen
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Stacey A Cohen
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Polly A Newcomb
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
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95
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Schneider J, Hernandez D, Schlander M, Arndt V. Out-of-pocket payments and loss of income among long-term breast cancer survivors in Germany: a multi-regional population-based study. J Cancer Surviv 2023; 17:1639-1659. [PMID: 36459378 PMCID: PMC10539192 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01293-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to examine the magnitude of out of pocket (OOP) payments and income loss, as well as to identify socioeconomic and clinical factors among long-term breast cancer (BC) survivors in Germany. METHODS We examine data from 2654 long-term BC survivors in Germany that participated in the "CAncEr Survivorship - A multi-Regional population-based study" (CAESAR) and who were at least 5 years post diagnosis. BC-related OOP payments and income loss both within the 12 months prior to the survey were analyzed. Two-part regression models were performed to identify socioeconomic and clinical factors. RESULTS OOP payments were incurred by 51.9% of survivors with a total mean spending of 566 euros. Income loss was present among 9.6% of survivors and averaged 5463 euros among those reporting such. Socioeconomic and clinical factors associated with higher OOP payments (p ≤ 0.05) included age at time of diagnosis (65-79 years), education (10-11 years), (early) retirement, stage of diagnosis (stage III), time from diagnosis (more than 10 years), comorbidities (at least 1), and the use of rehabilitation services. Regarding income loss, age at time of diagnosis (50-59 years), (early) retirement, stage of diagnosis (stage II), time from diagnosis (5-7 years), comorbidities (at least 1), and receiving chemotherapy treatment were associated with higher losses. CONCLUSIONS For some survivors in Germany, financial burden can be considerably high despite comprehensive healthcare and support from social security. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS OOP payments related to domestic help and nursing staff as well as to outpatient care are most frequent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Schneider
- Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Health Economics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Diego Hernandez
- Division of Health Economics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Schlander
- Division of Health Economics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Volker Arndt
- Unit of Cancer Survivorship, Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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96
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Arenare L, Porta C, Barberio D, Terzolo S, Zagonel V, Pisconti S, Del Mastro L, Pinto C, Bilancia D, Cinieri S, Rizzo M, Migliaccio G, Montesarchio V, Del Campo L, De Lorenzo F, Iannelli E, Traclò F, Gitto L, Vaccaro MC, Frontini L, Giannarelli D, Bryce J, Piccirillo MC, Jommi C, Efficace F, Riva S, Di Maio M, Gallo C, Perrone F. Confirmatory validation analysis of the PROFFIT questionnaire to assess financial toxicity in cancer patients. ESMO Open 2023; 8:102192. [PMID: 38052104 PMCID: PMC10774953 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.102192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Patient Reported Outcome for Fighting FInancial Toxicity (PROFFIT) questionnaire was developed to measure financial toxicity (FT) and identify its determinants. The aim of the present study was to confirm its validity in a prospective cohort of patients receiving anticancer treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS From March 2021 to July 2022, 221 patients were enrolled at 10 Italian centres. Selected items of the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire represented the anchors, specifically, question 28 (Q-28) on financial difficulties, and questions 29-30 measuring global health status/quality of life (HR-QOL). The study had 80% power to detect a 0.20 correlation coefficient (r) between anchors and PROFFIT-score (items 1-7, range 0-100, 100 indicating maximum FT) with bilateral alpha 0.05 and 80% power. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted. FT determinants (items 8-16) were described. RESULTS Median age of patients was 65 years, 116 (52.5%) were females, 96 (43.4%) had low education level. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed goodness of fit of the PROFFIT-score. Significant partial correlation of PROFFIT-score was found with Q-28 (r = 0.51) and HR-QOL (r = -0.23). Mean (SD) PROFFIT-score at baseline was 36.5 (24.9); it was statistically significantly higher for patients living in South Italy, those with lower education level, those who were freelancer/unemployed at diagnosis and those who reported significant economic impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Mean (SD) scores of determinants ranged from 17.6 (27.1) for item 14 (support from medical staff) to 49.0 (36.3) for item 10 (expenses for medicines or supplements). PROFFIT-score significantly increased with worsening response to determinants. CONCLUSIONS External validation of PROFFIT-score in an independent sample of patients was successful. The instrument is now being used in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Arenare
- Clinical Trial Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italy
| | - C Porta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi 'A. Moro', Bari, Italy; Polyclinic Consortium University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - D Barberio
- Departmental Structure of Clinical Psycho-oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italy
| | - S Terzolo
- Department of Oncology, Università di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano, Torino, Italy
| | - V Zagonel
- Oncology Unit 1, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IOV, IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - S Pisconti
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale S. G. Moscati, Statte TA, Italy
| | - L Del Mastro
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy; Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - C Pinto
- Medical Oncology, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - D Bilancia
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera San Carlo, Potenza, Italy
| | - S Cinieri
- Medical Oncologiy, Ospedale Perrino, Brindisi, Italy
| | - M Rizzo
- Polyclinic Consortium University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - G Migliaccio
- Departmental Structure of Clinical Psycho-oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italy
| | - V Montesarchio
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Specialistica dei Colli, Napoli, Italy
| | - L Del Campo
- Federazione Italiana delle Associazioni di Volontariato in Oncologia (FAVO), Rome, Italy
| | - F De Lorenzo
- Federazione Italiana delle Associazioni di Volontariato in Oncologia (FAVO), Rome, Italy; European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC), Brussels, Italy
| | - E Iannelli
- Federazione Italiana delle Associazioni di Volontariato in Oncologia (FAVO), Rome, Italy; Associazione Italiana Malati di Cancro (AIMAC), Roma, Italy
| | - F Traclò
- Associazione Italiana Malati di Cancro (AIMAC), Roma, Italy
| | - L Gitto
- Department of Economy, Università degli Studi di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - M C Vaccaro
- Welfare and Health Department, Centro Studi Investimenti Sociali (CENSIS), Roma, Italy
| | - L Frontini
- Federation of Italian Cooperative Oncology Groups (FICOG), Milano, Italy
| | - D Giannarelli
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, GSTeP, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - J Bryce
- Ascension St. John Clinical Research Institute, Tulsa, USA
| | - M C Piccirillo
- Clinical Trial Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italy
| | - C Jommi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - F Efficace
- Gruppo Italiano per le Malattie Ematologiche dell'Adulto (GIMEMA) Health Outcomes Research Unit, Roma, Italy
| | - S Riva
- St Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK
| | - M Di Maio
- Department of Oncology, Università di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano, Torino, Italy
| | - C Gallo
- Professor Emeritus Medical Statistics, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Napoli, Italy
| | - F Perrone
- Clinical Trial Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italy.
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97
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You W, Pilehvari A, Shi R, Cohn W, Sheffield C, Chow PI, Krukowski BA, Anderson R. A multi-dimensional assessment of financial hardship of cancer patients using existing health system data. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22263-22277. [PMID: 37987094 PMCID: PMC10757134 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing financial hardship screening does not capture the multifaceted and dynamic nature of the problem. The use of existing health system data is a promising way to enable scalable and sustainable financial hardship screening. METHODS We used existing data from 303 adult patients with cancer at the University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Center (2016-2018). All received distress screening and had a valid financial assistance screening based solely on household size-adjusted income. We constructed a composite index that integrates multiple existing health system data (Epic, distress screening, and cancer registry) to assess comprehensive financial hardship (e.g., material conditions, psychological responses, and coping behaviors). We examined differences of at-risk patients identified by our composite index and by existing single-dimension criterion. Dynamics of financial hardship over time, by age, and cancer type, were examined by fractional probit models. RESULTS At-risk patients identified by the composite index were generally younger, better educated, and had a higher annual household income, though they had lower health insurance coverage. Identified periods to intervene for most patients are before formal diagnosis, 2 years, and 6 years after diagnosis. Within 2 years of diagnosis and more than 4 years after diagnosis appear critical for subgroups of patients who may suffer from financial hardship disparities. CONCLUSION Existing health system data provides opportunities to systematically measure and track financial hardship in a systematic, scalable and sustainable way. We find that the dimensions of financial hardship can exhibit different patterns over time and across patient subgroups, which can guide targeted interventions. The scalability of the algorithm is limited by existing data availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen You
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Asal Pilehvari
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Ruoding Shi
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Wendy Cohn
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Christina Sheffield
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Philip I‐Fon Chow
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | | | - Roger Anderson
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
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98
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Yuan X, Zhang X, He J, Xing W. Interventions for financial toxicity among cancer survivors: A scoping review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 192:104140. [PMID: 37739147 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Financial toxicity impairs cancer survivors' material condition, psychological wellbeing and quality of life. This scoping review aimed to identify interventions for reducing cancer-related financial toxicity (FT), and to summarize their main findings. METHODS A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Clinical Trials, China National Knowledge Internet, Wanfang and SinoMed from January 2010 to September 2022 following the PRISMA-ScR checklist. RESULTS From 2842 identified articles, a total of 15 were included in this review. Existing interventions can be classified into four types: financial navigation, financial counseling, insurance education and others. Previous interventions preliminarily affirmed the feasibility, satisfaction, and improvement in financial worries and knowledge. However, the effectiveness on FT was controversial. CONCLUSIONS Previous interventions affirmed the feasibility and primary effect of these interventions. Studies with more rigorous design are needed to evaluate the effectiveness and generalizability of interventions on FT across diverse healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Yuan
- School of nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuehui Zhang
- School of nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing He
- School of nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijie Xing
- School of nursing, Fudan University and core research member of Fudan University Centre for Evidence-based Nursing: A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Shanghai, China.
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99
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Halpern MT, Ekwueme DU, Yabroff KR. Enhancing Cancer Economic Data Resources: The Interagency Consortium to Promote Health Economics Research on Cancer (HEROiC). Med Care 2023; 61:S109-S115. [PMID: 37963029 PMCID: PMC10635328 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer diagnosis and treatment can substantially affect health and financial outcomes for patients and families. Research in health care delivery across the cancer control continuum includes diverse activities led by multiple government and private sector organizations. Assessing the economic drivers and influencing factors associated with costs across this continuum is challenging as organizations leading research efforts often do not have forums to share data, develop linkages, and explore collaborative opportunities. OBJECTIVE To describe the objectives, activities, and goals of the Interagency Consortium to Promote Health Economics Research on Cancer (HEROiC) to strengthen data resources and capacity for collaborative patient-focused cancer health economics research. MAIN ARGUMENT HEROiC's goals include assessing the economic burden of cancer; examining the effects of policies, health care setting/system factors, and health service delivery approaches across the cancer control continuum; and enhancing collaborations among researchers and organizations. CONCLUSIONS Data resources to study economic outcomes associated with cancer control are highly fragmented; HEROIC provides a forum to collaboratively develop, enhance, and utilize data resources and infrastructure for patient-centered cancer health economics research. This includes sharing data resources, developing linkages, identifying new data collection venues, and creating and supporting the dissemination of evidence-based information to diverse stakeholders. These efforts provide critical information to address the economic burden of cancer. RELEVANCE TO THE SPECIAL ISSUE Cancer diagnosis and treatment affect patient health and financial outcomes. This commentary describes how HEROiC will enhance research data infrastructure and collaborations to support patient-centered research with the goal of reducing the economic burden of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. Halpern
- Healthcare Delivery Research Program, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - Donatus U. Ekwueme
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - K. Robin Yabroff
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA
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100
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Waters AR, Biddell CB, Killela M, Kasow KA, Page K, Wheeler SB, Drier SW, Kelly MS, Robles J, Spees LP. Financial burden and recommended multilevel solutions among caregivers of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30700. [PMID: 37776093 PMCID: PMC10615841 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The healthcare costs of patients who receive hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are substantial. At the same time, the increasing use of pediatric HSCT leaves more caregivers of pediatric HSCT recipients at risk for financial burden-an understudied area of research. METHODS Financial burden experienced by caregivers of recipients who received autologous or allogeneic transplants was assessed using an explanatory mixed-methods design including a one-time survey and semi-structured interviews. Financial burden was assessed through an adapted COmprehensive Score for financial Toxicity (COST) as well as questions about the types of out-of-pocket costs and cost-coping behaviors. Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used to assess differences in costs incurred and coping behaviors by financial toxicity and financial toxicity by demographic factors. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using directed content analysis. RESULTS Of 99 survey participants, 64% experienced high financial toxicity (COST ≤ $ \le \;$ 22). Caregivers with high financial toxicity were more likely to report costs related to transportation and diet. High financial toxicity was associated with nearly all cost-coping behaviors (e.g., borrowed money). High financial toxicity was also associated with increased use of hospital financial support and transportation assistance. Qualitative analysis resulted in four categories that were integrated with quantitative findings: (1) care-related out-of-pocket costs incurred, (2) cost-coping behaviors, (3) financial support resources used, and (4) multilevel recommendations for reducing financial burden. CONCLUSIONS Considering the substantial, long-term financial burden among pediatric HSCT patients and their caregivers, this population would benefit from adapted and tailored financial burden interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin R Waters
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Caitlin B Biddell
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mary Killela
- School of Nursing, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kimberly A Kasow
- Department of Pediatrics, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristin Page
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Stephanie B Wheeler
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah W Drier
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew S Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joanna Robles
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lisa P Spees
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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