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Ahmad Z, Venkataraman V, Markwart M, Abrams AN, Temel JS, Perez GK. Closing the gap: proposing a socio-ecological framework to make cancer clinical trials more accessible, equitable, and acceptable to adolescents and young adults. Oncologist 2024:oyae257. [PMID: 39331472 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyae257] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This commentary focuses on what would make cancer clinical trials more accessible, equitable, and acceptable to adolescents and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeba Ahmad
- Health Promotion and Resiliency Intervention Research Center (HPRIR), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Center for Psychiatric Oncology and Behavioral Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Vinayak Venkataraman
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Michaela Markwart
- Health Promotion and Resiliency Intervention Research Center (HPRIR), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Annah N Abrams
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Center for Psychiatric Oncology and Behavioral Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mass General for Children, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Mass General for Children, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Mass General Cancer Center, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Giselle K Perez
- Health Promotion and Resiliency Intervention Research Center (HPRIR), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Center for Psychiatric Oncology and Behavioral Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, United States
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Knoerl R, Grandinetti K, Smener L, Doll E, Fecher LA, Henry NL, Karimi Y, Pettit K, Schuetze S, Walling E, Zhang A, Barton D. Exploring Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors' Experience with Cancer Treatment-Related Symptoms: A Qualitative Analysis of Semi-Structured Interviews. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:665-673. [PMID: 38634665 PMCID: PMC11322622 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2024.0053] [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: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Few studies have specifically targeted symptom management interventions for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. A greater understanding of AYA cancer survivors' experiences with cancer treatment-related symptoms would help develop age-appropriate oncology symptom management interventions. The purpose of this qualitative analysis was to explore AYA cancer survivors' experience with cancer treatment-related symptoms. Methods: Nineteen post-treatment AYA cancer survivors (18-39 years old) who self-reported moderate-severe cancer treatment-related symptom severity participated in video conferencing or telephone interviews. The questions in the interview guide queried participants to share their experience with cancer treatment-related symptoms. Inductive content analysis was used to identify themes from the interviews. Results: The themes that emerged from the interviews included (1) cancer treatment-related symptoms negatively affected AYA cancer survivors' quality of life (e.g., symptoms served as a reminder of cancer recurrence possibility); (2) AYA cancer survivors' attitudes and feelings about communicating cancer treatment-related symptom concerns to clinicians (e.g., patient-clinician communication was bolstered when AYAs perceived that symptoms were being taken seriously); (3) AYA cancer survivors are interested in oncology symptom management clinical trials, but logistical challenges are barriers to participation; and (4) AYA cancer survivors are interested in nonpharmacological treatments for symptom management. Conclusion: Results highlight the burden of cancer treatment-related symptoms on day-to-day life among post-treatment AYA cancer survivors. Future work is needed to identify nonpharmacological symptom management interventions, strategies to improve patient-clinician communication about symptoms, and strategies to increase the visibility and accessibility of symptom management clinical trials for AYA cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knoerl
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Liat Smener
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Doll
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Leslie A. Fecher
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - N. Lynn Henry
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yasmin Karimi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kristen Pettit
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Scott Schuetze
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Walling
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anao Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Debra Barton
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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Rosenberg SM, McCue S, He J, Lafky JM, Carey LA, Galanis E, Leonard JP, Meyerhardt J, Ng K, Schwartz GK, Stock W, Paskett ED, Partridge AH, George S. Alliance A151945: Accrual and characteristics of adolescent and young adult patients in Alliance trials from 2000 to 2017. Cancer 2024; 130:750-769. [PMID: 37916800 PMCID: PMC10922614 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35078] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying patient- and disease-specific characteristics associated with clinical trial enrollment of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer may target efforts to improve accrual. METHODS Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology (Alliance) trials opened from January 1, 2000, and closed before January 1, 2018, for common AYA cancers were identified. Proportions of AYAs (aged 18-39 years old) versus non-AYAs (aged ≥40 years old) enrolled by cancer type were summarized by descriptive statistics. Among studies with ≥20 AYAs enrolled, demographic and disease characteristics of AYAs versus non-AYAs were compared with χ2 and Kruskal-Wallis tests. A qualitative review was also conducted of therapeutic trials included in analysis in PubMed through December 31, 2021, that reported AYA-specific survival. RESULTS Among 188 trials enrolling 40,396 patients, AYAs represented 11% (4468 of 40,396) of accrual. AYA accrual varied by cancer type (leukemia, 23.6%; breast, 9.9%; lymphoma, 14.8%; colorectal, 6.2%; central nervous system, 8.1%; melanoma, 11.8%; sarcoma, 12%). Across ages, the proportion of Black and Hispanic patients enrolled was 1%-10%. Compared to non-AYAs, AYAs in breast and colorectal cancer trials were less likely to be White and more likely to be Hispanic. Disease characteristics differed by age for selected trials. Two trials reported AYA-specific survival, with no significant differences observed by age. CONCLUSIONS AYA accrual to Alliance trials was comparable to or exceeded population-based, age-specific prevalence estimates for most cancer types. Greater proportional representation of Hispanic and non-White patients among AYAs reflects US demographic trends. The small number of minority patients enrolled across ages underscores the persistent challenge of ensuring equitable access to trials, including for AYAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shaylene McCue
- Alliance Statistics and Data Management Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Jun He
- Alliance Statistics and Data Management Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Lisa A. Carey
- University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | | | | | | - Kimmie Ng
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Gary K. Schwartz
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY
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Terao M, Mittal N, Roth M, Saha A, Super L, Reichek J. Utilization of Teleconsent for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Clinical Trials, a Report from the Children's Oncology Group. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:132-137. [PMID: 37540127 PMCID: PMC10877395 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs, ages 15-39 years) are underrepresented in oncology clinical trials. Reasons for this include accessibility of the trial and whether the trial is presented to AYAs. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic not only amplified these enrollment challenges but also presented opportunities for improving the enrollment process through virtual methods such as electronic informed consent and teleconsent. While AYAs are well positioned to take advantage of these opportunities, the extent to which institutions utilize remote enrollment processes is unclear. The goal of this study was to identify the utilization of and barriers to using teleconsent for AYA oncology clinical trials. Methods: The Children's Oncology Group (COG) AYA Responsible Investigator (RI) Network Teleconsent Working Group sought to understand teleconsent utilization both before and during the pandemic. The working group developed an online survey distributed via email to COG AYA RI Network members (n = 197). Results: The survey received 49 responses (25%) from 40 different institutions. Before the pandemic, 13% of respondents reported that their institution allowed study enrollment via teleconsent. After the pandemic, 23% reported using teleconsent for clinical trial enrollment and 38% reported changes in institutional Review Board policies and procedures allowing teleconsent. Respondents reported that the greatest benefit of teleconsent was patient convenience and the greatest barrier was institutional restrictions on teleconsent utilization. Respondents reported that sharing institutional guidelines would be the most helpful intervention to improve teleconsent adoption. Conclusion: Teleconsent is a promising but underutilized approach. Institutions should work together to address common challenges to accessibility and acceptance of clinical trials by AYA cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Terao
- Office of Student Learning and Academic Advising, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Nupur Mittal
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Michael Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aniket Saha
- Department of Pediatrics, Prisma Health Upstate Children's Hospital, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Leanne Super
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Cancer Centre, Monash Children's Hospital and Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer Reichek
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Bottinor WJ, Flamand Y, Haas NB, ONeill AM, DiPaola RS, Subramanian P, Cella D, Hundley WG, Wagner LI, Salsman JM, Ky B. Cardiovascular Implications of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibition Among Adolescents/Young Adults in ECOG-ACRIN E2805. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2023; 21:725-731.e1. [PMID: 37433436 PMCID: PMC10494962 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2023.7018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and predictors of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and hypertension among AYAs receiving VEGF inhibition compared with non-AYAs. METHODS This retrospective analysis used data from the ASSURE trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00326898), in which participants with nonmetastatic, high-risk, renal cell cancer were randomized to sunitinib, sorafenib, or placebo. The incidence of LVSD (left ventricular ejection fraction decrease >15%) and hypertension (blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg) were compared using nonparametric tests. Multivariable logistic regression examined the association between AYA status, LVSD, and hypertension while adjusting for clinical factors. RESULTS AYAs represented 7% (103/1,572) of the population. Over a study treatment period of 54 weeks, the incidence of LVSD was not significantly different among AYAs (3%; 95% CI, 0.6%-8.3%) versus non-AYAs (2%; 95% CI, 1.2%-2.7%). The incidence of hypertension was significantly lower among AYAs (18%; 95% CI, 7.5%-33.5%) compared with non-AYAs (46%; 95% CI, 41.9%-50.4%) in the placebo arm. In the sunitinib and sorafenib groups, the incidence of hypertension for AYAs compared with non-AYAs was 29% (95% CI, 15.1%-47.5%) versus 47% (95% CI, 42.3%-51.7%), and 54% (95% CI, 33.9%-72.5%) versus 63% (95% CI, 58.6%-67.7%), respectively. AYA status (odds ratio, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.31-0.75) and female sex (odds ratio, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.59-0.92) were each associated with a lower risk of hypertension. CONCLUSIONS LVSD and hypertension were prevalent among AYAs. CVD among AYAs is only partially explained by cancer therapy. Understanding CVD risk among AYA cancer survivors is important for promoting cardiovascular health in this growing population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy J. Bottinor
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Yael Flamand
- Department of Data Science/ECOG-ACRIN Biostatistics Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Naomi B. Haas
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anne M. ONeill
- Department of Data Science/ECOG-ACRIN Biostatistics Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert S. DiPaola
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | | | - David Cella
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - W. Gregory Hundley
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Lynne I. Wagner
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - John M. Salsman
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Bonnie Ky
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Mobley EM, Thomas SM, Brailsford J, Ochoa CY, Miller K, Applebaum A, Milam J, Freyer DR. Clinical Trial Participation: A Qualitative Study of Adolescents and Younger Adults Recently Diagnosed with Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2023; 12:303-313. [PMID: 35900287 PMCID: PMC10282798 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2022.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Although participation of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in cancer clinical trials (CCTs, i.e., cancer-directed treatment studies) is low, their decision-making perspectives are not well understood, especially following recent diagnosis. Methods: Semistructured interviews with younger AYAs (15-21 years old) eligible for a CCT were to be held within 60 days of beginning treatment at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, an academic pediatric hospital. Using grounded theory methods, key themes regarding CCT participation, barriers, and facilitators were identified from interview transcripts. Thematic saturation was confirmed. Results: Of nine participants, three were <18 years old, four Hispanic, six male, six diagnosed with leukemia, eight enrolled in a CCT, and eight also enrolled in ancillary studies. Four overarching themes emerged: (1) Initial Consent encompassed the first discussion of CCT with patients reflecting positive and negative effects of timing, decisional role, and the emotional impact following cancer diagnosis; (2) Informing Participation involved decision-making processes, specific knowledge, comprehension, and external influences; (3) Participant Relationships emphasized the importance of communication and relationships with providers and parents; and (4) Patient Determinants centered on motives from different perspectives, pre-conceived attitudes, and understanding of CCTs. Conclusion: Recommendations for improving CCT participation among younger AYAs include separating the diagnosis/treatment and CCT discussions, assigning AYAs a meaningful decisional role, having ongoing provider conversations, designing trials to minimize burden, and developing age-appropriate decision aids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M. Mobley
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Stefanie M. Thomas
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Cleveland Clinic Children's, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jennifer Brailsford
- Center for Data Solutions, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Carol Y. Ochoa
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kimberly Miller
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anise Applebaum
- College of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joel Milam
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Program in Public Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - David R. Freyer
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Wolfson JA, Bhatia S, Bhatia R, Smith MW, Dai C, Campbell SB, Gunn DD, Mahoney AB, Croney CM, Hageman L, Francisco L, Kenzik KM. Using Teamwork to Bridge the Adolescent and Young Adult Gap. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e150-e160. [PMID: 36215685 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Individuals diagnosed with cancer age between 15 and 39 years (adolescents and young adults [AYAs]) have not seen improvement in survival compared with children or older adults; clinical trial accrual correlates with survival. Unique unmet needs among AYAs related to psychosocial support and fertility preservation (FP) are associated with health-related quality of life. METHODS We enhanced existing structures and leveraged faculty/staff across pediatric/adult oncology to create novel teams focused on AYA (age 15-39 years) care at a single center, with minimal dedicated staff and no change to revenue streams. We aimed to influence domains shown to drive survival and health-related quality of life: clinical trial enrollment, physician/staff collaboration, psychosocial support, and FP. We captured metrics 3 months after patients presented to the institution and compared them before/after Program implementation using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Among 139 AYAs (age 15-39 years) from the pre-Program era (January 2016-February 2019: adult, n = 79; pediatric, n = 60), and 279 from the post-Program era (February 2019-March 2022: adult, n = 215; pediatric, n = 64), there was no change in clinical trial enrollment(P ≥ .3), whereas there was an increase in the proportion of AYAs referred for supportive care and psychology (pediatric: P ≤ .02; adult: P ≤ .001); whose oncologists discussed FP (pediatric: 15% v 52%, P < .0001; adult: 37% v 50%, P = .0004); and undergoing FP consults (pediatric: 8% v39%, P < .0001; adult 23% v 38%, P = .02). CONCLUSION This team-based framework has effected change in most targeted domains. To affect all domains and design optimal interventions, it is crucial to understand patient-level and facility-level barriers/facilitators to FP and clinical trial enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Wolfson
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.,Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Smita Bhatia
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.,Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Ravi Bhatia
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Mark W Smith
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Chen Dai
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Sukhkamal B Campbell
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Deidre D Gunn
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Anne Byrd Mahoney
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Vanderbilt University, Birmingham, AL
| | - Christina M Croney
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Lindsey Hageman
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Liton Francisco
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Kelly M Kenzik
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.,Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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Knoerl R, Mazzola E, Woods H, Buchbinder E, Frazier L, LaCasce A, Li BT, Luskin MR, Phillips CS, Thornton K, Berry DL, Ligibel JA. Exploring the Feasibility of a Mindfulness-Music Therapy Intervention to Improve Anxiety and Stress in Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:e357-e363. [PMID: 34896280 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adolescent and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience significant psychological distress due to cancer treatment that can persist long after treatment. However, little is known regarding optimal interventions to support the psychosocial needs of AYAs with cancer. OBJECTIVE The overall objective of this single arm, longitudinal, pilot study was to determine the feasibility of implementing a mindfulness-based music therapy intervention to improve anxiety and stress in AYAs receiving cancer treatment. METHODS AYAs (15 - 39 years old) who were to receive cancer treatment for ≥ eight weeks were recruited from the pediatric, melanoma, sarcoma, breast, lymphoma, and leukemia oncology outpatient centers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The music therapy intervention included four sessions of individual mindfulness-based music therapy in-person or using Zoom over twelve weeks. Prior to-and after the intervention period, participants completed the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Anxiety 4a and Perceived Stress Scale. Changes in patient-reported outcomes are compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS Over ∼14 months, 37 of 93 eligible AYAs were enrolled to the study (39.8% consent rate). Overall, 27 of 37 (73%) participants (Median age=32; 56.8% Female) completed at least two music therapy sessions and the baseline measures and end of study measures. Participation in the mindfulness-based music therapy sessions resulted in significant pre-to-posttest improvements in perceived stress (median change: -4.0, P = 0.013) and non-significant changes in anxiety (median change: -1.9, P = 0.20). Satisfaction and acceptability were highly rated. CONCLUSIONS The delivery of a four-session mindfulness-based music therapy intervention to AYAs receiving chemotherapy was feasible and significantly improved perceived stress. These preliminary findings should be confirmed in a randomized controlled trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03709225.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knoerl
- Phyllis F. Cantor Center for Research in Nursing and Patient Care Services (R.K., C.S.P.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Emanuele Mazzola
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology (E.M.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Heather Woods
- The Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living (H.W.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth Buchbinder
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.B., A.L., M.R.L., J.A.L.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lindsay Frazier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology (L.F.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ann LaCasce
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.B., A.L., M.R.L., J.A.L.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Belinda T Li
- School of Medicine (B.T.L.), Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marlise R Luskin
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.B., A.L., M.R.L., J.A.L.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carolyn S Phillips
- Phyllis F. Cantor Center for Research in Nursing and Patient Care Services (R.K., C.S.P.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine Thornton
- Department of Medical Oncology (K.T.), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Donna L Berry
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics (D.L.B.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jennifer A Ligibel
- Department of Medical Oncology (E.B., A.L., M.R.L., J.A.L.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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9
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Mittal N, Saha A, Avutu V, Monga V, Freyer DR, Roth M. Shared barriers and facilitators to enrollment of adolescents and young adults on cancer clinical trials. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3875. [PMID: 35264642 PMCID: PMC8907177 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07703-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) enrollment in cancer clinical trials (CCT) is suboptimal. Few studies have explored site level barriers and facilitators to AYA enrollment on CCTs and the efficacy of interventions to enhance enrollment. A cross sectional survey was developed by the COG AYA Oncology Discipline Committee Responsible Investigator (RI) Network to identify perceived barriers and facilitators to enrollment, as well as opportunities to improve enrollment. Associations of barriers and facilitators to enrollment with program demographics were assessed. The survey was sent to all AYA RI Network members (n = 143) and quantitative and thematic analyses were conducted. The overall response rate was 42% (n = 60/143). Participants represented diverse institutions based on size, presence or absence of dedicated AYA programs, and proximity and relationship between pediatric and medical oncology practices within the institution. The most frequently cited barriers to enrolling AYAs in CCTs were administrative logistical issues (45%), disparate enrollment practices (42%) and communication issues (27%) between pediatric and medical oncology and perceived limited trial availability (27%). The most frequently reported facilitators to enrollment included having strong communication between pediatric and medical oncology (48%), having a supportive research infrastructure (35%) and the presence of AYA champions (33%). Many barriers and facilitators were similar across institutions and AYA program types. Shared barriers and facilitators to AYA CCT enrollment exist across the landscape of cancer care settings. Interventions aimed at increasing coordination between pediatric and medical oncology clinical trials offices and providers have high potential to improve site-level AYA enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Mittal
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aniket Saha
- Department of Pediatrics, Prisma Health Children's Hospital, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Viswatej Avutu
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Varun Monga
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - David R Freyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael Roth
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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10
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Siembida EJ, Loomans-Kropp HA, Tami-Maury I, Freyer DR, Sung L, Crosswell HE, Pollock BH, Roth ME. Comparing Barriers and Facilitators to Adolescent and Young Adult Clinical Trial Enrollment Across High- and Low-Enrolling Community-Based Clinics. Oncologist 2022; 27:363-370. [PMID: 35522559 PMCID: PMC9074986 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer are underrepresented on cancer clinical trials (CCTs), and most AYAs are treated in the community setting. Past research has focused on individual academic institutions, but factors impacting enrollment vary across institutions. Therefore, we examined the patterns of barriers and facilitators between high- and low-AYA enrolling community-based clinics to identify targets for intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted 34 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders employed used at National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) affiliate sites ("clinics"). Stakeholders (eg, clinical research associates, patient advocates) were recruited from high- and low-AYA enrolling clinics. We conducted a content analysis and calculated the percentage of stakeholders from each clinic type that reported the barrier or facilitator. A 10% gap between high- and low-enrollers was considered the threshold for differences. RESULTS Both high- and low-enrollers highlighted insufficient resources as a barrier and the presence of a patient eligibility screening process as a facilitator to AYA enrollment. High-enrolling clinics reported physician gatekeeping as a barrier and the improvement of departmental collaboration as a facilitator. Low-enrollers reported AYAs' uncertainty regarding the CCT process as a barrier and the need for increased physician endorsement of CCTs as a facilitator. CONCLUSIONS High-enrolling clinics reported more barriers downstream in the enrollment process, such as physician gatekeeping. In contrast, low-enrolling clinics struggled with the earlier steps in the CCT enrollment process, such as identifying eligible trials. These findings highlight the need for multi-level, tailored interventions rather than a "one-size-fits-all" approach to improve AYA enrollment in the community setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Siembida
- Institute of Health System Science, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA,Corresponding author: Elizabeth J. Siembida, Institute of Health System Science, Northwell Health, 600 Community Drive, Suite 403, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA. Tel: (516) 600-1757;
| | - Holli A Loomans-Kropp
- Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA,Gastrointestinal and Other Cancers Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Irene Tami-Maury
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David R Freyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lillian Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Brad H Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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11
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Avutu V, Monga V, Mittal N, Saha A, Andolina JR, Bell DE, Fair DB, Flerlage JE, Frediani JN, Heath JL, Kahn JM, Reichek JL, Super L, Terao MA, Freyer DR, Roth ME. Use of Communication Technology to Improve Clinical Trial Participation in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Consensus Statement From the Children's Oncology Group Adolescent and Young Adult Responsible Investigator Network. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:224-231. [PMID: 34905405 PMCID: PMC8932547 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (AYAs; age 15-39 years) with cancer are under-represented in cancer clinical trials because of patient, provider, and institutional barriers. Health care technology is increasingly available to and highly used among AYAs and has the potential to improve cancer care delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic forced institutions to rapidly adopt novel approaches for enrollment and monitoring of patients on cancer clinical trials, many of which have the potential for improving AYA trial participation overall. This consensus statement from the Children's Oncology Group AYA Oncology Discipline Committee reviews opportunities to use technology to optimize AYA trial enrollment and study conduct, as well as considerations for widespread implementation of these practices. The use of remote patient eligibility screening, electronic informed consent, virtual tumor boards, remote study visits, and remote patient monitoring are recommended to increase AYA access to trials and decrease the burden of participation. Widespread adoption of these strategies will require new policies focusing on reimbursement for telehealth, license portability, facile communication between electronic health record systems and advanced safeguards to maintain patient privacy and security. Studies are needed to determine optimal approaches to further incorporate technology at every stage of the clinical trial process, from enrollment through study completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viswatej Avutu
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; New York, NY,Viswatej Avutu, MD, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 E 66th Floor 14, New York, NY 10065; e-mail:
| | - Varun Monga
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Nupur Mittal
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Aniket Saha
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, SC
| | - Jeffrey R. Andolina
- Department of Pediatrics, Golisano Children's Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Danielle E. Bell
- Department of Pediatrics, Ascension St John Hospital, Detroit, MI
| | - Douglas B. Fair
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Primary Children's Hospital, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Jamie E. Flerlage
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | - Jessica L. Heath
- Departments of Pediatrics and Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | - Justine M. Kahn
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Jennifer L. Reichek
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Leanne Super
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael A. Terao
- Division of Pediatric Adolescent and Young Adult Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - David R. Freyer
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Michael E. Roth
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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12
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Mittal N, Langevin AM, Kyono W, Dickens DS, Grimes A, Salsman JM, Pollock BH, Roth M. Barriers to Pediatric Oncologist Enrollment of Adolescents and Young Adults on a Cross-Network National Clinical Trials Network Supportive Care Cancer Clinical Trial. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2022; 11:117-121. [PMID: 33983848 PMCID: PMC8864435 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies have explored interventions to improve adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer care delivery. While many AYAs receive cancer care at NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) sites, few enroll on clinical trials. Barriers and facilitators to pediatric oncologist activation of and enrollment on an AYA cross-network National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) supportive care trial were assessed using a survey that was administered to 162 stakeholders representing all 47 children's oncology group (COG) institutions affiliated to an NCORP. Fifty-eight stakeholders participated representing 62% of all sites surveyed. Approximately half of participants (45%) were unaware of the trial. Seven sites had the study open and one enrolled a patient. Reasons for not opening and enrolling on the trial included limited research staff and resources, low anticipated accrual, and lower prioritization of the trial. Enrollment facilitators included having a local "AYA champion," improving communication between pediatric and medical oncology, and having site education on available AYA trials. Interventions focused on increasing site and provider awareness of AYA trials and decreasing local barriers to AYA enrollment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Mittal
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Address correspondence to: Nupur Mittal, MD, Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Children's Hospital, 1725 West Harrison Street Suite 710, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
| | - Anne-Marie Langevin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Wade Kyono
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - David S. Dickens
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Holden Comprehensive Cancer, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Allison Grimes
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - John M. Salsman
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brad H. Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Michael Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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Unger JM, Beauchemin M, Hershman DL. Adolescent and young adult enrollment to a National Cancer Institute-sponsored National Clinical Trials Network Research Group over 25 years. Cancer 2021; 127:4574-4584. [PMID: 34351619 PMCID: PMC8665001 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer have not seen the same improvements in survival as younger (pediatric) patients and older patients (adults 40 years old or older). This may be related to their lower participation in clinical trials. METHODS This study examined AYA patient accrual to SWOG Cancer Research Network phase 1 to 3 clinical treatment trials for 29 cancers over 25 years (January 1996 to December 2020). Trial enrollments for AYA patients (15-39 years old) were compared with trial enrollments for older patients (40 years old or older) in SWOG and with US AYA cancer population rates derived from US Census and National Cancer Institute/Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data. RESULTS In total, 84,219 patients were enrolled in SWOG treatment trials, including 7109 AYA patients (8.4%); in contrast, AYAs constituted 3.8% of the US cancer population. By histology, the highest proportions of AYA patients were in trials for Hodgkin disease (825 of 1220; 67.6%) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (350 of 678; 51.6%), whereas breast cancer trials had the greatest number of AYA patients (3032 of 32,693; 9.3%). SWOG AYA patients were more often female (68.8% vs 58.7%; P < .001), Black (10.1% vs 8.2%; P < .001), and Hispanic (10.6% vs 5.6%; P < .001) than SWOG patients who were 40 years old or older, and they were more often female (68.8% vs 65.1%; P < .001) but less often Black (10.1% vs 11.8%; P < .001) or Hispanic (10.6% vs 12.8%; P < .001) than AYA patients in the US cancer population. CONCLUSIONS AYA patients with cancer were well represented in SWOG clinical trials in comparison with US cancer population patients with the same cancers. The SWOG AYA population was more racially/ethnically diverse than older SWOG patients, although it was less diverse than the US AYA cancer population. LAY SUMMARY Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer (aged 15-39 years) have not seen the same improvements in survival as younger (pediatric) patients and older patients (adults 40 years old or older). This may be related to their lower participation in clinical trials. This study evaluated the extent to which AYA patients were enrolled in a large, National Cancer Institute-sponsored network group over 25 years (1996-2020). Overall, 8.4% of the enrolled patients (7109 of 84,219) were AYAs; this was twice the corresponding rate of 3.8% in the US cancer population. AYA patients were also more racially/ethnically diverse than older trial patients, although they were less racially/ethnically diverse than the US AYA cancer population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M. Unger
- SWOG Statistics & Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Dawn L. Hershman
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
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14
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Berkman AM, Murphy KM, Siembida EJ, Lau N, Geng Y, Parsons SK, Salsman JM, Roth ME. Inclusion of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adolescent and Young Adult Phase III Therapeutic Trials: An Analysis of Cancer Clinical Trials Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 24:1820-1827. [PMID: 34838280 PMCID: PMC8630401 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is a paucity of research on the impact of cancer treatment on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are self-report measures used to assess HRQOL and symptom burden. The extent to which PROs have been included in trials that include common AYA cancer types has not been previously assessed. METHODS Therapeutic phase 3 trials among common AYA cancer types (Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, sarcomas, and germ cell tumors) initiated between 2007 and 2020 were identified on ClinicalTrials.gov. The proportions and characteristics of trials including a PRO endpoint were assessed. For comparison with an older population, the proportion of breast and colorectal therapeutic phase 3 trials including PRO endpoints were assessed. RESULTS Eighty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 20.7% of therapeutic phase 3 AYA trials included a PRO endpoint, and only one trial published PRO data. Germ cell tumors (42.9%) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (40%) trials had the highest proportions of PRO inclusion. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer generic, cancer-specific quality of life questionnaire was the most commonly used PRO measure; nevertheless, the measures used varied within and between cancer types. The proportion of trials including a PRO endpoint did not change significantly between 2007 to 2013 and 2014 to 2020 (18.6% vs 22.7%, P=.79). CONCLUSIONS Few therapeutic phase 3 AYA cancer trials include PRO endpoints, fewer publish PRO data, and there is no homogeneity in the measures administered. Therapeutic trials represent an underused opportunity to capture PRO data in the AYA population with the goal of improving HRQOL outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M Berkman
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Karly M Murphy
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Siembida
- Center for Health Innovation and Outcomes Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Nancy Lau
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Palliative Care and Resilience Research Center, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yimin Geng
- Research Medical Library, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Susan K Parsons
- Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies and the Division of Hematology/Oncology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John M Salsman
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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15
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Cheung CK, Tucker-Seeley R, Davies S, Gilman M, Miller KA, Lopes G, Betz GD, Katerere-Virima T, Helbling LE, Thomas BN, Lewis MA. A call to action: Antiracist patient engagement in adolescent and young adult oncology research and advocacy. Future Oncol 2021; 17:3743-3756. [PMID: 34263658 PMCID: PMC10918508 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-1213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amidst the concurrent global crises of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), uprisings against Anti-Black racism and police brutality, as well as anti-Asian racism and violence, the field of medicine found itself simultaneously called upon to respond as essential workers in the public health devastation of COVID-19, and as representatives of healthcare institutions wrought with the impacts of systemic racism. Clinicians, researchers, and advocates in adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology, must come together in authentic activism to begin the work of creating structural change to advance antiracist approaches to patient engagement in AYA oncology research and advocacy. Critical review of existing practices is needed to ensure that ethical and effective research methods are employed when engaging with racial and ethnic minority AYA patients with cancer, who may be particularly vulnerable and exploited in the current context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christabel K Cheung
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, 525 West Redwood St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Reginald Tucker-Seeley
- University of Southern California, Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | | | - Megan Gilman
- AYA Psychiatry, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kimberly A Miller
- Department of Preventive Medicine, USC Center for Young Adult Cancer Survivorship Research, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Gilberto Lopes
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Gail D Betz
- University of Maryland Health Sciences and Human Services Library, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Thuli Katerere-Virima
- University of Maryland Health Sciences and Human Services Library, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Laura E Helbling
- University of Maryland Health Sciences and Human Services Library, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Bria N Thomas
- Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Mark A Lewis
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Intermountain Healthcare, Murray, UT 84107, USA
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16
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Murphy CC, Lupo PJ, Roth ME, Winick NJ, Pruitt SL. Disparities in Cancer Survival Among Adolescents and Young Adults: A Population-Based Study of 88 000 Patients. J Natl Cancer Inst 2021; 113:1074-1083. [PMID: 33484568 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djab006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adults (AYA, aged 15-39 years) diagnosed with cancer comprise a growing, yet understudied, population. Few studies have examined disparities in cancer survival in underserved and diverse populations of AYA. METHODS Using population-based data from the Texas Cancer Registry, we estimated 5-year relative survival of common AYA cancers and examined disparities in survival by race and ethnicity, neighborhood poverty, urban or rural residence, and insurance type. We also used multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models to examine associations of race or ethnicity, neighborhood poverty, urban or rural residence, and insurance type with all-cause mortality. RESULTS We identified 55 316 women and 32 740 men diagnosed with invasive cancer at age 15-39 years between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2016. There were disparities in relative survival by race and ethnicity, poverty, and insurance for many cancer types. Racial and ethnic disparities in survival for men with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (74.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 72.1% to 76.7%] White vs 57.0% [95% CI = 51.9% to 61.8%] Black) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (66.5% [95% CI = 61.4% to 71.0%] White vs 44.4% [95% CI = 39.9% to 48.8%] Hispanic) were striking, and disparities remained even for cancers with excellent prognosis, such as testicular cancer (96.6% [95% CI = 95.9% to 97.2%] White vs 88.7% [95% CI = 82.4% to 92.8%] Black). In adjusted analysis, being Black or Hispanic, living in high-poverty neighborhoods, and having Medicaid, other government insurance, or no insurance at diagnosis were associated with all-cause mortality in both women and men (all 2-sided P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Our study adds urgency to well-documented disparities in cancer survival in older adults by demonstrating persistent differences in relative survival and all-cause mortality in AYAs. Findings point to several areas of future research to address disparities in this unique population of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin C Murphy
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Philip J Lupo
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Naomi J Winick
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Sandi L Pruitt
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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17
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McLeod KL, Skinner AM, Beaupin LK, Vadaparampil ST, Fridley BL, Reed DR. Clinical Trial Availability by Location for 1000 Simulated AYA Patients. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:95-103. [PMID: 33983850 PMCID: PMC8864422 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology patients are less likely to enroll in clinical trials than pediatric patients. After two decades of effort to improve enrollments, challenges remain. We sought to explore where phase II and phase III trials are available for an AYA cohort. Methods: Based on the epidemiology of AYA cancers and outcomes, we assembled a simulated data set of 1000 patients (AYAsims). Available phase II and phase III trials were matched to diseases and treatment setting (relapsed or newly diagnosed) and characterized by sponsor (industry, National Clinical Trials Network [NCTN], investigator initiated) and location (Moffitt Cancer Center [MCC], community or pediatric). Results: The majority of AYAsims had potential first line (64.4%) and/or relapsed (68.1%) trials. The majority of these opportunities were industry-sponsored trials available at MCC. Phase II trials for relapsed cancer were most often at the MCC and more likely to be investigator-initiated trials. Trial availability for histologies varied widely, likely reflective of the overall epidemiology of cancers beyond the AYA age range. Pediatric hospitals offered trials for select cancers but had a trial portfolio that matched the fewest number of AYAsims. Conclusions: In general, newly diagnosed AYA patients have trial enrollment opportunities in both the community and comprehensive cancer center setting with select diagnoses having more trials in pediatric hospitals. Relapsed AYA patients have the most trial opportunities at a comprehensive cancer center. A facile system that navigates patients across health systems would maximize potential AYA trial enrollments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L McLeod
- Department of Individualized Cancer Management, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Amber M Skinner
- Department of Individualized Cancer Management, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Lynda K Beaupin
- Cancer and Blood Disorder Institute, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
| | - Susan T Vadaparampil
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Office of Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Brooke L Fridley
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Damon R Reed
- Department of Individualized Cancer Management, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
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18
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Siembida EJ, Loomans-Kropp HA, Tami-Maury I, Freyer DR, Sung L, Crosswell HE, Pollock BH, Roth ME. Barriers and Facilitators to Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Trial Enrollment: NCORP Site Perspectives. JNCI Cancer Spectr 2021; 5:pkab027. [PMID: 34104866 PMCID: PMC8178801 DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkab027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although it is well documented that adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have low participation in cancer clinical trials (CCTs), the underlying reasons are not well understood. We used the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) network to identify barriers and facilitators to AYA CCT enrollment, and strategies to improve enrollment at community-based and minority and/or underserved sites. Methods We performed one-on-one semistructured qualitative interviews with stakeholders (NCORP site principle investigators, NCORP administrators, physicians involved in enrollment, lead clinical research associates or clinical research nurses, nurse navigators, regulatory research associates, patient advocates) in the AYA CCT enrollment process. NCORP sites that included high and low AYA–enrolling affiliate sites and were diverse in geography and department representation (eg, pediatrics, medical oncology) were invited to participate. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. Themes related to barriers and facilitators and strategies to improve enrollment were identified. Results We conducted 43 interviews across 10 NCORP sites. Eleven barriers and 13 facilitators to AYA enrollment were identified. Main barriers included perceived limited trial availability and eligibility, physician gatekeeping, lack of provider and research staff time, and financial constraints. Main facilitators and strategies to improve AYA enrollment included having a patient screening process, physician endorsement of trials, an “AYA champion” on site, and strong communication between medical and pediatric oncology. Conclusions Stakeholders identified several opportunities to address barriers contributing to low AYA CCT enrollment at community-based and minority and/or underserved sites. Results of this study will inform development and implementation of targeted interventions to increase AYA CCT enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Siembida
- Center for Health Innovation and Outcomes Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Holli A Loomans-Kropp
- Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA.,Division of Cancer Prevention, Gastrointestinal and Other Cancers Research Group, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Irene Tami-Maury
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David R Freyer
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lillian Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Brad H Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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19
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Biller LH, Ng K. Pioneering a new care model for young-onset colorectal cancer: innovations in clinical care and scientific discovery. COLORECTAL CANCER 2020. [DOI: 10.2217/crc-2020-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leah H Biller
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Kimmie Ng
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Dickens DS, Roth ME, Pollock BH, Langevin AM. Understanding the Barriers to Pediatric Oncologist Engagement and Accrual to Clinical Trials in National Cancer Institute-Designated Community Oncology Research Programs. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e1060-e1066. [PMID: 32396490 PMCID: PMC7564137 DOI: 10.1200/jop.19.00707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE: Clinical trial participation leads to progress in cancer care. Principal investigators (PIs) and clinical research associates (CRAs) play key roles in the provision and maintenance of clinical trial portfolios at their sites. Previous studies have evaluated the educational and resource needs of adult oncology providers, but nothing to date has focused on providers of pediatric oncology care. We aimed to identify the educational needs and clinical trial participation barriers at National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) Children’s Oncology Group (COG) sites to improve the quality of site investigator engagement. METHODS: Quality improvement surveys of pediatric clinical research staff at NCORP sites were performed. The first was a web-based inquiry of NCORP COG PIs and lead CRAs to assess their general understanding of NCORP organizational structure and needs. The second survey of COG PIs was conducted by one-on-one telephone interviews aimed at identifying specific barriers to physician engagement and patient enrollment in clinical trial research. RESULTS: The majority of NCORP COG PIs and CRAs (63%) reported an incomplete understanding of NCORP structure, with approximately half expressing interest in developing stronger collaborations and engagement. Most NCORP COG PIs reported at least one shared barrier to clinical trial enrollment (78%), with inadequate protected time and research support (39% each) being the most frequently cited barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Contributions to pediatric cancer clinical research at COG NCORP sites could be enhanced through improved education, resources, and time allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Dickens
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA
| | - Michael E Roth
- Department of Pediatrics Patient Care, Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Brad H Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Davis, CA
| | - Anne-Marie Langevin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, The University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
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Roth ME, Unger JM, O'Mara AM, Lewis MA, Budd T, Johnson RH, Pollock BH, Blanke C, Freyer DR. Enrollment of adolescents and young adults onto SWOG cancer research network clinical trials: A comparative analysis by treatment site and era. Cancer Med 2020; 9:2146-2152. [PMID: 32009305 PMCID: PMC7064039 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Few adolescents and young adults (AYAs, 15‐39 years old) enroll onto cancer clinical trials, which hinders research otherwise having the potential to improve outcomes in this unique population. Prior studies have reported that AYAs are more likely to receive cancer care in community settings. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has led efforts to increase trial enrollment through its network of NCI‐designated cancer centers (NCICC) combined with community outreach through its Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP; replaced by the NCI Community Oncology Research Program in 2014). Methods Using AYA proportional enrollment (the proportion of total enrollments who were AYAs) as the primary outcome, we examined enrollment of AYAs onto SWOG therapeutic trials at NCICC, CCOP, and non‐NCICC/non‐CCOP sites from 2004 to 2013 by type of site, study period (2004‐08 vs 2009‐13), and patient demographics. Results Overall, AYA proportional enrollment was 10.1%. AYA proportional enrollment decreased between 2004‐2008 and 2009‐2013 (13.1% vs 8.5%, P < .001), and was higher at NCICCs than at CCOPs and non‐NCICC/non‐CCOPs (14.1% vs 8.3% and 9.2%, respectively; P < .001). AYA proportional enrollment declined significantly at all three site types. Proportional enrollment of AYAs who were Black or Hispanic was significantly higher at NCICCs compared with CCOPs or non‐NCICC/non‐CCOPs (11.5% vs 8.8, P = .048 and 11.5% vs 8.6%, P = .03, respectively). Conclusion Not only did community sites enroll a lower proportion of AYAs onto cancer clinical trials, but AYA enrollment decreased in all study settings. Initiatives aimed at increasing AYA enrollment, particularly in the community setting with attention to minority status, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Roth
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph M Unger
- SWOG Cancer Research Network Statistics and Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ann M O'Mara
- Community Oncology and Prevention Trials Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Troy Budd
- Community Oncology and Prevention Trials Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca H Johnson
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center and Tacoma General Hospital, Tacoma, WA, USA
| | - Brad H Pollock
- Department of Public Health Sciences and the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Charles Blanke
- Southwest Oncology Group Chair's Office and Knight Cancer Center Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - David R Freyer
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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