1
|
Ritter AR, Prasad RN, Jhawar SR, Bazan JG, Gokun Y, Vudatala S, Diaz DA. Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy: A Cross-sectional Survey Study of US Radiation Oncologists. Am J Clin Oncol 2024; 47:434-438. [PMID: 38907597 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001114] [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: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES For many malignancies, hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) is an accepted standard associated with decreased treatment time and costs. United States provider beliefs regarding HFRT likely impact its adoption but are poorly studied. We surveyed US-based radiation oncologists (ROs) to gauge HFRT utilization rates for prostate (PC), breast (BC), and rectal cancer (RC) and to characterize the beliefs governing these decisions. METHODS From July to October 2021, an anonymized, online survey was electronically distributed to ROs actively practicing in the United States. Demographic and practice characteristic information was collected. Questions assessing rates of offering HFRT for PC, BC, and RC and perceived limitations towards using HFRT were administered. RESULTS A total of 203 eligible respondents (72% male, 72% White, 53% nonacademic practice, 69% with 11+ years in practice) were identified. Approximately 50% offered stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for early/favorable intermediate risk PC. Although >90% of ROs offered whole-breast HFRT for early-stage BC, only 33% offered accelerated partial-breast irradiation (APBI). Overall, 41% of ROs offered short-course neoadjuvant RT for RC. The primary reported barriers to HFRT utilization were lack of data, inexperience, and referring provider concerns. CONCLUSIONS HFRT is safe, effective, and beneficial, yet underutilized-particularly prostate SBRT, APBI, and short-course RT for RC. Skills retraining and education of ROs and referring providers may increase utilization rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yevgeniya Gokun
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Sundari Vudatala
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Booth S, Freeman JQ, Li JL, Huo D. Increase in Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy Among Patients with Invasive Breast Cancer or Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: Who is Left Behind? Pract Radiat Oncol 2024; 14:e305-e323. [PMID: 38685449 DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2024.04.010] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to update the trend of hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation (HF-WBI) use over time in the US and examine factors associated with lack of HF-WBI adoption for patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer (IBC) or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) undergoing a lumpectomy. METHODS AND MATERIALS Among patients who underwent a lumpectomy, we identified 928,034 patients with early-stage IBC and 330,964 patients with DCIS in the 2004 to 2020 National Cancer Database. We defined HF-WBI as 2.5-3.33 Gy/fraction to the breast and conventionally fractionated WBI as 1.8-2.0 Gy/fraction. We evaluated the trend of HF-WBI utilization using a generalized linear model with the log link and binomial distribution. Factors associated with HF-WBI utilization were assessed using multivariable logistic regression in patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2020. RESULTS Among patients with IBC, HF-WBI use has significantly increased from 0.7% in 2004 to 63.9% in 2020. Similarly, HF-WBI usage among patients with DCIS has also increased significantly from 0.4% in 2004 to 56.6% in 2020. Black patients with IBC were less likely than White patients to receive HF-WBI (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.81; 95% CI, 0.77-0.85). Community cancer programs were less likely to administer HF-WBI to patients with IBC (AOR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.77-0.84) and to those with DCIS (AOR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.79-0.96) than academic/research programs. Younger age, positive nodes, larger tumor size, low volume programs, and facility location were also associated with lack of HF-WBI adoption in both patient cohorts. CONCLUSIONS HF-WBI utilization among postlumpectomy patients has significantly increased from 2004 to 2020 and can finally be considered standard of care in the US. We found substantial disparities in adoption within patient and facility subgroups. Reducing disparities in HF-WBI adoption has the potential to further alleviate health care costs while improving patients' quality of life.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Female
- Middle Aged
- Breast Neoplasms/radiotherapy
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/radiotherapy
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/pathology
- Radiation Dose Hypofractionation
- Aged
- Adult
- Mastectomy, Segmental
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/radiotherapy
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/surgery
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Booth
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jincong Q Freeman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Center for Health and the Social Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - James L Li
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dezheng Huo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Saulsberry L, Liao C, Huo D. Expenditures and Use of Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy Treating Breast Cancer Among Medicare Advantage Enrollees, 2009 to 2017. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101568. [PMID: 39176100 PMCID: PMC11339024 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2024.101568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Technology advances in cancer care have paralleled rapidly increasing expenditures in radiation therapy. The use and costs of shorter cancer radiation therapy offer potential utility in clinical practice. We evaluate use and expenditures of Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries receiving hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (HF-WBI) compared with conventionally fractionated whole breast irradiation (CF-WBI) in the United States and examine the relationship of patient characteristics with HF-WBI use. Methods and Materials We performed a retrospective analysis of radiation therapy in MA beneficiaries using private employer-sponsored insurance claims for a pooled cross-sectional evaluation from 2009 to 2017. The study population included female MA beneficiaries with early-stage breast cancer treated with lumpectomy and whole breast irradiation. Results A total of 9957 women received HF-WBI, and 18,920 received CF-WBI. Older age, greater distance from home to treatment facility, and a higher proportion of college graduates in the community of residence were associated with increased HF-WBI use. Mean insurer-paid radiation therapy expenditures were significantly lower for HF-WBI versus CF-WBI (adjusted difference, $4113; 95% CI, $4030-$4,197). Mean patient out-of-pocket expenditure for HF-WBI was $426 less than that of CF-WBI. Across US states, geographic variation existed in the ratio of costs for HF-WBI relative to CF-WBI (range, 0.41-0.87). Conclusions HF-WBI use among MA beneficiaries with breast cancer has dramatically increased over time, surpassing CF-HBI as the dominant form of radiation therapy. HF-WBI clinical adoption has outpaced any continual cost decrease, despite wide variation across US states for this shorter radiation therapy treatment. As MA enrollment continues to expand, identifying the drivers of HF-WBI use and the sources of variation in costs of HF-WBI will help direct the quality of cancer care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loren Saulsberry
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Chuanhong Liao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dezheng Huo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sun Y, Saulsberry L, Liao C, Hedeker D, Huo D. Geographic and Physician-Level Variation in the Use of Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer in the U.S.: A Cross-Classified Multilevel Analysis. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101487. [PMID: 38725638 PMCID: PMC11078635 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2024.101487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose We aimed to assess geographic and physician-level variation for hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation (HF-WBI) use for early-stage breast cancer patients in the United States. We further evaluated the association between HF-WBI use and demographic factors after accounting for these variations. Methods and Materials We performed a retrospective study of early-stage breast cancer patients using private employer-sponsored insurance claims from 2008 to 2017. Patients were clustered according to geographic level and by radiation oncologist. Bayesian cross-classified multilevel logistic models were used to examine the geographic heterogeneity and variation of radiation oncologists simultaneously. Intracluster correlation coefficient (ICC) and median odds ratios (MOR) were calculated to quantify the variation at different levels. We also used the cross-classified model to identify patient demographic factors associated with receiving HF-WBI. Results The study included 79,747 women (74.0%) who received conventionally fractionated whole-breast irradiation (CF-WBI) and 27,999 women (26.0%) who underwent HF-WBI. HF-WBI adoption increased significantly across time (2008-2017). The variation in HF-WBI utilization was attributed mostly to physician-level variability (MOR = 2.59). The variability of HF-WBI utilization across core-based statistical areas (CBSAs) (MOR = 1.55) was found to be the strongest among all geographic classifications. After accounting for variability in both CBSAs and radiation oncologists, age, receiving chemotherapy, and several community-level factors, including distance from home to facility, community education level, and racial composition, were found to be associated with HF-WBI utilization. Conclusion This study demonstrated geographic and physician-level heterogeneity in the use of HF-WBI among early-stage breast cancer patients. HF-WBI utilization was also found to be associated with patient and community-level characteristics. Given observed physician-level variability, intervention through continuing medical education could help doctors to better understand the advantages of HF-WBI and promote the adoption of HF-WBI in the U.S. Influence of physician-level characteristics on HF-WBI utilization merits further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yijia Sun
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Loren Saulsberry
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Chuanhong Liao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Donald Hedeker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dezheng Huo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu Y, Hui B, Yang D, Li Y, Li B, Zhou L, Xu L, Tang F, Wang W, Chen R, Zhao D. Efficacy and safety analysis of hypofractionated and conventional fractionated radiotherapy in postoperative breast cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:181. [PMID: 38321381 PMCID: PMC10845660 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11918-2] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this meta-analysis, we conducted a comparative analysis of the safety and efficacy of hypofractionated and conventional fractionated radiotherapy in individuals who had undergone surgery for breast cancer. METHODS This study involved a systematic and independent review of relevant research articles published in reputable databases such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Two investigators conducted the review, which included studies published up to January 3, 2023. The quality of the eligible studies was evaluated and data were extracted using Review Manager software 5.4 (RevMan 5.4) to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS The analysis comprised 35 studies and encompassed a collective sample of 18,246 individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. We did not find a statistically significant disparity in efficacy between conventional fractionated (CF) radiotherapy and hypofractionated (HF) radiotherapy regarding local recurrence (LR; OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.76-1.09, P = 0.30), disease-free survival (DFS; OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01-1.42, P = 0.03), and overall survival (OS; OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.93-1.26, P = 0.28). Concerning safety, there was no significant difference between the HF and CF regimens in terms of breast pain, breast atrophy, lymphedema, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, telangiectasia, and cardiotoxicity. However, the HF regimen resulted in lower skin toxicity (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.33-0.55, P < 0.01) and improved patient fatigue outcomes (OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.60 - 0.88, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Although there is no substantial difference in LR, DFS, OS, or many other side effects between the HF and CF regimens, the HF regimen reduces skin toxicity and relieves patient fatigue. If these two issues need to be addressed in clinical situations, the HF regimen may be a superior alternative to conventional radiotherapy in postoperative breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongkai Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Beina Hui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Di Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Binglin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xi'an Central Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
| | - Luping Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fengwen Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710003, China
| | - Ruijuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xi'an Central Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Dongli Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wang T, Dossett LA. Incorporating Value-Based Decisions in Breast Cancer Treatment Algorithms. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2023; 32:777-797. [PMID: 37714643 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2023.05.008] [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: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Given the excellent prognosis and availability of evidence-based treatment, patients with early-stage breast cancer are at risk of overtreatment. In this review, we summarize key opportunities to incorporate value-based decisions to optimize the delivery of high-value treatment across the breast cancer care continuum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ton Wang
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lesly A Dossett
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Karim S, Doll CM, Dingley B, Merchant SJ, de Moraes FY, Booth CM. The Choosing Wisely Oncology Canada Cancer List: An Update. J Cancer Policy 2023; 37:100431. [PMID: 37391095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2023.100431] [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: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choosing Wisely (CW) Canada is a national campaign to identify unnecessary or harmful services that are frequently used in Canada. The original CW Oncology Canada Cancer list was developed in 2014. A CW Oncology Canada working group was established to review new evidence and guidelines and to update the current CW Oncology Canada Cancer List. METHODS Between January and March 2022, we conducted a survey of members of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncology (CAMO), Canadian Association of Radiation Oncology (CARO) and the Canadian Society of Surgical Oncology (CSSO). We took the feedback from the survey, including potential new recommendations as well as those that were thought to be no longer relevant and up to date, and conducted a literature review with the assistance of the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technology in Health (CADTH). The final updated list of recommendations was made by the CW Oncology Canada working group based on a consensus process. RESULTS We reviewed two potential recommendations to add and two potential recommendations to remove from the existing CW Oncology Canada Cancer List. The recommendation "Do not prescribe whole brain radiation over stereotactic radiosurgery for patient with limited brain metastases (≤4 lesions)" was supported by several evidence-based guidelines with the strength of recommendations ranging from strong to moderate and the quality of evidence ranging from level 1 to level 3. After reviewing the evidence, the working group felt that the other potential recommendation to add and the two potential recommendations to remove did not have sufficient strength and quality of evidence at this time to be added or removed from the list. CONCLUSION The updated Choosing Wisely Oncology Canada Cancer List consists of 11 items that oncologists should question in the treatment of patients with cancer. This list can be used to design specific interventions to reduce low value care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Safiya Karim
- Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Corinne M Doll
- Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Shaila J Merchant
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's University Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Fabio Ynoe de Moraes
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's University Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher M Booth
- Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's University Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Marta GN, Moraes FY, de Oliveira Franco RC, de Andrade Carvalho H, Gouveia AG, de Lima Gössling GC, de Jesus RG, Ferraris G, Schuffenegger PM, Bardales GS, Chacón MAP, Murillo R, Sánchez LEM, Gamarra-Cabezas E, Rosa AA, da Silva MF, de Mattos MD, Morais DCR, de Castro DG, Dal Pra A, Amêndola BE, Barros JM, Lara TM, Isa N, de la Mata Moya D, Hidalgo I, Velilla DG, Loayza LEA, Montenegro FG, Sanchez Chacin NO, Werutsky G, Viani GA. Moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy for breast cancer: preferences amongst radiation oncologists from countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2023; 28:340-351. [PMID: 37795395 PMCID: PMC10547413 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2023.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The safety and effectiveness of moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy for breast cancer were demonstrated by several trials. This study aimed to evaluate the current patterns of practice and prescription preference about moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy to assess possible aspects that affect the decision-making process regarding the use of fractionation in breast cancer patients in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). We also aimed to identify factors that can restrain the utilization of moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy for breast cancer. Materials an methods Radiation oncologists from LAC were invited to contribute to this study. A 38-question survey was used to evaluate their opinions. Results A total of 173 radiation oncologists from 13 countries answered the questionnaire. The majority of respondents (84.9%) preferred moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy as their first choice in cases of whole breast irradiation. Whole breast plus regional nodal irradiation, post-mastectomy (chest wall and regional nodal irradiation) without reconstruction, and post-mastectomy (chest wall and regional node irradiation) with reconstruction hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy was preferred by 72.2% 71.1%, and 53.7% of respondents, respectively. Breast cancer stage, and flap-based breast reconstruction were the factors associated with absolute contraindications for the use of hypofractionated schedules. Conclusion Even though moderately hypofractionated post-operative radiation therapy for breast cancer is considered a new standard to the vast majority of the patients, its unrestricted application in clinical practice across LAC still faces reluctance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Nader Marta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
| | - Fabio Y. Moraes
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Queen’s University — Kingston Health Science Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Heloísa de Andrade Carvalho
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Department of Radiology and Oncology — Radiotherapy Division — Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Guimaraes Gouveia
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Juravinski Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Pablo Munoz Schuffenegger
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Department of Hematology — Oncology, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Chile
| | | | | | - Raúl Murillo
- Centro Javeriano de Oncología, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogota, Colombia
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Luis Ernesto Moreno Sánchez
- Instituto Nacional del Cáncer Rosa De Tavares (INCART), Savia Care Centro Avanzado de Radioterapia, Centro Gamma Knife Dominicano, Dominican Republic
| | - Elizabeth Gamarra-Cabezas
- Departamento de Radio-Oncología, Instituto Oncológico Nacional “Dr. Juan Tanca Marengo”
- Sociedad de Lucha Contra el Cáncer (SOLCA), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Arthur Accioly Rosa
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Oncoclinicas Salvador — Hospital Santa Izabel
| | - Maurício Fraga da Silva
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Santa Maria Federal University, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
- Clínica de Radioterapia de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Diego Chaves Rezende Morais
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Oncoclinicas Recife and Hospital Santa Águeda, Brazil
| | - Douglas Guedes de Castro
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, A.C. Camargo Cancer Center, Brazil
| | - Alan Dal Pra
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, United States
| | | | - José Máximo Barros
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Departamento de Radio-Oncología, Instituto Oncológico Nacional “Dr. Juan Tanca Marengo”
- Centro de Radioterapia del Hospital Universitario Austral, Argentina
| | - Tomas Merino Lara
- Department of Hematology Oncology, school of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Chile
| | | | - Dolores de la Mata Moya
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Cancer Center — ABC Medical Center, Mexico
| | - Iván Hidalgo
- Centro Javeriano de Oncología — Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Colombia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gustavo Arruda Viani
- Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), Brazil
- Ribeirão Preto Medical School, Department of Medical Imagings, Hematology and Oncology of University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Finn CB, Sharpe JE, Tong JK, Kaufman EJ, Wachtel H, Aarons CB, Weissman GE, Kelz RR. Development of a Machine Learning Model to Identify Colorectal Cancer Stage in Medicare Claims. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2023; 7:e2300003. [PMID: 37257142 PMCID: PMC10530805 DOI: 10.1200/cci.23.00003] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Staging information is essential for colorectal cancer research. Medicare claims are an important source of population-level data but currently lack oncologic stage. We aimed to develop a claims-based model to identify stage at diagnosis in patients with colorectal cancer. METHODS We included patients age 66 years or older with colorectal cancer in the SEER-Medicare registry. Using patients diagnosed from 2014 to 2016, we developed models (multinomial logistic regression, elastic net regression, and random forest) to classify patients into stage I-II, III, or IV on the basis of demographics, diagnoses, and treatment utilization identified in Medicare claims. Models developed in a training cohort (2014-2016) were applied to a testing cohort (2017), and performance was evaluated using cancer stage listed in the SEER registry as the reference standard. RESULTS The cohort of patients with 30,543 colorectal cancer included 14,935 (48.9%) patients with stage I-II, 9,203 (30.1%) with stage III, and 6,405 (21%) with stage IV disease. A claims-based model using elastic net regression had a scaled Brier score (SBS) of 0.45 (95% CI, 0.43 to 0.46). Performance was strongest for classifying stage IV (SBS, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.64; sensitivity, 93%; 95% CI, 91 to 94) followed by stage I-II (SBS, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.44 to 0.47; sensitivity, 86%; 95% CI, 85 to 76) and stage III (SBS, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.30 to 0.33; sensitivity, 62%; 95% CI, 61 to 64). CONCLUSION Machine learning models effectively classified colorectal cancer stage using Medicare claims. These models extend the ability of claims-based research to risk-adjust and stratify by stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin B. Finn
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgery and Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Leonard David Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - James E. Sharpe
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgery and Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jason K. Tong
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgery and Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Leonard David Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Elinore J. Kaufman
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgery and Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Leonard David Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Heather Wachtel
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Cary B. Aarons
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Gary E. Weissman
- Leonard David Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Rachel R. Kelz
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgery and Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Leonard David Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lee W, Carlson JJ, Basu A, Veenstra D. Quantifying the value of older adult-specific clinical trials: Post-lumpectomy irradiation among older adults with early-stage breast cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101487. [PMID: 37075565 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2023.101487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although there is increasing interest in conducting cancer clinical trials in older adults, the benefit of such trials is unclear. We aimed to quantify the real-world clinical and economic effects of two phase 3 trials (CALGB 9343 and PRIME II) which showed that post-lumpectomy radiation therapy (RT) improves loco-regional recurrence but makes no improvement in overall survival among older women with early-stage breast cancer (ESBC). MATERIALS AND METHODS We developed a health-transition model to quantify the incremental clinical and economic outcomes between scenarios with vs. without older adult-specific trial results from a societal perspective between 2004 and 2018. The transition probabilities in the model were mainly derived from the 10-year results of CALGB 9343. The total number of the affected patient population in the US and the change in the probability of omitting post-lumpectomy RT due to the CALGB 9343 and PRIME II results were derived from a retrospective analysis of the SEER registry data for patients with ESBC. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to calculate the 95% credible interval (CR) of the incremental clinical and economic outcomes between the two scenarios. RESULTS Between 2004 and 2018, 32,936 (95% CR: 31,512, 34,357) fewer patients received post-lumpectomy RT among those aged 70 years or older diagnosed with ESBC in the US and there was a decrease cost of $419 M USD (95% CR: -$238 M, -$689 M) in scenarios with vs. without older adult-specific trial results. The difference in projected life years (1083 years, 95% CI: -2542, 7985) and QALYs (866 years, 95% CI: -2561, 7780) were not significant. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100 k/QALY, the probability of older adult-specific trial results generating a positive net monetary benefit was 98%. DISCUSSION The CALGB 9343 and PRIME II trial results were associated with a substantial cost-saving in the US society. Our results suggest that older adult-specific clinical trials that demonstrate no survival benefit of an intervention in older adults could be correlated with a significant monetary benefit. Further case studies are needed for different types of older adult-specific trials to understand the value of older adult-specific trials comprehensively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woojung Lee
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, USA.
| | - Josh J Carlson
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, USA
| | - Anirban Basu
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, USA
| | - David Veenstra
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gharzai LA, Jagsi R. Incorporating financial toxicity considerations into clinical trial design to facilitate patient-centered decision-making in oncology. Cancer 2023; 129:1143-1148. [PMID: 36775839 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Financial toxicity is increasingly being recognized as an important and devastating consequence of cancer treatment that receives little attention when clinical trials are being designed. There is a significant need to obtain this important information in an era of increasingly expensive anticancer treatments. Patients who are informed of all implications of therapy-efficacy, side effects, cost, and broader financial impact-are able to select the best cancer treatment for themselves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Reshma Jagsi
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Milligan MG, Orav EJ, Lam MB. Determinants of Commercial Prices for Common Radiation Therapy Procedures. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 115:23-33. [PMID: 36309073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.04.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using hospital-reported price data, we analyzed whether various market factors including radiation oncology practice consolidation were associated with higher commercial prices for radiation therapy (RT). METHODS AND MATERIALS We evaluated commercial prices paid by private insurers for 4 common RT procedures-intensity modulated RT (IMRT) planning, IMRT delivery, 3-dimensional RT (3D-RT) planning, and 3D-RT delivery-reported among the 2096 hospitals in the United States that deliver RT according to the Medicare Provider of Service file. To assess price variation within hospitals, we evaluated the ratio of the 90th percentile price to the 10th percentile price among different private insurers. To assess regional variation, we similarly compared median commercial prices at the 90th and 10th percentile hospitals in each Hospital Referral Region. We generated multivariable models to test the association of various hospital, health system, regional, and market factors on median hospital commercial prices. RESULTS A total of 1004 hospitals (47.9%) reported at least 1 commercial price for any of the 4 RT procedures considered in this study. National median commercial prices for IMRT planning and IMRT delivery were $4073 (interquartile ratio [IQR], $2242-$6305) and $1666 (IQR, $1014-$2619), respectively. Prices for 3D-RT planning and 3D-RT delivery were $2824 (IQR, $1339-$4738) and $616 (IQR, $419-877), respectively. Within hospitals, the 90th percentile price paid by a private insurer was 2.3 to 2.5 times higher on average than the 10th percentile price, depending on the procedure. Within each Hospital Referral Region, the median price at the 90th percentile hospital was between 2.4 and 3.2 times higher than at the 10th percentile hospital. On multivariable analysis, higher prices were generally observed at hospitals with for-profit ownership, teaching status, and affiliation with large health systems. Levels of radiation oncology practice consolidation were not significantly associated with any prices. CONCLUSIONS Commercial prices for common RT procedures vary by more than a factor of 2 depending on a patient's private insurer and hospital of choice. Higher prices were more likely to be found at for-profit hospitals, teaching hospitals, and hospitals affiliated with large health systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Milligan
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - E John Orav
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Miranda B Lam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nugent K, Quinlan E, Cleary S, O'Driscoll H, Rohan C, Trousdell J, Williams J, Dunne M, McArdle O, Duane F. Implementation of 26 Gy in five fractions over 1 week adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer: Prospective report of acute skin toxicity and consideration of resource implications. Breast 2022; 67:55-61. [PMID: 36603414 PMCID: PMC9756602 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2022.12.008] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In March 2020, a 1-week adjuvant breast radiotherapy schedule, 26 Gy in 5 fractions, was adopted to reduce the risk of COVID19 for staff and patients. This study quantifies acute toxicity rates and the effect on linac capacity. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a report of consecutive patients receiving ultrafractionated breast radiotherapy ( ± sequential boost) Mar-Aug 2020. Virtual consultations assessed acute skin toxicity during treatment and weeks 1, 2, 3 and 4 post treatment using CTCAE V5 scoring criteria. The number of linac minutes saved was estimated accounting for boost and DIBH use. RESULTS In total, 128/135 (95%) patients, including 31/33 boost patients, completed at least 3/5 assessments. 0/128 (0%) reported moist desquamation not confined to skin folds or minor bleeding (Grade 3), 41/128 (32%) reported brisk erythema, moist desquamation confined to skin folds or breast swelling (Grade 2), 62/128 (48%) reported faint erythema or dry desquamation (Grade 1) as their worst skin toxicity, with the remaining 20% reporting no skin toxicity. The highest prevalence of grade 2 toxicity occurred week 1 following treatment (20%), reducing to 3% by week 4. There was no difference in toxicity between those who received a boost versus not (p = 1.00). Delivering this schedule to 135 patients over six months saved 21,300 linac minutes and 1485 hospital visits compared to a 3-week schedule. CONCLUSION Rapidly implementing ultrahypofractionated breast radiotherapy is feasible and acute toxicity rates are acceptable even when followed by boost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Nugent
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - E. Quinlan
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S. Cleary
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - H. O'Driscoll
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C. Rohan
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - J. Trousdell
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - J. Williams
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - M. Dunne
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - O McArdle
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - F.K. Duane
- St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, St. Luke's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland,Trinity St James's Cancer Institute, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland,Corresponding author. St Luke's Radiation Oncology Network and Trinity St. James's Cancer Institute, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bruand M, Salleron J, Guihard S, Crety CM, Liem X, Pasquier D, Lamrani-Ghaouti A, Charra-Brunaud C, Peiffert D, Clavier JB, Desandes E, Faivre JC. Acute skin toxicity of conventional fractionated versus hypofractionated radiotherapy in breast cancer patients receiving regional node irradiation: the real-life prospective multicenter HYPOBREAST cohort. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1318. [PMID: 36526987 PMCID: PMC9755801 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10402-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large-scale trials have shown that hypofractionated adjuvant breast radiotherapy was as effective in terms of survival and local control as conventional fractionated radiotherapy, and acute toxicity was reduced with hypofractionated radiotherapy. However, there is a lack of data about the toxicity of breast with regional nodal irradiation (RNI). The aim of this study was to assess the effect of fractionation on radiation-related acute skin toxicity in patients receiving RNI in addition to whole-breast or chest wall irradiation, using real-life data. METHODS We conducted a prospective, multicenter cohort study with systematic computerized data collection integrated into Mosaiq®. Three comprehensive cancer centers used a standardized form to prospectively collect patient characteristics, treatment characteristics and toxicity. RESULTS Between November 2016 and January 2022, 1727 patients were assessed; 1419 (82.2%) and 308 (17.8%) patients respectively received conventional fractionated and hypofractionated radiation therapy. Overall, the incidence of acute grade 2 or higher dermatitis was 28.4% (490 patients). Incidence was lower with hypofractionated than with conventional fractioned radiation therapy (odds ratio (OR) 0.34 [0.29;0.41]). Two prognostic factors were found to increase the risk of acute dermatitis, namely 3D (vs IMRT) and breast irradiation (vs chest wall). CONCLUSION Using real-life data from unselected patients with regional nodal irradiation, our findings confirm the decreased risk of dermatitis previously reported with hypofractionated radiation therapy in clinical trials. Expansion of systematic data collection systems to include additional centers as well as dosimetric data is warranted to further evaluate the short- and long-term effects of fractionation in real life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Bruand
- grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Academic Department of Radiation Therapy & Brachytherapy, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine – Unicancer, 6 avenue de Bourgogne - CS, 30 519 54519 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France ,grid.29172.3f0000 0001 2194 6418EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Julia Salleron
- grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Unité de biostatistiques, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine, 54519 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Sébastien Guihard
- grid.512000.6Service de Radiothérapie, ICANS - Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Charles Marchand Crety
- grid.418448.50000 0001 0131 9695Service de Radiothérapie, Institut Jean Godinot, 51100 Reims, France
| | - Xavier Liem
- grid.452351.40000 0001 0131 6312Service de Radiothérapie, Centre Oscar Lambret, 59000 Lille, France
| | - David Pasquier
- grid.452351.40000 0001 0131 6312Service de Radiothérapie, Centre Oscar Lambret, 59000 Lille, France ,grid.503422.20000 0001 2242 6780RIStAL, UMR 9189, Université de Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | | | - Claire Charra-Brunaud
- grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Academic Department of Radiation Therapy & Brachytherapy, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine – Unicancer, 6 avenue de Bourgogne - CS, 30 519 54519 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France
| | - Didier Peiffert
- grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Academic Department of Radiation Therapy & Brachytherapy, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine – Unicancer, 6 avenue de Bourgogne - CS, 30 519 54519 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France ,grid.29172.3f0000 0001 2194 6418EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Clavier
- grid.512000.6Service de Radiothérapie, ICANS - Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 67200 Strasbourg, France
| | - Emmanuel Desandes
- grid.29172.3f0000 0001 2194 6418EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France ,grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Service en Charge des Données de Santé, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine, 54519 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Faivre
- grid.452436.20000 0000 8775 4825Academic Department of Radiation Therapy & Brachytherapy, Institut de Cancérologie de Lorraine – Unicancer, 6 avenue de Bourgogne - CS, 30 519 54519 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Xie J, Xu F, Zhao Y, Cai G, Lin X, Zhu Q, Lin Q, Yao Y, Xu C, Cai R, Wang S, Tang X, Chen C, Zheng S, Chen M, Chen M, Qian X, Shen C, Li J, Xu H, Xu F, Han Y, Li M, Ou D, Shen KW, Qi WX, Cao L, Huang X, Chen J. Hypofractionated versus conventional intensity-modulated radiation irradiation (HARVEST-adjuvant): study protocol for a randomised non-inferior multicentre phase III trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062034. [PMID: 36581983 PMCID: PMC9438188 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Short course regimen has become the major trend in the field of adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with breast cancer. Hypofractionated radiotherapy (HF-RT) regimen of 40-42.5 Gy in 15-16 fractions has been established as a preferred option for whole breast irradiation. However, few evidences of hypofractionated regional nodal irradiation (RNI), especially involving internal mammary nodes (IMNs), could be available during the era of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Against this background, we design this trial to explore the hypothesis that HF-RT regimen involving RNI (including infraclavicular, supraclavicular nodes and IMNs) will be non-inferior to a standard schedule by using IMRT technique. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is an open-label randomised, non-inferior, multicentre phase III trial. Patients with breast cancer with an indication for RNI after breast conserving surgery or mastectomy are randomised at a ratio of 1:1 into the following two groups: hypofractionated regimen of 2.67 Gy for 16 fractions or conventional regimen of 2 Gy for 25 fractions. The dose was prescribed to ipsilateral chest wall or whole breast and RNI (including infraclavicular, supraclavicular nodes and IMNs, lower axilla if indicated). The trial plans to enrol a total of 801 patients and all patients will be treated using IMRT technique. The primary endpoint is 5-year locoregional recurrence. The secondary endpoints include 5-year distant metastasis free survival, invasive recurrence-free survival, overall survival, accumulative acute radiation-induced toxicity and accumulative late radiation-induced toxicity, cosmetic outcomes and quality of life. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the Ethical Committee of Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (version 2018-95-3) and approvals from ethical committee of each participating centre have also been obtained. Research findings will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03829553.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinrong Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Yutian Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Yat-Sen Breast Tumor Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital,Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Centre, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiwei Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Yao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Shubei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolu Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuying Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyue Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofang Qian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhong Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Li
- Clinical Research Centre, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong university School of Medicine, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoping Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Yimin Han
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Ou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Wei Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Centre, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Xiang Qi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- Yat-Sen Breast Tumor Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital,Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Centre, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen X, Yang TX, Xia YX, Shen Q, Hou Y, Wang L, Li L, Chang L, Li WH. Optimal radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery for early breast cancer: A network meta-analysis of 23,418 patients. Cancer Radiother 2022; 26:1054-1063. [PMID: 36036359 DOI: 10.1016/j.canrad.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In order to explore whether partial breast irradiation can replace hypofractionated whole breast irradiation and whether the former two are superior to conventional fractionated whole breast irradiation, we conducted a network meta-analysis based on the data from the latest randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of these radiotherapy modalities. MATERIAL AND METHODS Data from eligible studies were analyzed to determine the published events for ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence, distant metastasis, total deaths, and non-breast cancer-related deaths. In the case of low or high heterogeneity, the fixed-effect or random-effect model was used for statistical analysis respectively. NMA was performed by using the node-splitting model for two-category data among three radiotherapies based on a Bayesian method. RESULTS A total of 23,418 patients were included in 16 studies. For ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence, both pairwise (OR=1.9; CI95%: 1.2 -2.8; p<0.05) and indirect (OR=1.7; CI95%: 1.2 -2.4; p<0.05) comparison of three radiotherapies by network meta-analysis showed that conventional fractionated whole breast irradiation was significantly better than partial breast irradiation. Indirect comparison of three radiotherapies by network meta-analysis showed that hypofractionated whole breast irradiation was significantly better than partial breast irradiation (OR=1.6; CI95%: 1.0 -2.5; p<0.05). Network and paired meta-analyses found no significant differences in other endpoints among the three radiotherapies. CONCLUSION Overall, this network meta-analysis showed that partial breast irradiation was related to the increase of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence compared with hypofractionated or conventional fractionated whole breast irradiation in patients with early-stage breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - T-X Yang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan Institute of Urology, No. 374 Dian-Mian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - Y-X Xia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - Q Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - Y Hou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - L Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - L Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China
| | - L Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China.
| | - W-H Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Tumor Hospital of Yunnan Province, NO. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650101, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lamm R, Woodward SG, Varshney K, Lyons W, Anne PR, George BJ, Willis AI. A comparison of timely completion of hypofractionated and traditional adjuvant radiation therapy in early-stage breast cancer: Evidence of impact on reducing racial and socioeconomic disparities. Surgery 2022; 172:31-40. [PMID: 35489980 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2022.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely completion of adjuvant radiation after breast conservation therapy is associated with decreased mortality and increased disease-free survival. Few data exist comparing timely completion between hypofractionated radiation and traditional radiation at a national level or across racial and socioeconomic cohorts. METHODS A retrospective review of the National Cancer Database (2012-2016) on patients undergoing breast conservation therapy for early-stage breast cancer, specifically T1 or T2, N0, M0 patients, was performed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to compare timely completion of hypofractionated radiation (within 5 weeks of initiation) and traditional radiation (within 7 weeks) across patient, tumor, and facility characteristics. RESULTS In total, 210,816 patients met criteria, with 59.4% receiving traditional radiation (n = 125,140) and 40.6% receiving hypofractionated radiation (n = 85,676). Overall, 82.8% of patients achieved timely completion of radiation. Among hypofractionated radiation patients, 94.5% of patients achieved timely completion, whereas only 74.8% of traditional radiation patients achieved timely completion (P < .0001). Regarding race/ethnicity, all groups benefited substantially in timely completion of hypofractionated radiation over traditional radiation. However, both treatment cohorts demonstrated that Black (odds ratio (hypofractionated radiation) = 0.842, odds ratio (traditional radiation) = 0.821) and Hispanic (odds ratio (hypofractionated radiation) = 0.917, odds ratio (traditional radiation) = 0.907) patients had lower odds of timely completion compared to White patients (P < .0001). Lower high school graduation rate, median income for patients' ZIP code, and Medicaid were also associated with lower odds of timely completion for both hypofractionated radiation and traditional radiation (both P < .0001). CONCLUSION Timely completion of radiation therapy in breast conservation therapy is greater for patients receiving hypofractionated radiation than traditional radiation across racial and socioeconomic cohorts. Disparities in timely completion were substantially reduced with hypofractionated radiation utilization. However, there are treatment disparities across racial and socioeconomic cohorts that persist in both treatment groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Lamm
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Steven G Woodward
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Karan Varshney
- Thomas Jefferson University, College of Population Health, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Walker Lyons
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Pramila R Anne
- Deparment of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Brandon J George
- Thomas Jefferson University, College of Population Health, Philadelphia, PA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Biostatistics, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Alliric I Willis
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As breast cancer treatment options have multiplied and biologic diversity within breast cancer has been recognized, the use of the same treatment strategies for patients with early-stage and favorable disease, and for those with biologically aggressive disease, has been questioned. In addition, as patient-reported outcome measures have called attention to the morbidity of many common treatments, and as the cost of breast cancer care has continued to increase, reduction in the overtreatment of breast cancer has assumed increasing importance. AREAS COVERED Here we review selected aspects of surgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology for which scientific evidence supports de-escalation for invasive carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ, and assess strategies to address overtreatment. EXPERT OPINION The problems of breast cancer overtreatment we face today are based on improved understanding of the biology of breast cancer and abandonment of the 'one-size-fits-all' approach. As breast cancer care becomes increasingly complex, and as our knowledge base continues to increase exponentially, these problems will only be magnified in the future. To continue progress, the move must be made from advocating the maximum-tolerated treatment to advocating the minimum-effective one.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Pak
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York
| | - Monica Morrow
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sarria GR, Welzel G, Polednik M, Wenz F, Abo-Madyan Y. Prospective Comparison of Hypofractionated Versus Normofractionated Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer: Late Toxicity Results of the Non-Inferiority KOSIMA Trial (ARO2010-3). Front Oncol 2022; 12:824891. [PMID: 35600361 PMCID: PMC9117716 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.824891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare the late toxicity profile of hypofractionation and normofractionation for whole-breast radiotherapy in breast cancer (BC) patients after conserving surgery. Methods Sixty-year-old or older patients with pTis-pT3, pN0-pN1a, M0 BC were recruited and stratified to hypofractionated (arm R-HF) or normofractionated (arm L-NF) intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), for right- and left-sided BC, respectively, in this single-center, non-randomized, non-inferiority trial. A boost was allowed if indicated. The primary outcome was the cumulative percentage of patients developing grade III fibrosis, grade I telangiectasia, and/or grade II hyperpigmentation after 2 years, with a pre-specified non-inferiority margin of 15% increase from an expected 2-year toxicity rate of 20%. Results The Median follow-up was 4.93 (0.57-8.65) years for R-HF and 5.02 (0.65-8.72) years for L-NF (p=0.236). The median age was 68 (60-83 and 60-80) years, respectively. In total, 226 patients were recruited (107 for R-HF and 119 for L-NF), with 100 and 117 patients suitable for assessment, respectively. A boost was delivered in 51% and 53% of each arm, respectively. Median PTV volumes were 1013.6 (273-2805) cm3 (R-HF) and 1058.28 (315-2709) cm3 (L-NF, p=0.591). The 2-year primary endpoint rate was 6.1% (95% CI 1.3-11.7, n=5 of 82) and 13.3% (95% CI 7-20.2, n=14 of 105), respectively (absolute difference -7.2%, one-sided 95% CI ∞ to -0.26, favoring R-HF). No local recurrence-free- or overall-survival differences were found. Conclusion In this prospective non-randomized study, hypofractionation did not have higher toxicity than normofractionated whole-breast IMRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo R. Sarria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Grit Welzel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Polednik
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frederik Wenz
- University Medical Center Freiburg, Medical Faculty Freiburg, Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yasser Abo-Madyan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Batumalai V, James M. Unwarranted variation in radiation therapy fractionation. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:233-241. [PMID: 35243787 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The adoption of hypofractionation across multiple tumour sites has been slow despite robust evidence. There is considerable unwarranted variation in practice, both within and between jurisdictions. This has been attributed to inconsistencies in guidelines, physician preference, lack of technology and differing financial incentives. Unwarranted variation in the use of hypofractionation has a tremendous effect on cost to both patients and the healthcare system. This places an unnecessary burden on patients and poorly utilises scarce healthcare resources. A collaborative effort from clinicians, patients, healthcare providers and policymakers is needed to reduce unwarranted variation in practice. This will improve quality of care both for patients and at broader healthcare system level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikneswary Batumalai
- Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes, Research and Evaluation, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, South Western Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,GenesisCare, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melissa James
- Christchurch Oncology Service, Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand.,Department of Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer: Financial Risk and Expenditures in the United States, 2008 to 2017. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 112:654-662. [PMID: 34637883 PMCID: PMC9212189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rising cancer care expenditures and technological advancement of shorter radiation therapy regimens have drawn significant attention to the use of hypofractionated radiation therapy in clinical care. We examine the costs of hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (HF-WBI) compared with conventional whole breast irradiation (CF-WBI) in the United States and investigate the influences of patient characteristics and commercial insurance on HF-WBI use. METHODS AND MATERIALS In a retrospective study using private employer-sponsored insurance claims, a pooled cross-sectional evaluation of radiation therapy in patients with commercial insurance was performed from 2008 to 2017. The study population included female patients with early-stage breast cancer treated with lumpectomy and whole breast irradiation. RESULTS A total of 15,869 women received HF-WBI, and 59,328 received CF-WBI. HF-WBI use increased from 2008 to 2017. Community-level factors such as a higher proportion of college graduates and greater mixed racial composition were associated with increased HF-WBI use. Mean insurer-paid radiation therapy expenditures were significantly lower for HF-WBI versus CF-WBI (adjusted difference, $6375; 95% confidence interval, $6147-$6603). Mean patient out-of-pocket expenditure for HF-WBI was $139 less than that for CF-WBI. Geographic variation existed across the United States in HF-WBI use (range, 9.6%-36.2%), with no consistent relationship between HF-WBI use and corresponding average cost differences between HF-WBI and CF-WBI. CONCLUSIONS If trends continue, HF-WBI will soon become the dominant form of radiation treatment in the United States. Although HF-WBI represents significant savings to the health care system and individual patients, no evidence indicated that a financial disincentive had slowed adoption of HF-WBI. Therefore, multilevel approaches, including individuals, the community, and health policy, should be used to promote cost-effective cancer care. Innovations to policies on cost-effective radiation therapy treatment might consider non-financial incentives to promote HF-WBI use.
Collapse
|
22
|
Corrigan KL, Lei X, Ahmad N, Arzu I, Bloom E, Chun SG, Goodman C, Hoffman KE, Joyner M, Mayo L, Mitchell M, Nead KT, Perkins GH, Reed V, Reddy JP, Schlembach P, Shaitelman SF, Stauder MC, Strom EA, Tereffe W, Wiederhold L, Woodward WA, Smith BD. Adoption of Ultrahypofractionated Radiation Therapy in Patients With Breast Cancer. Adv Radiat Oncol 2022; 7:100877. [PMID: 35387420 PMCID: PMC8977907 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2021.100877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The first high-quality clinical trial to support ultrahypofractionated whole-breast irradiation (ultra-HF-WBI) for invasive early-stage breast cancer (ESBC) was published in April 2020, coinciding with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed adoption of ultra-HF-WBI for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and ESBC at our institution after primary trial publication. Methods and Materials We evaluated radiation fractionation prescriptions for all patients with DCIS or ESBC treated with WBI from March 2020 to May 2021 at our main campus and regional campuses. Demographic and clinical characteristics were extracted from the electronic medical record. Treating physician characteristics were collected from licensure data. Hierarchical logistic regression models identified factors correlated with adoption of ultra-HF-WBI (26 Gy in 5 daily factions [UK-FAST-FORWARD] or 28.5 Gy in 5 weekly fractions [UK-FAST]). Results Of 665 included patients, the median age was 61.5 years, and 478 patients (71.9%) had invasive, hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. Twenty-one physicians treated the included patients. In total, 249 patients (37.4%) received ultra-HF-WBI, increasing from 4.3% (2 of 46) in March-April 2020 to a high of 45.5% (45 of 99) in July-August 2020 (P < .001). Patient factors associated with increased use of ultra-HF-WBI included older age (≥50 years old), low-grade WBI without inclusion of the low axilla, no radiation boost, and farther travel distance (P < .03). Physician variation accounted for 21.7% of variance in the outcome, with rate of use of ultra-HF-WBI by the treating physicians ranging from 0% to 75.6%. No measured physician characteristics were associated with use of ultra-HF-WBI. Conclusions Adoption of ultra-HF-WBI at our institution increased substantially after the publication of randomized evidence supporting its use. Ultra-HF-WBI was preferentially used in patients with lower risk disease, suggesting careful selection for this new approach while long-term data are maturing. Substantial physician-level variation may reflect a lack of consensus on the evidentiary standards required to change practice.
Collapse
|
23
|
Jagsi R, Schipper M, Mietzel M, Pandya R, Moran JM, Matuszak M, Vicini F, Jolly S, Paximadis P, Mancini B, Griffith K, Hayman J, Pierce L, On Behalf Of The Michigan Radiation Oncology Quality Consortium Mroqc. The Michigan Radiation Oncology Quality Consortium: A Novel Initiative to Improve the Quality of Radiation Oncology Care. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 113:257-265. [PMID: 35124133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Numerous quality measures have been proposed in radiation oncology, and initiatives to improve access to high-complexity care, quality, and equity are needed. We describe the design and evaluate impact of a voluntary statewide collaboration for quality improvement in radiation oncology initiated a decade ago. METHODS AND MATERIALS We evaluate compliance before and since implementation of annual metrics for quality improvement, using an observational dataset with information from over 20,000 patients treated in the 28 participating radiation oncology practices. At thrice-yearly meetings, experts have spoken regarding trends within the field and inspired discussions regarding potential targets for quality improvement. Blinded data on practices at various sites have been provided. Following Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence (SQUIRE) guidelines, we describe the approach and measures the program has implemented. To evaluate impact, we compare compliance at baseline and now with active measures using mixed effects regression models with site-level random effects. RESULTS Compliance has increased, including use of guideline-concordant hypofractionated radiotherapy, doses to targets/normal tissues, motion management, and consistency in delineating and naming contoured structures (a precondition for quality evaluation). For example, use of guideline-concordant hypofractionation for breast cancer increased from 47% to 97%, adherence to target coverage goals and heart dose limits for dose increased from 46% to 86%, motion assessment in patients with lung cancer increased from 52% to 94%, and use of standard nomenclature increased from 53% to 82% for lung patients and from 80% to 94% for breast patients (all p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although observational analysis cannot fully exclude secular trends, contextual data revealing slow uptake of best practices elsewhere in the US and qualitative feedback from participants suggests that this initiative has improved the consistency, efficiency, and quality of radiation oncology care in its member practices and may be a model for oncology quality improvement more generally.
Collapse
|
24
|
Verbanck S, Van Parijs H, Schuermans D, Vinh-Hung V, Storme G, Fontaine C, De Ridder M, Verellen D, Vanderhelst E, Hanon S. Lung Restriction in Breast Cancer Patients after Hypofractionated Tomotherapy and Conventional 3D Conformal Radiotherapy: a 10-year Follow-up. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 113:561-569. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
25
|
Has Hypofractionated Whole-Breast Radiation Therapy Become the Standard of Care in the United States? An Updated Report from National Cancer Database. Clin Breast Cancer 2022; 22:e8-e20. [PMID: 34257001 PMCID: PMC8934112 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2021.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND We aimed to update the previous evaluation of hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation (HF-WBI) use over time in the United States and factors related to its adoption for patients undergoing a lumpectomy from 2004 to 2016. MATERIALS AND METHODS Among the patients who underwent a lumpectomy, we identified 688,079 patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer and 248,218 patients with ductal carcinoma in situ in the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2016. We defined HF-WBI as 2.5 to 3.33 Gy/fraction to the breast and conventional fractionated whole-breast irradiation as 1.8 to 2.0 Gy/fraction. We evaluated the trend of HF-WBI use and examined factors associated with HF-WBI use using logistic regression models. RESULTS Among invasive cancer patients, the use of HF-WBI increased exponentially from 0.7% in 2004 to 15.6% in 2013 and then to 38.1% in 2016. Among patients with ductal carcinoma in situ, the use of HF-WBI has increased significantly from 0.42% in 2004 to 13.4% in 2013 and then to 34.3% in 2016. Factors found to be associated with HF-WBI use included age, patient geographical location, race/ethnicity, tumor stage, grade, treating facility type, and volume. CONCLUSION HF-WBI use in the United States has more than doubled from 2013 to 2016. Although its use is close to that of conventional fractionated whole-breast irradiation, HF-WBI is still far from the preferred standard of care in the United States. We identified several patient and facility factors that can impact the uptake of HF-WBI treatment. Microabstract Using the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2016, we evaluated the trend of hypofractionated whole-breast radiation therapy use and factors associated with use. Use in the United States has more than doubled from 2013 to 2016, but it has not become the standard of care. We identified several patient and facility factors that impact the uptake of hypofractionated whole-breast radiation therapy treatment.
Collapse
|
26
|
Chuang WK, Cheng SHC, Hung CF, Huang TT, Jen CW, Yen JH, Tsai YC. Comparison between the use of hypofractionated and conventionally fractionated radiotherapy in early breast cancer: A single-center real-world study in Taiwan. J Formos Med Assoc 2022; 121:1588-1595. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2022.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
|
27
|
Differences in Time Burden across Local Therapy Strategies for Early-stage Breast Cancer. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2021; 9:e3904. [PMID: 34745797 PMCID: PMC8568370 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000003904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
"Time burden" (time required during treatment) is relevant when choosing a local therapy option for early-stage breast cancer but has not been rigorously studied. We compared the time burden for three common local therapies for breast cancer: (1) lumpectomy plus whole-breast irradiation (Lump+WBI), (2) mastectomy without radiation or reconstruction (Mast alone), and (3) mastectomy without radiation but with reconstruction (Mast+Recon). Methods Using the MarketScan database, we identified 35,406 breast cancer patients treated from 2000 to 2011 with these local therapies. We quantified the total time burden as the sum of inpatient days (inpatient-days), outpatient days excluding radiation fractions (outpatient-days), and radiation fractions (radiation-days) in the first two years postdiagnosis. Multivariable regression evaluated the effect of local therapy on inpatient-days and outpatient-days adjusted for patient and treatment covariates. Results Adjusted mean number of inpatient-days was 1.0 for Lump+WBI, 2.0 for Mast alone, and 3.1 for Mast+Recon (P < 0.001). Adjusted mean number of outpatient-days was 42.9 for Lump+WBI, 42.2 for Mast alone, and 45.8 for Mast+Recon (P < 0.001). The mean number of radiation-days for Lump+WBI was 32.4. Compared with Mast+Recon (48.9 days), total adjusted time burden was 4.7 days shorter for Mast alone (44.2 days) and 27.4 days longer for Lump+WBI (76.3 days). However, use of a 15 fraction WBI regimen would reduce the time burden differential between Lump+WBI and Mast+Recon to just 10.0 days. Conclusions Although Mast+Recon confers the highest inpatient and outpatient time burden, Lump+WBI carries the highest total time burden. Increased use of hypofractionation will reduce the total time burden for Lump+WBI.
Collapse
|
28
|
Gu L, Dai W, Fu R, Lu H, Shen J, Shi Y, Zhang M, Jiang K, Wu F. Comparing Hypofractionated With Conventional Fractionated Radiotherapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery for Early Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Oncol 2021; 11:753209. [PMID: 34660318 PMCID: PMC8518530 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.753209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the safety and efficacy between hypofractionated and conventional fractionation radiotherapy in patients with early-stage breast cancer after breast-conserving surgery. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before February 2021. At the same time, the hazard ratio (HR), risk ratio (RR), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to evaluate local recurrence (LR), relapse-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), adverse events, and cosmetic outcomes. Results A total of 14 articles were included in this meta-analysis. Four thousand eight hundred and sixty-nine patients were randomly assigned to the control group to receive conventional radiotherapy (CFRT); 6,072 patients were randomly assigned to the experimental group and treated with hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT). The results showed that there was no statistical difference between HFRT and CFRT in LR (HR = 0.99, 95%CI = 0.97-1.02, p = 0.476), RFS (HR = 0.99, 95%CI = 0.97-1.02, p = 0.485), OS (HR = 1.00, 95%CI = 0.97-1.03, p = 0.879), and cosmetic outcomes (RR = 1.03, 95%CI = 0.95-1.12, p = 0.53). In addition, HFRT showed fewer severe adverse reactions such as acute skin toxicity, induration, breast atrophy, and pain. Conclusion Our results suggest that there is no statistical difference between HFRT and CFRT in terms of LR, RFS, OS, and cosmetic outcomes. HFRT reduces the risk of developing toxicity reactions compared to CFRT. HFRT may be a better option for patients with early breast cancer after breast-conserving surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lihu Gu
- Department of General Surgery, HwaMei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China.,Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Wei Dai
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rongrong Fu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongfeng Lu
- Department of Breast Surgery, HwaMei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Jingyi Shen
- Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Yetan Shi
- Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Mengting Zhang
- Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Ke Jiang
- Ningbo Institute of Life and Health Industry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Feng Wu
- Department of General Surgery, HwaMei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lapen K, Sabol C, Tin AL, Lynch K, Kassa A, Mabli X, Ford J, Cha E, Bernstein MB, Braunstein LZ, Cahlon O, Daly BM, Sandler K, McCloskey SA, Vickers AJ, Khan AJ, Gillespie EF. Development and Pilot Implementation of a Remote Monitoring System for Acute Toxicity Using Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 111:979-991. [PMID: 34314814 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.07.1692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to develop and study the implementation of a remote system for toxicity assessment and management of acute side effects of breast radiation using electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs). METHODS AND MATERIALS A response-adapted Patient-Reported Outcomes Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events-based assessment for breast radiation toxicity was administered weekly during and for 8 weeks after radiation from June 2019 to July 2020. The care team received alerts when "severe" symptoms were reported by patients, who were then contacted. Treatment, clinic, and sociodemographic characteristics were abstracted from patient records. A subsample of patients and care team members was qualitatively interviewed at follow-up. RESULTS Overall, 5787 assessments were sent to 678 patients, of whom 489 (72%) completed 2607 assessments (45%). Moderate or greater toxicity was reported by 419 responders (86%; 95% CI, 82%-89%). Clinician alerts for severe toxicity were generated for 264 assessments among 139 unique patients, of which 83% occurred posttreatment. The proportion of surveys that prompted an alert was significantly higher after treatment (219 [13%]) than during treatment (45 [5%]) (P < .001). Survey completion rates in the posttreatment period were higher among patients undergoing partial breast irradiation than postmastectomy radiation (incidence rate ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.60-0.81) (P < .001) despite these patients experiencing less severe toxicity. Interviews (15) found that patients had a positive experience with ePROs, although many thought the primary purpose was for research rather than symptom management. CONCLUSIONS With the majority of toxicity occurring after breast radiation has ended, remote symptom monitoring with ePROs appears to fill a gap in clinical practice, particularly for patients undergoing shorter courses of radiation. It is important to properly onboard patients and explain that the purpose of ePROs is to aid clinical care. Further research is needed to determine whether the costs associated with ePROs can be offset by reducing routine clinic visits and whether this approach is acceptable and appropriate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Lapen
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Christopher Sabol
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Amy L Tin
- Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kathleen Lynch
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Alyse Kassa
- Departments of Health Informatics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Xiaolin Mabli
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - John Ford
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elaine Cha
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Michael B Bernstein
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lior Z Braunstein
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Oren Cahlon
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Bobby M Daly
- Departments of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kiri Sandler
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Susan A McCloskey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Andrew J Vickers
- Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Atif J Khan
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Erin F Gillespie
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Center for Health Policy and Outcomes, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Donati CM, Nardi E, Galietta E, Alfieri ML, Siepe G, Zamagni A, Buwenge M, Macchia G, Deodato F, Cilla S, Strigari L, Cammelli S, Cellini F, Morganti AG. An Intensive Educational Intervention Significantly Improves the Adoption of Single Fractionation Radiotherapy in Uncomplicated Bone Metastases. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-ONCOLOGY 2021; 15:11795549211027148. [PMID: 34366683 PMCID: PMC8312156 DOI: 10.1177/11795549211027148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: An education strategy was employed in our department to increase the rate of patients with uncomplicated painful bone metastases undergoing single fractionation radiotherapy (SFRT). The purpose of this report is to analyze the results of this strategy over a 5 year period. Materials and Methods: In January 2015, two meetings were organized in our department. In the first, data from an audit on the current SFRT rate were shown. In the second, evidence of SFRT efficacy in the relief of pain from uncomplicated bone metastases was presented. In addition, during the weekly discussion of clinical cases, the opportunity to use the SFRT was systematically recalled. Using our institutional database, all patients treated with radiotherapy for uncomplicated painful bone metastases in the period between 2014 (year considered as a reference) and 2019 were retrieved. Data regarding treatment date (year), radiotherapy fractionation, and tumor, patients, and radiation oncologists characteristics were collected. Results: A total of 627 patients were included in the analysis. The rate of patients undergoing SFRT increased from 4.0% in 2014 to 63.5% in 2019 (p < 0.001). At multivariable analysis, the delivery of SFRT was significantly correlated with older patients age (>80 years), lung cancer as the primary tumor, treatment prescribed by a radiation oncologist dedicated to palliative treatments, and treatment date (2014 vs 2015–2019). Conclusions: This retrospective single-center analysis showed that a simple but intensive and prolonged departmental education strategy can increase the rate of patients treated with SFRT by nearly 16 times.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Costanza M Donati
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Nardi
- Medical Statistics, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Erika Galietta
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria L Alfieri
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Giambattista Siepe
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alice Zamagni
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Milly Buwenge
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Gabriella Macchia
- Istituto di Radiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.,Radiation Oncology Unit, Gemelli Molise Hospital-Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Francesco Deodato
- Istituto di Radiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.,Radiation Oncology Unit, Gemelli Molise Hospital-Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Savino Cilla
- Medical Physics Unit, Gemelli Molise Hospital-Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Lidia Strigari
- Medical Physics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Cammelli
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Cellini
- Istituto di Radiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, UOC di Radioterapia, Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche, Radioterapiche ed Ematologiche, Roma, Italy
| | - Alessio G Morganti
- Radiation Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic, and Specialty Medicine-DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna University; Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Chen RC, Haynes K, Du S, Barron J, Katz AJ. Association of Cancer Screening Deficit in the United States With the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA Oncol 2021; 7:878-884. [PMID: 33914015 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2021.0884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance The COVID-19 pandemic led to sharp declines in cancer screening. However, the total deficit in screening in the US associated with the pandemic and the differential impact on individuals in different geographic regions and by socioeconomic status (SES) index have yet to be fully characterized. Objectives To quantify the screening rates for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers associated with the COVID-19 pandemic in different geographic regions and for individuals in different SES index quartiles and estimate the overall cancer screening deficit in 2020 across the US population. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study uses the HealthCore Integrated Research Database, which comprises single-payer administrative claims data and enrollment information covering approximately 60 million people in Medicare Advantage and commercial health plans from across geographically diverse regions of the US. Participants were individuals in the database in January through July of 2018, 2019, and 2020 without diagnosis of the cancer of interest prior to the analytic index month. Exposures Analytic index month and year. Main Outcomes and Measures Receipt of breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer screening. Results Screening for all 3 cancers declined sharply in March through May of 2020 compared with 2019, with the sharpest decline in April (breast, -90.8%; colorectal, -79.3%; prostate, -63.4%) and near complete recovery of monthly screening rates by July for breast and prostate cancers. The absolute deficit across the US population in screening associated with the COVID-19 pandemic was estimated to be 3.9 million (breast), 3.8 million (colorectal), and 1.6 million (prostate). Geographic differences were observed: the Northeast experienced the sharpest declines in screening, while the West had a slower recovery compared with the Midwest and South. For example, percentage change in breast cancer screening rate (2020 vs 2019) for the month of April ranged from -87.3% (95% CI, -87.9% to -86.7%) in the West to -94.5% (95% CI, -94.9% to -94.1%) in the Northeast (decline). For the month of July, it ranged from -0.3% (95% CI, -2.1% to 1.5%) in the Midwest to -10.6% (-12.6% to -8.4%) in the West (recovery). By SES, the largest screening decline was observed in individuals in the highest SES index quartile, leading to a narrowing in the disparity in cancer screening by SES in 2020. For example, prostate cancer screening rates per 100 000 enrollees for individuals in the lowest and highest SES index quartiles, respectively, were 3525 (95% CI, 3444 to 3607) and 4329 (95% CI, 4271 to 4386) in April 2019 compared with 1535 (95% CI, 1480 to 1589) and 1338 (95% CI, 1306 to 1370) in April 2020. Multivariable analysis showed that telehealth use was associated with higher cancer screening. Conclusions and Relevance Public health efforts are needed to address the large cancer screening deficit associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased use of screening modalities that do not require a procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald C Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Kevin Haynes
- Scientific Affairs, HealthCore, Inc, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Simo Du
- Scientific Affairs, HealthCore, Inc, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - John Barron
- Scientific Affairs, HealthCore, Inc, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Aaron J Katz
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Xu X, Soulos PR, Herrin J, Wang S, Pollack CE, Evans SB, Yu JB, Gross CP. Physician trajectories of abandoning long-course breast radiotherapy and their cost impact. Health Serv Res 2021; 56:497-506. [PMID: 33070305 PMCID: PMC8143683 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.13572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine variation in trajectories of abandoning conventionally fractionated whole-breast irradiation (CF-WBI) for adjuvant breast radiotherapy among physician peer groups and the associated cost implications. DATA SOURCES Medicare claims data were obtained from the Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse for fee-for-service beneficiaries with breast cancer in 2011-2014. STUDY DESIGN We used social network methods to identify peer groups of physicians that shared patients. For each physician peer group in each time period (T1 = 2011-2012 and T2 = 2013-2014), we calculated a risk-adjusted rate of CF-WBI use among eligible women, after adjusting for patient clinical characteristics. We applied a latent class growth analysis to these risk-adjusted rates to identify distinct trajectories of CF-WBI use among physician peer groups. We further estimated potential savings to the Medicare program by accelerating abandonment of CF-WBI in T2 using a simulation model. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Use of conventionally fractionated whole-breast irradiation was determined from Medicare claims among women ≥ 66 years of age who underwent adjuvant radiotherapy after breast conserving surgery. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Among 215 physician peer groups caring for 16 988 patients, there were four distinct trajectories of abandoning CF-WBI: (a) persistent high use (mean risk-adjusted utilization rate: T1 = 94.3%, T2 = 90.6%); (b) decreased high use (T1 = 81.3%, T2 = 65.3%); (c) decreased medium use (T1 = 60.1%, T2 = 44.0%); and (d) decreased low use (T1 = 31.6%, T2 = 23.6%). Peer groups with a smaller proportion of patients treated at free-standing radiation facilities and a larger proportion of physicians that were surgeons tended to follow trajectories with lower use of CF-WBI. If all physician peer groups had practice patterns in T2 similar to those in the "decreased low use" trajectory, the Medicare program could save $83.3 million (95% confidence interval: $58.5 million-$112.2 million). CONCLUSIONS Physician peer groups had distinct trajectories of abandoning CF-WBI. Physician composition and setting of radiotherapy were associated with the different trajectories. Distinct practice patterns across the trajectories had important cost implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive SciencesYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Pamela R. Soulos
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Section of General Internal MedicineDepartment of Internal MedicineYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Jeph Herrin
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Section of CardiologyDepartment of Internal MedicineYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Shi‐Yi Wang
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Department of Chronic Disease EpidemiologyYale School of Public HealthNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Craig Evan Pollack
- Department of Health Policy and ManagementJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Suzanne B. Evans
- Department of Therapeutic RadiologyYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - James B. Yu
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Department of Therapeutic RadiologyYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Cary P. Gross
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Section of General Internal MedicineDepartment of Internal MedicineYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marta GN, Ramiah D, Kaidar-Person O, Kirby A, Coles C, Jagsi R, Hijal T, Sancho G, Zissiadis Y, Pignol JP, Ho AY, Cheng SHC, Offersen BV, Meattini I, Poortmans P. The Financial Impact on Reimbursement of Moderately Hypofractionated Postoperative Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer: An International Consortium Report. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2021; 33:322-330. [PMID: 33358283 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Moderately hypofractionated breast irradiation has been evaluated in several prospective studies, resulting in wide acceptance of shorter treatment protocols for postoperative breast irradiation. Reimbursement for radiation therapy varies between private and public systems and between countries, impacting variably financial considerations in the use of hypofractionation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the financial impact of moderately hypofractionated breast irradiation by reimbursement system in different countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was designed by an international group of radiation oncologists. A web-questionnaire was distributed to representatives from each country. The participants were asked to involve the financial consultant at their institution. RESULTS Data from 13 countries from all populated continents were collected (Europe: Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, UK; North America: Canada, USA; South America: Brazil; Africa: South Africa; Oceania: Australia; Asia: Israel, Taiwan). Clinicians and/or departments in most of the countries surveyed (77%) receive remuneration based on the number of fractions delivered to the patient. The financial loss per patient estimated resulting from applying moderately hypofractionated breast irradiation instead of conventional fractionation ranged from 5-10% to 30-40%, depending on the healthcare provider. CONCLUSION Although a generalised adoption of moderately hypofractionated breast irradiation would allow for a considerable reduction in social and economic burden, the financial loss for the healthcare providers induced by fee-for-service remuneration may be a factor in the slow uptake of these regimens. Therefore, fee-for-service reimbursement may not be preferable for radiation oncology. We propose that an alternative system of remuneration, such as bundled payments based on stage and diagnosis, may provide more value for all stakeholders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G N Marta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - D Ramiah
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Donald Gordon Medical Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - O Kaidar-Person
- Breast Cancer Radiation Unit, Radiation Oncology Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - A Kirby
- Department of Radiotherapy, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - C Coles
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - R Jagsi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - T Hijal
- Division of Radiation Oncology, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - G Sancho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Y Zissiadis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Genesis Cancer Care, Wembley, WA, Australia
| | - J-P Pignol
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - A Y Ho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S H-C Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - B V Offersen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - I Meattini
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Oncology Department, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy; Department of Biomedical, Experimental, and Clinical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - P Poortmans
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Iridium Kankernetwerk, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium; University of Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Cheng D, Baynosa J, Cross C, Kirgan D, Williams SJ, St Hill C. Comparing the effect of distance to treatment facility on reconstruction and breast conservation therapy for early-stage invasive ductal carcinoma between the nation and the mountain region. Am J Surg 2021; 224:1049-1056. [PMID: 34001333 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2021.04.024] [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: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective is to evaluate the effect of distance to facility on the use of breast conservation therapy and reconstruction for early stage breast cancer. METHODS Utilizing the National Cancer Database, we identified females, age <65, with Stage I invasive ductal carcinoma from 2004 to 2015. Using logistic regression, we compared radiation, mastectomy, and reconstruction treatment patterns. A subgroup analysis was performed within the mountain region (MR). RESULTS Nationwide, there are decreasing odds of radiation, increasing odds of mastectomy, and increasing odds of reconstruction. Patients living farther were less likely to receive radiation, more likely to undergo mastectomy, with no effect on reconstruction. Within the MR, patients living farther from their facility were less likely to receive radiation, more likely to undergo mastectomy, however, they were less likely to undergo reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS Nationwide and within the MR, patients living farther from their facility are less likely to receive radiation and more likely to undergo mastectomy. There is a disparity between the MR and the nation in use of reconstruction for this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cheng
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Medicine, USA.
| | | | - Chad Cross
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Medicine, USA; University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Public Health, USA.
| | - Daniel Kirgan
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Medicine, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hsieh K, Housri N, Haffty B, Smith B, Burt LM. Radiation Oncologists' Views on Breast Radiation Therapy Guidelines: Utilizing an Online Q&A Platform to Assess Current Views on Whole-Breast Irradiation Therapy. Clin Breast Cancer 2021; 21:408-416. [PMID: 33814285 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2021.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Poor adherence to the 2011 American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) evidence-based guideline on whole-breast irradiation (WBI) has been reported. We utilized theMednet to assess the views of the updated 2018 guideline among radiation oncologists (ROs). METHODS We identified 11 questions asked by community ROs on theMednet, a web-based platform, between October 27, 2014 and May 2, 2017 that were updated in the 2018 guideline. New answers provided by senior authors of the 2018 guideline, cited guidelines, and polls to survey ROs were disseminated in 3 theMednet's newsletters between March 16, 2018 and May 1, 2018. Any question with less than 60% consensus was resubmitted on October 9, 2019 and assessed on February 13, 2020. RESULTS A total of 792 ROs responded to the initial surveys. In each survey, the answer choice(s) that received the majority of the votes aligned with the 2018 guideline. The strongest consensus was for the use of hypofractionated (HF)-WBI regardless of histology (97%), followed by HF-WBI boost dose (92%), molecular subtype (90%), grade (88%), and concurrent use of trastuzumab (87%). The least consensus was for age at which HF-WBI should be offered with 53% of respondents, specifically 73% of academic ROs versus 47% of community ROs (P = .001), agreeing with the guideline. The re-submitted survey 19 months later showed 77% of 287 new respondents now agreed with the guideline regarding age. CONCLUSION The majority of ROs concur with the 2018 WBI guideline in theMednet surveys, with better agreement among academic ROs than community ROs for certain components of the guideline. Further research into the different practice patterns may optimize patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Hsieh
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, NY
| | - Nadine Housri
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine and Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center, New Haven, CT.
| | - Bruce Haffty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and the Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ.
| | - Benjamin Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
| | - Lindsay M Burt
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Iragorri N, de Oliveira C, Fitzgerald N, Essue B. The Out-of-Pocket Cost Burden of Cancer Care-A Systematic Literature Review. Curr Oncol 2021; 28:1216-1248. [PMID: 33804288 PMCID: PMC8025828 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Out-of-pocket costs pose a substantial economic burden to cancer patients and their families. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the literature on out-of-pocket costs of cancer care. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies that estimated the out-of-pocket cost burden faced by cancer patients and their caregivers. The average monthly out-of-pocket costs per patient were reported/estimated and converted to 2018 USD. Costs were reported as medical and non-medical costs and were reported across countries or country income levels by cancer site, where possible, and category. The out-of-pocket burden was estimated as the average proportion of income spent as non-reimbursable costs. RESULTS Among all cancers, adult patients and caregivers in the U.S. spent between USD 180 and USD 2600 per month, compared to USD 15-400 in Canada, USD 4-609 in Western Europe, and USD 58-438 in Australia. Patients with breast or colorectal cancer spent around USD 200 per month, while pediatric cancer patients spent USD 800. Patients spent USD 288 per month on cancer medications in the U.S. and USD 40 in other high-income countries (HICs). The average costs for medical consultations and in-hospital care were estimated between USD 40-71 in HICs. Cancer patients and caregivers spent 42% and 16% of their annual income on out-of-pocket expenses in low- and middle-income countries and HICs, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We found evidence that cancer is associated with high out-of-pocket costs. Healthcare systems have an opportunity to improve the coverage of medical and non-medical costs for cancer patients to help alleviate this burden and ensure equitable access to care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Iragorri
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
| | - Claire de Oliveira
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
- Centre for Health Economics and Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
| | | | - Beverley Essue
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ong WL, Khor R, Chao M, Milne RL, Millar J, Foroudi F. Choosing Wisely in radiation therapy for breast cancer: Time lag in adoption of hypofractionated radiation therapy in Victoria. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2021; 65:224-232. [PMID: 33591610 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To evaluate the adoption of hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) for breast cancer (BC) in Victoria, Australia. METHODS This is a population-based cohort of women with BC who had breast RT as captured in the Victorian Radiotherapy Minimum Data Set between 2012 and 2017. We defined HFRT as < 25 fractions of RT. The pattern of HFRT use over time was evaluated with the Cochrane-Armitage test for trend. Factors associated with HFRT were identified using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS 12,717 women were included in the study. Overall, 6,653 (52%) patients had HFRT. HFRT use increased from 35% in 2012 to 66% in 2017 (P-trend < 0.001). Older women were more likely to have HFRT (74% for women aged ≥ 70 years vs. 27% for women aged < 50 years; P < 0.001). Women who had nodal irradiation were less likely to have HFRT compared with those who did not (13% vs. 57%; P < 0.001). HFRT use was more common in public than private institutions (57% vs. 46%, P < 0.001), and in metropolitan than regional centres (54% vs. 46%, P < 0.001). In multivariable analyses, the progressive increase in HFRT use over time was independent of other covariates - women treated in 2017 were 7.3 times (95% CI = 6.3-8.6, P < 0.001) more likely to be treated with HFRT than in 2012. Age at RT, nodal irradiation, area of residence and institutional type and locations were all independently associated with HFRT use. CONCLUSION This large Australian contemporary population-based study demonstrates increasing use of HFRT for BC. However, large sociodemographic and institutional provider-related variations in practice still exist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wee Loon Ong
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Khor
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Chao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Genesis Cancer Care, Ringwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Roger L Milne
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Science, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeremy Millar
- Alfred Health Radiation Oncology Services, Prahran, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Farshad Foroudi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Alami Merrouni I, Elachouri M. Anticancer medicinal plants used by Moroccan people: Ethnobotanical, preclinical, phytochemical and clinical evidence. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 266:113435. [PMID: 33022340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cancer is a major health problem worldwide. Drugs' side effects and high cost of treatment remain the main limitations of conventional therapy. Nowadays, developing new therapeutic strategies is necessary. Therefore, medicinal plants can be used to promote novel, safe, and potent anticancer drugs through their natural compounds. AIM OF THE STUDY This review aims to provide scientific evidence related to the anticancer activities of medicinal plants used by Moroccan people as well as approving their efficiency as an alternative cancer therapy. METHODS An ethnopharmacological review approach was conducted by analyzing Moroccan published ethnobotanical surveys from 1991 to 2019 and consulting peer-reviewed articles worldwide to investigate the pharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical effects related to the anticancer activities. Plants with anticancer proprieties were classified into four groups: (a) plants only cited as anticancer, (b) plants pharmacologically investigated, (c) plants with bioactive compounds tested as anticancer, and (d) plants clinically investigated. RESULTS A total of 103 plant species belonging to 47 botanical families used by Moroccans to treat cancer have been recorded. Aristolochia fontanesii Boiss. & Reut, Marrubium vulgare L., and Allium sativum L. are the most referred species in Morocco. Medicinal plants used for cancer treatment were classified into four groups: 48 species were used traditionally as anticancer (group a), 41 species pharmacologically investigated for their anticancer activities (group b), 32 plants with bioactive compounds tested against cancer (group c), and eight plants were clinically investigated for their anticancer effects (group d). Out of 82 plants' extracts pharmacologically tested (from plants of group b), only 24 ones show a significant cytotoxic effect. A total of seventy-seven compounds are isolated from plants of group (c). However, only six ones were clinically evaluated, and most of them exhibit a beneficial effect on cancerous patients with few side effects. CONCLUSION Medicinal plants can be a promising candidate for alternative cancer therapy. Nevertheless, it is critical to increasing the clinical trials to confirm their beneficial effect on patients with cancer. Overall, this review can serve as a database for further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilyass Alami Merrouni
- Laboratory of Physiology, Genetics, and Ethnopharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed First University, Oujda, Morocco.
| | - Mostafa Elachouri
- Laboratory of Physiology, Genetics, and Ethnopharmacology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed First University, Oujda, Morocco.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Trends in Use of Hypofractionated Whole Breast Radiation in Breast Cancer: An Analysis of the National Cancer Database. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 109:449-457. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
40
|
Moderate hypofractionation remains the standard of care for whole-breast radiotherapy in breast cancer: Considerations regarding FAST and FAST-Forward. Strahlenther Onkol 2021; 197:269-280. [PMID: 33507331 PMCID: PMC7841378 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-020-01744-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Moderate hypofractionation is the standard of care for adjuvant whole-breast radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer. Recently, 10-year results from the FAST and 5‑year results from the FAST-Forward trial evaluating adjuvant whole-breast radiotherapy in 5 fractions over 5 weeks or 1 week have been published. This article summarizes recent data for moderate hypofractionation and results from the FAST and FAST-Forward trial on ultra-hypofractionation. While the FAST trial was not powered for comparison of local recurrence rates, FAST-Forward demonstrated non-inferiority for two ultra-hypofractionated regimens in terms of local control. In both trials, the higher-dose experimental arms resulted in elevated rates of late toxicity. For the lower dose experimental arms of 28.5 Gy over 5 weeks and 26 Gy over 1 week, moderate or marked late effects were similar in the majority of documented items compared to the respective standard arms, but significantly worse in some subdomains. The difference between the standard arm and the 26 Gy of the FAST-Forward trial concerning moderate or marked late effects increased with longer follow-up in disadvantage of the experimental arm for most items. For now, moderate hypofractionation with 40–42.5 Gy over 15–16 fractions remains the standard of care for the majority of patients with breast cancer who undergo whole-breast radiotherapy without regional nodal irradiation after breast-conserving surgery.
Collapse
|
41
|
Sayan M, Yehia ZA, Ohri N, Haffty BG. Hypofractionated Postmastectomy Radiation Therapy. Adv Radiat Oncol 2021; 6:100618. [PMID: 33490735 PMCID: PMC7809517 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To provide an overview of the major randomized trials that support the use of hypofractionated post-mastectomy radiation therapy for locally advanced breast cancer patients. Methods and Materials PubMed was systematically reviewed for publications reporting use of of hypofractionated radiation therapy in patients requiring post-mastectomy radiation. Results Standard fractionation, which is typically delivered over 5 to 7 weeks, is considered the standard of care in setting of post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). Modern data has helped to establish hypofractionated whole breast irradiation, which consists of a 3- to 4-week regimen, as a new standard of care for early-stage breast cancer. Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation has also laid the groundwork for the exploration of a hypofractionated approach in the setting of hypofractionated post-mastectomy radiation therapy. Conclusions While standard fractionation remains the most commonly utilized regimen for PMRT, recently published trials support the safety and efficacy of a hypofractionated approach. Ongoing trials are further investigating the use of hypofractionated PMRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mutlay Sayan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Zeinab Abou Yehia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Nisha Ohri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Bruce G Haffty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Parikh RB, Fishman E, Chi W, Zimmerman RP, Gupta A, Barron JJ, Sylwestrzak G, Bekelman JE. Association of Utilization Management Policy With Uptake of Hypofractionated Radiotherapy Among Patients With Early-Stage Breast Cancer. JAMA Oncol 2021; 6:839-846. [PMID: 32297905 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2020.0449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Importance Breast cancer accounts for the largest portion of cancer-related spending in the United States. Although hypofractionated radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery is a cost-effective and convenient treatment strategy for patients with early-stage breast cancer, less than 40% of eligible women received hypofractionated radiotherapy in 2013. Objective To assess the association of a large commercial payer's utilization management policy with the use of hypofractionated radiotherapy among women with early-stage breast cancer and its associated cost. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective, adjusted difference-in-differences economic analysis was conducted using administrative claims data from January 1, 2012, to June 1, 2018, of women 18 years or older with early-stage breast cancer who were eligible for hypofractionated radiotherapy according to 2011 guidelines from the American Society for Radiation Oncology and were continuously enrolled in 14 geographically diverse commercial health plans covering 6.9% of US adult women. Women who received mastectomy, brachytherapy, or less than 11 or more than 40 external beam fractions of radiotherapy were excluded. A utilization management policy was used to encourage the use of hypofractionated radiotherapy among women in fully insured and Medicare Advantage (fully insured) plans. Under the new policy, claims for extended-course radiotherapy were not reimbursed for fully insured women who were eligible for hypofractionated radiotherapy. This policy did not apply to women in self-insured or Medicare supplemental insurance (self-insured) plans, allowing these groups to serve as a comparison group. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was use of hypofractionated radiotherapy, and the secondary outcome was the cost of this type of radiotherapy. Results Of 10 540 eligible women, 3619 (34.3%) were in fully insured plans and thus subject to the policy. There were no meaningful differences between the fully insured and self-insured groups in mean (SD) age at the start of radiotherapy (63.8 [8.6] vs 65.0 [8.9] years), mean (SD) Charlson Comorbidity Index score (3.0 [1.5] vs 3.2 [1.6]), or practice setting (outpatient hospital setting, 2982 of 3619 [82.4%] vs 5600 of 6921 [80.9%]). The policy was associated with an increase in use of hypofractionated radiotherapy among fully insured patients subject to the policy (adjusted percentage point difference-in-difference, 4.2%; 95% CI, 0.0%-8.4%; P = .05) and a nonsignificant decrease in radiotherapy-associated expenditures (-$2275 relative to self-insured patients; P = .09). Spillover analyses revealed a significantly higher uptake of hypofractionated radiotherapy among self-insured patients who were indirectly exposed to the policy (adjusted percentage point difference-in-difference, 8.5%; 95% CI, 3.6%-13.5%; P < .001) compared with those who were not exposed. Conclusions and Relevance This study suggests that a payer's utilization management policy was associated with direct and spillover increases in the use of hypofractionated radiotherapy, even after accounting for a long-term secular trend in the uptake of hypofractionated radiotherapy in the control groups. Utilization management may promote evidence-based cancer care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi B Parikh
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.,Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | | | - Atul Gupta
- Department of Health Care Management, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | | | | | - Justin E Bekelman
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.,Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dziemianowicz M, Burmeister J, Dominello M. Examining the Financial Impact of Altered Fractionation in Breast Cancer: An Analysis Using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing. Pract Radiat Oncol 2021; 11:245-251. [PMID: 33476840 DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Value-based care is increasingly informing treatment decisions in radiation oncology. Although reimbursement differences have been examined for accelerated whole breast irradiation (AWBI) and conventional whole breast irradiation (CWBI), the cost of care delivery is poorly understood. This article describes our experience evaluating costs for altered fractionation in early-stage breast cancer using a time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) model. METHODS AND MATERIALS Process maps were developed for 2 treatment regimens, AWBI (42.5 Gy in 16 fractions + 10 Gy in 4 fractions boost) and CWBI (50 Gy in 25 fractions + 10 Gy in 5 fractions boost). Cost was determined based on aggregate cost of personnel, materials, equipment, space, and utilities per unit time and based on the relative proportion of capacity used. The total reimbursement for each regimen was calculated as the aggregate of all billable events during a course of radiation therapy, based on the 2019 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services physician fee schedule database. RESULTS The total cost of delivering courses of AWBI and CWBI was $6965 and $9267, respectively, a difference of $2302 (25%). Eighty-six percent of this difference was related to a lower cost of delivering daily treatments. The total reimbursement for AWBI or CWBI was $9665 or $12,908, respectively, a difference of $3243 (25%). Overall, 55% to 60% of total costs were related to personnel, with the remainder related to materials, utilities, space, and equipment. CONCLUSIONS This analysis shows how TDABC can be used to evaluate resource requirements for different radiation therapy fractionation schedules. We found a substantially lower cost for AWBI compared with CWBI, primarily resulting from fewer daily treatments. As the emphasis in health care shifts toward value-based care, TDABC can help identify opportunities to reduce costs and increase clinical efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Dziemianowicz
- Karmanos Cancer Center, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan.
| | - Jay Burmeister
- Karmanos Cancer Center, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Michael Dominello
- Karmanos Cancer Center, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Montagna G, Morrow M. Breast-conserving Surgery Without Radiation Therapy for Invasive Cancer. Clin Breast Cancer 2021; 21:112-119. [PMID: 34030858 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) halves the risk of local recurrence, and it is considered the standard of care for the vast majority of patients with early invasive breast cancer. However, the majority of patients treated with BCS will not recur locally, even in the absence of RT. Over the past several decades, the improved and widespread use of systemic therapy has significantly decreased the rate of local recurrence. This has stimulated interest in identifying favorable patient subsets not requiring RT. Randomized controlled trials have shown in women aged ≥ 70 years with stage I estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) tumors, RT can be safely omitted. To better identify patients with favorable prognosis, ongoing trials have incorporated biological markers and genomic assays. Despite great research efforts to de-escalate locoregional treatment, real-world data indicate that omission of RT in low-risk patients is inconsistent. Better decision-making is warranted to reduce overtreatment and financial toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Montagna
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Monica Morrow
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Krug D, Vonthein R, Schreiber A, Boicev AD, Zimmer J, Laubach R, Weidner N, Dinges S, Hipp M, Schneider R, Weinstrauch E, Martin T, Hörner-Rieber J, Olbrich D, Illen A, Heßler N, König IR, Dellas K, Dunst J. Impact of guideline changes on adoption of hypofractionation and breast cancer patient characteristics in the randomized controlled HYPOSIB trial. Strahlenther Onkol 2020; 197:802-811. [PMID: 33320286 PMCID: PMC8397631 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-020-01730-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Hypofractionated radiotherapy is the standard of care for adjuvant whole breast radiotherapy (RT). However, adoption has been slow. The indication for regional nodal irradiation has been expanded to include patients with 0–3 involved lymph nodes. We investigated the impact of the publication of the updated German S3 guidelines in 2017 on adoption of hypofractionation and enrollment of patients with lymph node involvement within a randomized controlled phase III trial. Methods In the experimental arm of the HYPOSIB trial (NCT02474641), hypofractionated RT with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) was used. In the standard arm, RT could be given as hypofractionated RT with sequential boost (HFseq), normofractionated RT with sequential boost (NFseq), or normofractionated RT with SIB (NFSIB). The cutoff date for the updated German S3 guidelines was December 17, 2017. Temporal trends were analyzed by generalized linear regression models. Multiple logistic regression models were used to investigate the influence of time (prior to/after guideline) and setting (university hospital/other institutions) on the fractionation patterns. Results Enrollment of patients with involved lymph nodes was low throughout the trial. Adoption of HFseq increased over time and when using the guideline publication date as cutoff. Results of the multiple logistic regressions showed an interaction between time and setting. Furthermore, the use of HFseq was significantly more common in university hospitals. Conclusion The use of HFseq in the standard arm increased over the course of the HYPOSIB trial and after publication of the S3 guideline update. This was primarily driven by patients treated in university hospitals. Enrolment of patients with lymph node involvement was low throughout the trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Krug
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Reinhard Vonthein
- Institut für Medizinische Biometrie und Statistik, Universität zu Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Andreas Schreiber
- Praxis für Strahlentherapie Dr. med. Andreas Schreiber, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander D Boicev
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Heinrich-Braun-Klinikum Zwickau, Zwickau, Germany
| | - Jörg Zimmer
- Praxis für Strahlentherapie Dr. med. Andreas Schreiber, Dresden, Germany
| | - Reinhold Laubach
- Klinik für Radio-Onkologie, St. Marien-Krankenhaus Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Nicola Weidner
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Dinges
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie & Radioonkologie, Klinikum Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Hipp
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Klinikum Amberg, Amberg, Germany
| | - Ralf Schneider
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Helios-Kliniken Schwerin, Schwerin, Germany
| | - Evelyn Weinstrauch
- Praxis für Radioonkologie, Johanniter-Zentren für Medizinische Versorgung Stendal, Stendal, Germany
| | - Thomas Martin
- Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum Fachbereich RadioOnkologie, Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Bremen, Germany
| | - Juliane Hörner-Rieber
- RadioOnkologie und Strahlentherapie, UniversitätsKlinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Denise Olbrich
- ZKS Lübeck (Zentrum für klinische Studien Lübeck), Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Alicia Illen
- ZKS Lübeck (Zentrum für klinische Studien Lübeck), Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Nicole Heßler
- Institut für Medizinische Biometrie und Statistik, Universität zu Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Inke R König
- Institut für Medizinische Biometrie und Statistik, Universität zu Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Kathrin Dellas
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jürgen Dunst
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Butala AA, Williams GR, Fontanilla HP, Dharmarajan KV, Jones JA. Making the Most of a Crisis: A Proposal for Network-Based Palliative Radiation Therapy to Reduce Travel Toxicity. Adv Radiat Oncol 2020; 5:1104-1105. [PMID: 32838072 PMCID: PMC7428704 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A multipronged model is proposed to improve the delivery of palliative radiotherapy by increasing access to care and reducing travel burden for patients.
Collapse
|
47
|
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Biological Signature DCISionRT Use for DCIS Treatment. Clin Breast Cancer 2020; 21:e271-e278. [PMID: 33218957 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently it remains difficult to identify patients most likely to benefit from radiotherapy (RT) for ductal carcinoma-in-situ (DCIS), thus leading to wide variation in practice patterns. The genomic risk assessment tool DCISionRT (PreludeDX) has been validated to prognosticate recurrence risk and predict RT benefit. We aimed to study the cost-effectiveness analysis comparing DCIS treatments based on DCISionRT testing to traditional clinicopathologic risk factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS A Markov state transition model was constructed to perform a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing breast-conserving surgery with or without RT using DCISionRT testing vs. traditional clinicopathologic risk factors. Clinical parameters were obtained from clinical trial data and cross-validation studies. Cost data were based on 2019 Medicare reimbursement. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated as incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained comparing DCIS treatments using DCISionRT testing to traditional clinicopathologic risk factors and evaluated with a willingness-to-pay threshold of US$100,000 per QALY gained. To account for uncertainty, 1-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS Base case analysis showed that DCIS management using DCISionRT testing was a cost-effective strategy, resulting in an ICER of $74,331 per QALY gained compared to clinicopathology-based treatment. Model results were sensitive to a variation of the proportion of genomic-high, low-risk patients receiving RT in DCISionRT testing strategy, and changes in DCISionRT testing cost. CONCLUSION DCISionRT testing could potentially be a cost-effective strategy compared to traditional decision making for DCIS treatments, optimizing RT benefit based on an accurate recurrence risk assessment.
Collapse
|
48
|
Schad MD, Patel AK, Ling DC, Smith RP, Beriwal S. Hypofractionated Prostate Radiation Therapy: Adoption and Dosimetric Adherence Through Clinical Pathways in an Integrated Oncology Network. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 17:e537-e547. [PMID: 33095692 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Updates to consensus guidelines in October 2018 recommending moderately hypofractionated external beam radiotherapy (mHF-EBRT) in prostate cancer lagged several years after publication of evidence supporting its efficacy. In January 2018, we amended our prostate cancer clinical pathway (CP) to facilitate adoption of mHF-EBRT. Herein, we analyze patterns of care and changes in mHF-EBRT use after the CP modification. METHODS Our prostate CP was amended in January 2018 to make mHF-EBRT the recommended treatment for patients with low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer pursuing curative EBRT monotherapy. Normal-tissue dose constraints accompanied the CP modification to guide planning. Use of mHF-EBRT from 2015 to 2017 was compared with use in 2018 after the CP modification, using the Cochran-Armitage test for trend. Predictors of mHF-EBRT use and adherence to dose constraints were analyzed with binary logistic regression. RESULTS In 560 patients treated with EBRT monotherapy, mHF-EBRT use increased from 3.7% in 2015-2017 to 85.6% in 2018 (P < .001), whereas conventionally fractionated EBRT (CF-EBRT) use decreased from 96.3% to 14.4% (P < .001). Consultation year of 2018 (odds ratio [OR], 214.6; 95% CI, 94.5 to 484.6; P < .001), treatment at an academic facility (OR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.8 to 11.3; P = 0.001), and having a smaller prostate (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.97 to 1.00; P = .028) predicted for mHF-EBRT use. At least five of six recommended bladder and rectal dose constraints were met in 89.4% of patients. CONCLUSION Modification of our prostate cancer CP, in concert with institutional policies to monitor and audit CP compliance, facilitated rapid adoption of mHF-EBRT in our large, integrated cancer center with good adherence to dosimetric constraints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ankur K Patel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Diane C Ling
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ryan P Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Chapman BV, Lei X, Patil P, Tripathi S, Nicklaus KM, Grossberg AJ, Shaitelman SF, Thompson AM, Hunt KK, Buchholz TA, Merchant F, Markey MK, Smith BD, Reddy JP. Quantitative 3-Dimensional Photographic Assessment of Breast Cosmesis After Whole Breast Irradiation for Early Stage Breast Cancer: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. Adv Radiat Oncol 2020; 5:824-833. [PMID: 33083644 PMCID: PMC7557136 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2020.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Our purpose was to use 3-dimensional (3D) surface photography to quantitatively measure breast cosmesis within the framework of a randomized clinical trial of conventionally fractionated (CF) and hypofractionated (HF) whole breast irradiation (WBI); to identify how 3D measurements are associated with patient- and physician-reported cosmesis; and to determine whether objective measures of breast symmetry varied by WBI treatment arm or transforming growth factor β 1 (TGFβ1) status. Methods and Materials From 2011 to 2014, 287 women age ≥40 with ductal carcinoma in situ or early-stage invasive breast cancer were enrolled in a multicenter trial and randomized to HF-WBI or CF-WBI with a boost. Three-dimensional surface photography was performed at 3 years posttreatment. Patient-reported cosmetic outcomes were recorded with the Breast Cancer Treatment Outcome Scale. Physician-reported cosmetic outcomes were assessed by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale. Volume ratios and 6 quantitative measures of breast symmetry, termed F1-6C, were calculated using the breast contour and fiducial points assessed on 3D surface images. Associations between all metrics, patient- and physician-reported cosmesis, treatment arm, and TGFβ1 genotype were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and multivariable logistic regression models. Results Among 77 (39 CF-WBI and 38 HF-WBI) evaluable patients, both patient- and physician-reported cosmetic outcomes were significantly associated with the F1C vertical symmetry measure (both P < .05). Higher dichotomized F1C and volumetric symmetry measures were associated with improved patient- and physician-reported cosmesis on multivariable logistic regression (both P ≤ .05). There were no statistically significant differences in vertical symmetry or volume measures between treatment arms. Increased F6C horizontal symmetry was observed in the CF-WBI arm (P = .05). Patients with the TGFβ1 C-509T variant allele had lower F2C vertical symmetry measures (P = .02). Conclusions Quantitative 3D image-derived measures revealed comparable cosmetic outcomes with HF-WBI compared with CF-WBI. Our findings suggest that 3D surface imaging may be a more sensitive method for measuring subtle cosmetic changes than global patient- or physician-reported assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana V. Chapman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Xiudong Lei
- Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Prithvi Patil
- Department of Engineering Technology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Shikha Tripathi
- Department of Engineering Technology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Krista M. Nicklaus
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Aaron J. Grossberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Simona F. Shaitelman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Alastair M. Thompson
- Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Kelly K. Hunt
- Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Thomas A. Buchholz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Scripps MD Anderson Cancer Center, La Jolla, California
| | - Fatima Merchant
- Department of Engineering Technology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Computer Science, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Mia K. Markey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Imaging Physics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Benjamin D. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jay P. Reddy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Corresponding author: Jay P. Reddy, MD, PhD
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ratosa I, Chirilă ME, Steinacher M, Kozma E, Vojtíšek R, Franco P, Poortmans P. Hypofractionated radiation therapy for breast cancer: Preferences amongst radiation oncologists in Europe - Results from an international survey. Radiother Oncol 2020; 155:17-26. [PMID: 33065187 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We aimed to assess the prescription preference about hypofractionated radiation therapy (HFRT) for breast cancer (BC) patients amongst radiation oncologists (ROs) practicing in Europe and to identify restraints on HFRT utilisation. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey was circulated amongst ROs in Europe through personal, RO and BC societies' networks, from October 2019 to March 2020. The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-squared testing, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS We received 412 responses from 44 countries. HFRT was chosen as the preferred schedule for whole breast irradiation (WBI) by 54.7% and for WBI with regional nodes irradiation (RNI) by 28.7% of the responding ROs. In the case of postmastectomy RT with or without reconstruction, HFRT was preferred by 21.1% and 29.6%, respectively. Overall, 69.2% of the responding ROs selected at least one factor influencing the decision to utilise HFRT, the most frequent of which included age (51.4%), RNI (46.9%), internal mammary lymph nodes irradiation (39.7%), BC stage (33.5%) and implant-based breast reconstruction (31.6%). ROs working in academic centres (odds ratio, (OR), 1.7; 95% confidence interval, (CI); 1.1-2.6, p = 0.019), practicing in Western Europe (OR, 4.2; 95%CI; 2.7-6.6, p < 0.0005) and/or dedicating >50% of clinical time to BC patients (OR, 2.5; 95%CI; 1.5-4.2, p = 0.001) more likely preferred HFRT. CONCLUSION Although HFRT is recognised as a new standard, its implementation in routine RT clinical practice across Europe varies for numerous reasons. Better dissemination of evidence-based recommendations is advised to improve the level of awareness about this clinical indication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivica Ratosa
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | | | - Elvisa Kozma
- Oncology Service, University Hospital, Tirana, Albania
| | - Radovan Vojtíšek
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Hospital in Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | | | - Philip Poortmans
- Iridium Kankernetwerk, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium; University of Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|