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Zhu S, Cheng Z, Wu Z, Liang Q, Chen S, Zhang J, Chen Z, Lin F, Chen Y, Wang J. The Association Between Socioeconomic Factors at Diagnosis and Survival in Medulloblastoma: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis and Population-Based Study. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:1843-1856. [PMID: 37548855 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01656-9] [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: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor of childhood. The associations between socioeconomic statuses (SES) and survival outcomes of medulloblastoma remain unclear. The aim of this study was to develop a nomogram to predict medulloblastoma specific death (MBSD) and overall survival (OS) in patients with medulloblastoma, taking into account socioeconomic factors in patients with medulloblastoma. METHODS We included patients diagnosed with MB between 1975 and 2016 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was performed to reduce selection bias. Multivariate cox proportional hazards model was used to assess SES impact and clinically relevant variables of medulloblastoma specific death and overall survival. Independent prognostic factors determined by multivariate analysis were used to construct nomograms. RESULTS A total of 2660 patients were enrolled after matching. Study showed unemployed rate (MBSD, high level vs. low level, P = 0.020) (OS, high level vs. low level, P = 0.017), and marital status (OS, married vs unmarried/unknown, P = 0.029) were important factors affecting prognosis of medulloblastoma in male. Meanwhile, median household income (MBSD, quartile 1 vs. quartile 3, P = 0.047) (OS, quartile 1 vs. quartile 2, P = 0.017) (OS, quartile 1 vs. quartile 3, P = 0.014), residence (MBSD, urban vs. rural, P = 0.041), and insurance status (MBSD, insured vs. uninsured/unknown, P = 0.002)(OS, insured vs. uninsured/unknown, P = 0.001) were significant factors affecting prognosis of medulloblastoma in female. Through the calibration plot and C-index test, our nomogram was also of predictive significance. CONCLUSIONS The unique features of MB have provided a scenario for analysis of the impact of racial, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic factors. The current findings have important public health implications for achieving the goal of a healthy population. Given the known morbidity rates, long-term psychological, financial and medical burdens that these children and their families must bear, it is critical to identify and address these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihan Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuqing Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zuqing Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiangtian Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenghe Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fuhua Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yinsheng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
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Dos Santos ICL, da Silva Vargas Silva G, Murad LB, Murad LD. Nutritional status and inflammatory markers as survival predictors in pediatric central nervous system tumors. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 57:89-95. [PMID: 37739738 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.06.020] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Central nervous system tumors (CNS) are the second most common malignancies in childhood. Inflammation and changes in nutritional status play an important role and can be used as prognostic markers. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of nutritional status and inflammatory markers on overall survival (OS) of pediatric patients with CNS. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, 103 patients were followed for 5 years. Clinical, anthropometric, and hematological data were collected. Body mass index for age (BMI/A), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) were calculated. OS curves were calculated using the Kaplan Meier method and evaluated using the Log-Rank test. The Cox proportional hazards model was performed to identify independent variables associated with prognostic factors, generating hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Nutritional status did not significantly affect OS. However, patients with NLR ≥2.18 and SIRI ≥1249.18 had significantly lower OS in 5 years. Only treatment and high NLR were identified as independent prognostic factors for worse OS. Treatment with exclusive radiotherapy or chemotherapy (HR: 16.22, 95% CI: 2.19-120.07) and NLR (HR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.02-3.69) were identified as independent prognostic factors for worse OS at 5 years. CONCLUSION High pretreatment NLR was shown to be an independent prognostic factor for OS in pediatric patients with CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Cristine Lôpo Dos Santos
- Nutrition and Dietetics Section, Brazilian National Cancer Institute Jose Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Gabrielle da Silva Vargas Silva
- Nutrition and Dietetics Section, Brazilian National Cancer Institute Jose Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Borges Murad
- Nutrition and Dietetics Section, Brazilian National Cancer Institute Jose Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Luana Dalbem Murad
- Nutrition and Dietetics Section, Brazilian National Cancer Institute Jose Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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Young AL, Monuteaux MC, Cooney TM, Michelson KA. Predictors of Delayed Diagnosis of Pediatric CNS Tumors in the Emergency Department. Pediatr Emerg Care 2023; 39:617-622. [PMID: 37079623 PMCID: PMC10527910 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Central nervous system (CNS) tumor diagnoses are frequently delayed in children, which may lead to adverse outcomes and undue burdens on families. Examination of factors associated with delayed emergency department (ED) diagnosis could identify approaches to reduce delays. STUDY DESIGN We performed a case-control study using data from 2014 to 2017 for 6 states. We included children aged 6 months to 17 years with a first diagnosis of CNS tumor in the ED. Cases had a delayed diagnosis, defined as 1 or more ED visits in the 140 days preceding tumor diagnosis (the mean prediagnostic symptomatic interval for pediatric CNS tumors in the United States). Controls had no such preceding visit. RESULTS We included 2828 children (2139 controls, 76%; 689 cases, 24%). Among cases, 68% had 1 preceding ED visit, 21% had 2, and 11% had 3 or more. Significant predictors of delayed diagnosis included presence of a complex chronic condition (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 9.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.67-14.20), rural hospital location (aOR, 6.37; 95% CI, 1.80-22.54), nonteaching hospital status (aOR, 3.05, compared with teaching hospitals; 95% CI, 1.94-4.80), age younger than 5 years (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.16-2.12), public insurance (aOR, 1.49, compared with private; 95% CI, 1.16-1.92), and Black race (aOR, 1.42, compared with White; 95% CI, 1.01-1.98). CONCLUSIONS Delayed ED diagnosis of pediatric CNS tumors is common and frequently requires multiple ED encounters. Prevention of delays should focus on careful evaluation of young or chronically ill children, mitigating disparities for Black and publicly insured children, and improving pediatric readiness in rural and nonteaching EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann L Young
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Michael C Monuteaux
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Tabitha M Cooney
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Kenneth A Michelson
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
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Moore KJ, Barragan F, Williams LA. Survival disparities for childhood cancers exist when defined by race/ethnicity and sex. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102262. [PMID: 36126471 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102262] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are documented racial/ethnic and sex differences in pediatric cancer survival; however, it is unknown whether pediatric cancer survival disparities exist when race/ethnicity and sex are considered jointly. METHODS Using SEER data (2000-2017), we estimated survival differences by race/ethnicity within sexes and by sex within race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander [API]) for 17 cancers in children aged (0-19 years). Kaplan-Meier curves (Log-Rank p-values) were assessed. Cox regression was used to estimate hazards ratios (HRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs) between race/ethnicity/sex and cancer. RESULTS We included 51,759 cases (53.6 % male, 51.9 % White). There were statistically significant differences in 18-year survival by race/ethnicity-sex for 12/17 cancers. Within sexes, minorities had an increased risk of death compared to Whites for various cancers including acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (females: HispanicHR: 1.78, 95 % CI: 1.52, 2.10; BlackHR: 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.29, 2.24; APIHR: 1.42, 95 % CI: 1.07-1.89; males ALL: HispanicHR: 1.58, 95 % CI: 1.39,1.79; BlackHR: 1.57, 95 % CI: 1.26,1,95; API-HR: 1.39, 95 % CI: 1.11, 1.75) and astrocytoma (females: HispanicHR: 1.49, 95 % CI: 1.19, 1.85; BlackHR: 1.67, 95 % CI: 1.29, 2.17; API-HR: 1.51, 95 % CI: 1.05, 2.15; males: HispanicHR:1.27, 95 % CI: 1.04, 1.56; BlackHR: 1.69, 95 % CI: 1.32, 2.17; API-HR: 1.92, 95 % CI: 1.43, 2.58). Sex differences in survival within racial/ethnic groups were observed for White (ALL, osteosarcoma), Hispanic (medulloblastoma), and API (Primitive Neuro-Ectodermal Tumor [PNET]) children. CONCLUSIONS There are disparities in survival by both race/ethnicity and sex highlighting the societal and biologic influences these features have on survival in children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin J Moore
- Program in Health Disparities Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Freddy Barragan
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States; Macalester College, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Lindsay A Williams
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States; Brain Tumor Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
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Kahla JA, Siegel DA, Dai S, Lupo PJ, Foster JH, Scheurer ME, Heczey AA. Incidence and 5-year survival of children and adolescents with hepatoblastoma in the United States. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29763. [PMID: 35591805 PMCID: PMC9658228 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common pediatric primary malignant liver tumor, its incidence has been increasing worldwide, but recent changes in incidence and outcomes with high population coverage are not well characterized. METHODS We defined the incidence of HB diagnosed during 2003-2017 from United States Cancer Statistics (USCS) database, and survival during 2001-2016 from the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR). Data were stratified by sex, race/ethnicity, age, tumor stage, county population, and diagnosis year. Incidence trends were assessed by calculating average annual percent change (AAPC) using Joinpoint regression. Differences in overall 5-year survival were estimated using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS 2178 HB cases with an annual incidence rate of 1.76 per million persons were identified and incidence increased over time (AAPC = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.9-3.6). The 5-year relative survival was 76.9% (95% CI: 74.9-78.8) and the risk of death was lower for cases diagnosed after 2009 (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.63-0.94), higher for ages 3-7 years and 8-19 years compared to 0-2 years (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.10-1.76 and 1.83, 95% CI: 1.31-2.70, respectively), for distant compared to locoregional stage (HR = 2.77, 95% CI: 2.27-3.36), and for non-Hispanic Black compared to non-Hispanic White cases (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.02-1.84). CONCLUSIONS HB incidence increased, and survival improved over the study period. Disparities in survival exist by age, race or ethnicity, and stage. Further studies could identify factors affecting increases in HB cases, inform future interventions, and address disparities in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A Kahla
- Baylor College of Medicine, School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David A Siegel
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Shifan Dai
- Cyberdata Technologies, Inc., Herndon, Virginia, USA
| | - Philip J Lupo
- Section Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer H Foster
- Section Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael E Scheurer
- Section Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Andras A Heczey
- Section Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
- Advanced Innate Cell Therapy Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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McEvoy MT, Siegel DA, Dai S, Okcu MF, Zobeck M, Venkatramani R, Lupo PJ. Pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma incidence and survival in the United States: An assessment of 5656 cases, 2001-2017. Cancer Med 2022; 12:3644-3656. [PMID: 36069287 PMCID: PMC9939205 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and adolescents, past epidemiology studies of this malignancy used data that covered <30% of the US population. Therefore, we evaluated RMS incidence using data from U.S. Cancer Statistics (USCS) and survival trends using the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR), which covers 100% and 94% of the U.S. population, respectively. METHODS Incidence and survival were assessed for pediatric patients diagnosed with RMS during 2003-2017 and 2001-2016, respectively. Both demographic and clinical variables were evaluated. Age-adjusted incidence rates, average annual percent change (AAPC), and 5-year relative survival (RS) were calculated, all with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Cox regression models were used to evaluate the impact of demographic and clinical variables on survival. RESULTS We identified 5656 primary RMS cases in USCS during 2003-2017. The age-adjusted incidence rate was 4.58 per 1 million (95% CI: 4.46-4.70) with an AAPC of 0.3% (95% CI: -0.7 to 1.2%). In NPCR, 5-year RS for all cases was 68.0% (95% CI: 66.6-69.3%). In multivariable analyses, non-Hispanic (NH) Black cases had worse survival compared with NH White cases (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.01-1.33). CONCLUSION The incidence and survival rates were stable in the largest and most comprehensive population-based analysis for pediatric RMS cases in the U.S. Additionally, we observed a survival disparity among NH Black cases. Findings from this study could inform interventions to address disparities, risk stratification strategies, and clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T. McEvoy
- Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
| | - David A. Siegel
- Division of Cancer Prevention and ControlCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Shifan Dai
- Division of Cancer Prevention and ControlCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- CyberData Technologies, Inc.HerndonVirginiaUSA
| | - Mehmet Fatih Okcu
- Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Mark Zobeck
- Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
| | | | - Philip J. Lupo
- Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTexasUSA
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Race, Zoonoses and Animal Assisted Interventions in Pediatric Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137772. [PMID: 35805427 PMCID: PMC9265881 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence accumulates regarding the benefits of animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) in facilitating pediatric cancer treatment and alleviating symptomatology through positive changes in the patients’ emotional, mental, and even physical status. A major concern expressed by healthcare providers and parents in implementing AAIs in hospital settings is the transmission of disease from animals to patients. Immunocompromised children, such as pediatric cancer patients are at increased risk for pet-associated diseases. Furthermore, existing disparities among the racial and ethnic minority groups of pediatric cancer patients can potentially exacerbate their risk for zoonoses. This literature review highlights the most common human infections from therapy animals, connections to the race and ethnic background of pediatric oncology patients, as well as means of prevention. The discussion is limited to dogs, which are typically the most commonly used species in hospital-based animal-assisted therapy. The aim is to highlight specific preventive measures, precautions and recommendations that must be considered in hospitals’ protocols and best practices, particularly given the plethora of benefits provided by AAI for pediatric cancer patients, staff and families.
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Abu-Quider A, Asleh M. Ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in survival of children and adolescents with CNS tumors in Southern Israel. Neurooncol Pract 2022; 9:441-448. [DOI: 10.1093/nop/npac041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
This study sought to evaluate survival of pediatric and adolescent patients with central nervous system (CNS) cancer in southern Israel, outline disparities between ethnic and socioeconomic groups (Bedouin Arabs compared to Jews) and evaluate the role of socioeconomic status (SES) in ethnic disparities.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted among 91 patients aged one to 20 years, who were diagnosed with CNS tumors between 2001 and 2017, and followed-up through 2020. Ethnic differences in survival were measured by age, sex, stage, histology and SES. One and 3-year survival rates were calculated. Multivariable regression analysis was used to estimate adjusted ethnic differences in survival rates.
Results
Ethnic differences in survival existed within all studied variables. All Bedouin patients lived in low SES settlements (All Bedouin settlement in Southern Israel are ranked in lower socioeconomic deciles). Twenty-eight patients had medulloblastoma. Seven (25%) presented with leptomeningeal disease or distant metastases. Medulloblastoma molecular subgroups were not assessed for logistic reasons. Three-year overall survival of Bedouins was 50% compared to 92.3% for Jews. Adjusted risk of death at 3 years was significantly higher for Bedouin patients (aHR 3.36, 95% CI 1.41–7.98, P = .006).
Conclusions
We conclude that Bedouin children with CNS tumors have significantly lower survival rates compared to Jewish children, and SES seems to play a major part in these disparities. Factors influencing these disparities should be addressed and public health interventions to eliminate these disparities should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abed Abu-Quider
- Pediatric Hemato-Oncology Department, Saban Pediatric Medical Center, Soroka University Medical Center , Israel
| | - Mahdi Asleh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev , Beer-Sheva , Israel
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Tran YH, Coven SL, Park S, Mendonca EA. Social determinants of health and pediatric cancer survival: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29546. [PMID: 35107854 PMCID: PMC8957569 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Despite treatment advancements and improved survival, approximately 1800 children in the United States will die of cancer annually. Survival may depend on nonclinical factors, such as economic stability, neighborhood and built environment, health and health care, social and community context, and education, otherwise known as social determinants of health (SDoH). Extant literature reviews have linked socioeconomic status (SES) and race to disparate outcomes; however, these are not inclusive of all SDoH. Thus, we conducted a systematic review on associations between SDoH and survival in pediatric cancer patients. Of the 854 identified studies, 25 were included in this review. In addition to SES, poverty and insurance coverage were associated with survival. More studies that include other SDoH, such as social and community factors, utilize prospective designs, and conduct analyses with more precise SDoH measures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette H. Tran
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Indiana University Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA,Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Scott L. Coven
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA,Riley Children’s Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Seho Park
- Department Biostatistics and Health Data Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA,Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Eneida A. Mendonca
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA,Department Biostatistics and Health Data Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA,Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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10
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Hart M, Anderson-Mellies A, Beltrami A, Gilani A, Green AL. Population-based analysis of CNS tumor diagnoses, treatment, and survival in congenital and infant age groups. J Neurooncol 2022; 157:333-344. [PMID: 35175546 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-03967-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital (< 3 months) and infant (3 to 11 months) brain tumors are biologically different from tumors in older children, but their epidemiology has not been studied comprehensively. Insight into epidemiological differences could help tailor treatment recommendations by age and increase overall survival (OS). METHODS Population-based data from SEER were obtained for 14,493 0-19-year-olds diagnosed with CNS tumors 1990-2015. Congenital and infant age groups were compared to patients aged 1-19 years based on incidence, treatment, and survival using Chi-square and Kaplan-Meier analyses. Hazard ratios were estimated from univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards survival analyses. RESULTS Between the < 3-month, 3-5-month, 6-11 month, and 1-19-year age groups, tumor type distribution differed significantly (p < 0.001). 5-year OS for all tumors was 36.7% (< 3 months), 56.0% (< 3-5 months), 63.8% (6-11 months), and 74.7% (1-19 years) (p < 0.001). Comparing between age groups by tumor type, OS was worst for < 3-month-olds with low-grade glioma, medulloblastoma, and other embryonal tumors; OS was worst for 3-5-month-olds with ependymoma, < 1-year-olds collectively with atypical teratoid-rhabdoid tumor, and 1-19-year-olds with high-grade glioma (HGG) (log rank p < 0.02 for all tumor types). Under 3-month-olds were least likely to receive any treatment for each tumor type and least likely to undergo surgery for all except HGG. Under 1-year-olds were far less likely than 1-19-year-olds to undergo both radiation and chemotherapy for embryonal tumors. CONCLUSIONS Subtype distribution, treatment patterns, and prognosis of congenital/infant CNS tumors differ from those in older children. Better, more standardized treatment guidelines may improve poorer outcomes seen in these youngest patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muriel Hart
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Aurora, CO, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | | | - Alina Beltrami
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Aurora, CO, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Ahmed Gilani
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Adam L Green
- Morgan Adams Foundation Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program, Aurora, CO, USA. .,University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E. 19th Ave., Mail Stop 8302, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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Moore KJ, Moertel CL, Williams LA. Minority children experience a higher risk of death from many central nervous system tumor types even after accounting for treatment received: A National Cancer Database analysis. Cancer 2022; 128:1605-1615. [PMID: 35132615 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain tumors are the leading cause of death from disease in children. Racial/ethnic minority children have poorer outcomes than White children; however, it is not clear whether this association is mediated by treatment received. METHODS Children (aged 0-19 years) diagnosed with brain tumors in the National Cancer Database (2004-2016) were identified. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between race/ethnicity (Black, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, American Indian/Alaska Native, or White [reference]) and death. An inverse odds weighted mediation analysis was performed with treatment received as the mediator. RESULTS Among 22,469 cases, White children (69% of the sample) had significantly better overall 12.5-year survival (P < .01). Black children (13% of the sample) and Hispanic children (14% of the sample) had an increased risk of death overall and for glioblastoma and oligodendroglioma. Compared with Whites, Asian/Pacific Islander children had a higher risk of death from choroid plexus tumors and a lower risk of death from medulloblastoma. There were no statistically significant meditating effects by treatment received, although the estimate was borderline in Hispanic children (indirect HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.99-1.18). A treatment-independent association between race/ethnicity and death remained for Hispanic children (direct HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.04-1.33) and Black children (direct HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.13-1.45). If deaths in minorities had equaled those in White children, 5% fewer total deaths and 15% fewer minority deaths would have occurred. CONCLUSIONS Survival disparities exist in pediatric brain tumors and are largely independent of treatment received, but other mechanisms linked to race/ethnicity remain important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin J Moore
- Program in Health Disparities Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Christopher L Moertel
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Brain Tumor Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Lindsay A Williams
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Brain Tumor Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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12
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Beltrami A, Hilliard A, Green AL. Demographic and socioeconomic disparities in pediatric cancer in the United States: Current knowledge, deepening understanding, and expanding intervention. Cancer Epidemiol 2021; 76:102082. [PMID: 34923289 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2021.102082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
While survival of pediatric cancer has improved greatly over the past 40 years, demographic and socioeconomic disparities have meant that some groups have not benefitted as much from these advances. We conducted a rapid review to summarize literature on demographic and socioeconomic disparities in outcomes of childhood cancer, starting in 2000. We find that unequal outcomes have been noted for many of these groups across hematologic malignancies, central nervous system tumors, and other solid tumors, although occasional studies have noted absence of disparities for particular at-risk groups and diseases, and gaps in understanding of disparities for some cancer subtypes and groups still exist. These include disparities in duration of overall survival, risk of death, more extensive disease at presentation, and differences/delays in treatment. Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, lack of private insurance, and adolescent/young adult age are most often associated with these poorer outcomes. We then delve into documented and theorized causes of these disparities, including impaired access to care and clinical trials, differences in cancer biology, treatment non-adherence, language barriers, and implicit racial bias. Here, it is clear that socioeconomic factors account for a large proportion of disparities seen, although not all, and that the causes of disparities are complex and interconnected and still need to be better understood. Finally, in an effort to shift emphasis to addressing disparities, we review interventions against disparities that have been studied in childhood cancer patients and other populations, including improving clinical trial representation, communication, health literacy, and family navigation. We suggest ways forward in disparity mitigation toward a goal of achieving equitable cancer outcomes for all children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Beltrami
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Alexandra Hilliard
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Adam L Green
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States; Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States.
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13
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Bava L, Freyer DR, Radbill LM, Johns AL. Association of language proficiency, sociodemographics, and neurocognitive functioning in dual-language Latino survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29118. [PMID: 34019328 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma (ALL/LL) are at risk for cognitive dysfunction, but little is known about its relationship with language proficiency and sociodemographics. PROCEDURE In this cross-sectional cohort study of Latino survivors of childhood ALL/LL, English and Spanish language proficiency and cognitive and academic functioning were measured and their associations determined using paired t-tests, Pearson correlations, and linear regressions. RESULTS Participants (N = 57; 50.9% female) had mean ages (years ± SD) of 4.3 ± 2.6 at diagnosis and 10.6 ± 2.9 at testing (range 6-16); mean time post treatment was 3.7 ± 2.6 years. The majority (73.7%) had low socioeconomic status (SES). Most (78.8%) were dual-language learners in English and Spanish. English proficiency was graded as limited-to-fluent and was significantly higher than Spanish (p < .001). Higher SES was correlated with higher English proficiency (r = 0.31, p = .020). Males had higher Spanish proficiency (r = -0.32, p = .034). Controlling for SES and sex, English proficiency accounted for 43% of cognitive functioning variance (F = 14.86, p < .001), 55% of reading comprehension variance (F = 22.14, p < .001), and 21% of mathematics variance (F = 5.76, p = .002). CONCLUSIONS Low language proficiency correlated with SES but was independently associated with lower cognitive and academic functioning. Research and surveillance for neurocognitive late effects in Latino ALL/LL survivors should incorporate measures of language proficiency and SES to account for their effects on cognitive and academic functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bava
- Survivorship and Supportive Care Program, Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David R Freyer
- Survivorship and Supportive Care Program, 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
| | - Linda M Radbill
- Survivorship and Supportive Care Program, Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alexis L Johns
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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14
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Miller KD, Ostrom QT, Kruchko C, Patil N, Tihan T, Cioffi G, Fuchs HE, Waite KA, Jemal A, Siegel RL, Barnholtz-Sloan JS. Brain and other central nervous system tumor statistics, 2021. CA Cancer J Clin 2021; 71:381-406. [PMID: 34427324 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 114.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain and other central nervous system (CNS) tumors are among the most fatal cancers and account for substantial morbidity and mortality in the United States. Population-based data from the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (a combined data set of the National Program of Cancer Registries [NPCR] and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results [SEER] registries), NPCR, National Vital Statistics System and SEER program were analyzed to assess the contemporary burden of malignant and nonmalignant brain and other CNS tumors (hereafter brain) by histology, anatomic site, age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Malignant brain tumor incidence rates declined by 0.8% annually from 2008 to 2017 for all ages combined but increased 0.5% to 0.7% per year among children and adolescents. Malignant brain tumor incidence is highest in males and non-Hispanic White individuals, whereas the rates for nonmalignant tumors are highest in females and non-Hispanic Black individuals. Five-year relative survival for all malignant brain tumors combined increased between 1975 to 1977 and 2009 to 2015 from 23% to 36%, with larger gains among younger age groups. Less improvement among older age groups largely reflects a higher burden of glioblastoma, for which there have been few major advances in prevention, early detection, and treatment the past 4 decades. Specifically, 5-year glioblastoma survival only increased from 4% to 7% during the same time period. In addition, important survival disparities by race/ethnicity remain for childhood tumors, with the largest Black-White disparities for diffuse astrocytomas (75% vs 86% for patients diagnosed during 2009-2015) and embryonal tumors (59% vs 67%). Increased resources for the collection and reporting of timely consistent data are critical for advancing research to elucidate the causes of sex, age, and racial/ethnic differences in brain tumor occurrence, especially for rarer subtypes and among understudied populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly D Miller
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Quinn T Ostrom
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Carol Kruchko
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
| | - Nirav Patil
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
- University Hospitals, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Tarik Tihan
- Neuropathology Division, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Gino Cioffi
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
- Trans Divisional Research Program (TDRP), Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Hannah E Fuchs
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kristin A Waite
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
- Trans Divisional Research Program (TDRP), Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ahmedin Jemal
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Rebecca L Siegel
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jill S Barnholtz-Sloan
- Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States, Hinsdale, Illinois
- Trans Divisional Research Program (TDRP), Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Biomedical Informatics & Information Technology (CBIIT), National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
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15
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Puthenpura V, Canavan ME, Poynter JN, Roth M, Pashankar FD, Jones BA, Marks AM. Racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic survival disparities in adolescents and young adults with primary central nervous system tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28970. [PMID: 33704901 PMCID: PMC8221084 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in survival by race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), and geography in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with central nervous system (CNS) tumors have not been well studied. PROCEDURE A retrospective cohort study utilizing the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was conducted for AYA patients diagnosed with primary CNS tumors. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) were calculated using a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model to evaluate the association between race/ethnicity, SES, rurality, and hazard of death. RESULTS All minority groups showed an increased hazard of death with greatest disparities in the high-grade glioma cohort. Lower SES was associated with an increased hazard of death in non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients (aHR 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.24), non-Hispanic Black (NHB) patients (aHR 1.34; 95% CI 1.00-1.80), and patients aged 25-29 years (aHR 1.29; 95% CI 1.07-1.55). Mediation analysis showed an indirect effect of SES on the effect of race/ethnicity on the hazard of death only among NHB patients, with SES accounting for 33.7% of the association between NHB and hazard of death. Rurality was associated with an increased hazard of death for patients in the lowest SES tertile (aHR 1.31; 95% CI 1.08-1.59) and NHW patients (aHR 1.20; 95% CI 1.08-1.34). CONCLUSIONS Patients identified as a racial/ethnic minority, patients with a lower SES, and patients residing in rural areas had an increased hazard of death. Further studies are needed to understand and address the biological, psychosocial, societal, and economic factors that impact AYA neuro-oncology patients at highest risk of experiencing poorer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Puthenpura
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Maureen E Canavan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Outcomes and Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jenny N Poynter
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael Roth
- Department of Pediatrics Patient Care, Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Farzana D Pashankar
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Beth A Jones
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Asher M Marks
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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16
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Maternal and perinatal factors are associated with risk of pediatric central nervous system tumors and poorer survival after diagnosis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10410. [PMID: 34001927 PMCID: PMC8129132 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88385-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most common solid tumors in children. Findings on the role of maternal and perinatal factors on the susceptibility or outcome of these tumors are inconclusive. Therefore, we investigated the association between these early-life factors, risk, and survival of pediatric CNS tumors, using data from one of the world’s largest and most diverse cancer registries. Information on pediatric CNS tumor cases (n = 1950) for the period 1995–2011 was obtained from the Texas Cancer Registry. Birth certificate controls were frequency-matched on birth year at a ratio of 10:1 for the same period. Evaluated maternal and perinatal variables were obtained from birth records. Unconditional logistic regression was used to generate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for etiological factors. Additionally, Cox proportional hazards regression was employed to assess adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for survival factors. The results indicated that Hispanic and non-Hispanic black mothers were less likely to have children with CNS tumors compared to non-Hispanic white mothers (OR 0.88 [95% CI 0.78–0.98] P-value = 0.019; OR 0.79 [95% CI 0.67–0.93 P-value = 0.004], respectively). Infants born large for gestational age (OR 1.26 [95% CI 1.07–1.47] P-value = 0.004) and those delivered pre-term (OR 1.19 [95% CI 1.04–1.38] P-value = 0.013) showed an increased risk of CNS tumors. Infants born by vaginal forceps or vacuum delivery had a higher risk of CNS tumors compared to those born by spontaneous vaginal delivery (OR 1.35 [95% CI 1.12–1.62] P-value = 0.002). Additionally, offspring of Hispanic and non-Hispanic black mothers showed a higher risk of death (HR 1.45 [95% CI 1.16–1.80] P-value = 0.001; HR 1.53 [95% CI 1.12–2.09] P-value = 0.008, respectively). Infants born by cesarean had a higher risk of death compared to those delivered vaginally (HR 1.28 [95% CI 1.05–1.57] P-value = 0.016). These findings indicate the important role of maternal and perinatal characteristics in the etiology and survival of these clinically significant malignancies.
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17
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Hossain MJ, Xiao W, Tayeb M, Khan S. Epidemiology and prognostic factors of pediatric brain tumor survival in the US: Evidence from four decades of population data. Cancer Epidemiol 2021; 72:101942. [PMID: 33946020 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2021.101942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors, a group of heterogeneous diseases, are the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Insight into the prognosis of pediatric brain tumor survival has led to improved outcomes and could be further advanced through precision in prognosis. We analyzed the United States SEER population-based dataset of 15,723 pediatric brain tumor patients diagnosed and followed between 1975 and 2016 using a stratified Cox proportional hazards model. Mortality risk declined with increased age at diagnosis, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) (95 % confidence interval) was 0.60 (0.55, 0.67) and 0.47 (0.42, 0.52) for ages at diagnosis 1-10 years and 10-19 years, respectively, when compared with infants. Non-Hispanic Caucasian patients showed a lower risk of mortality than non-Hispanic African Americans (1.21 (1.11, 1.32)) and Hispanics (1.21 (1.11, 1.32)). Primary tumor sites, grades, and histology showed substantial heterogeneity in mortality risk. Brainstem (2.62 (2.41, 2.85)) and Cerebrum (1.63 (1.46, 1.81)) had an elevated risk of mortality than lobes. Similarly, Grade II (1.32 (1.07, 1.62)), Grade III (3.39 (2.74, 4.19)), and Grade IV (2.18 (1.80, 2.64)) showed an inflated risk of mortality than Grade I. Compared to low-grade glioma, high-grade glioma (7.92 (7.09, 8.85)), Primitive neuroectodermal tumors (4.72 (4.15, 5.37)), Medulloblastoma (3.11 (2.79, 3.47)), and Ependymal-tumors (2.20 (1.95, 2.48)) had increased risk of mortality. County-level poverty and geographic region showed substantial variation in survival. This large population-based comprehensive study confirmed identified prognostic factors of pediatric brain tumor survival and provided estimates as epidemiologic evidence with greater generalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jobayer Hossain
- Biostatistics Program, Biomedical Research, A. I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Nemours Children's Health System, Wilmington, DE, 19803, United States; Department of Applied Economics and Statistics, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, United States.
| | - Wendi Xiao
- Biostatistics Program, Biomedical Research, A. I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Nemours Children's Health System, Wilmington, DE, 19803, United States
| | - Maliha Tayeb
- Department of Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, United States
| | - Saira Khan
- Program of Epidemiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, 100 Discovery Blvd, Newark, DE, 19713, United States
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18
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Hess CB, Parkes J, Janssens GO, Lin C, Wong K, Zaghloul MS, Marconi DG, Boterberg T, Esiashvili N. Global pediatric radiation therapy in resource-limited settings. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68 Suppl 2:e28299. [PMID: 32743983 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This report provides a summary of the global burden of childhood cancer morbidity and mortality, which disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries as well as low- and middle-income communities within high-income countries. We review past successes and current challenges to improving clinical pediatric radiotherapy, education, and research in these regions. The Pediatric Radiation Oncology Society Taskforce in Low- and Middle-Income Countries recently outlined specific aims: (a) to increase access and quality of radiotherapy for children and adolescents afflicted with cancer; (b) to enumerate, engage, and educate a global community of providers of childhood and adolescent radiotherapy; and (c) to create evidence establishing the outcomes of setting-specific treatment standards of care when first-world standards are not achievable. This report will improve awareness of these disparities and promote attempts to correct them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton B Hess
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeannette Parkes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Geert O Janssens
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chi Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Kenneth Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mohamed S Zaghloul
- Children's Cancer Hospital, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Daniel G Marconi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Natia Esiashvili
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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19
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Morrison ZD, Reyes-Ferral C, Mansfield SA, Alemayehu H, Bowen-Jallow K, Tran S, Santos MC, Bischoff A, Perez N, Lopez ME, Langham MR, Newman EA. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A strategic priority for the American Pediatric Surgical Association. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:641-647. [PMID: 33309300 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hanna Alemayehu
- Children's and Women's Hospital, University of South Alabama Health System, Mobile, AL, USA
| | | | - Sifrance Tran
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Numa Perez
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Erika A Newman
- CS Mott Children's Hospital, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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20
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Racial and ethnic disparities among children with primary central nervous system tumors in the US. J Neurooncol 2021; 152:451-466. [PMID: 33774801 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03738-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors are among the most common and lethal types of cancer in children. However, the existence of health disparities in CNS tumors by race or ethnicity remains poorly understood. This systematic review sought to determine whether racial and ethnic disparities in incidence, healthcare access, and survival exist among pediatric patients diagnosed with CNS tumors. METHODS A search of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus was conducted. Inclusion criteria selected for studies published between January 1, 2005 and July 15, 2020 that focused on pediatric populations in the US, evaluated for potential differences based on racial or ethnic backgrounds, and focused on CNS tumors. A standardized study form was used to collect study information, population of interest, research design, and quality of analysis, sample size, participant demographics, pathology evaluated, and incidence or outcomes observed. RESULTS A total of 30 studies were inlcuded. Studies suggest White children may be more likely to be diagnosed with a CNS tumor and Hispanic children to present with advanced-stage disease and have worse outcomes. The degree of influence derived from socioeconomic factors is unclear. This review was limited by few available studies that included race and ethnicity as a variable, the overlap in databases used, and unclear categorization of race and ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS This review identified notable and at times contradicting variations in racial/ethnic disparities among children with CNS tumors, suggesting that the extent of these disparities remains largely unknown and prompts further research to improve health equity.
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21
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Adel Fahmideh M, Scheurer ME. Pediatric Brain Tumors: Descriptive Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Future Directions. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2021; 30:813-821. [PMID: 33653816 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-20-1443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children and remain a significant contributor to death by disease in this population. Pediatric brain tumors (PBT) are broadly classified into two major categories: glial and neuronal tumors. Various factors, including tumor histology, tumor location, and demographics, influence the incidence and prognosis of this heterogeneous group of neoplasms. Numerous epidemiologic studies have been conducted to identify genetic and environmental risk factors for these malignancies. Thus far, the only established risk factors for PBTs are exposure to ionizing radiation and some rare genetic syndromes. However, relatively consistent evidence of positive associations for birth defects, markers of fetal growth, advanced parental age, maternal dietary N-nitroso compounds, and exposure to pesticides have been reported. The genetic variants associated with susceptibility to PBTs were predominantly identified by a candidate-gene approach. The identified genetic variants belong to four main pathways, including xenobiotic detoxification, inflammation, DNA repair, and cell-cycle regulation. Conducting large and multi-institutional studies is warranted to systematically detect genetic and environmental risk factors for different histologic subtypes of PBTs. This, in turn, might lead to a better understanding of etiology of PBTs and eventually developing risk prediction models to prevent these clinically significate malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maral Adel Fahmideh
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. .,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Michael E Scheurer
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Texas Children's Cancer Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
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22
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Haizel-Cobbina J, Spector LG, Moertel C, Parsons HM. Racial and ethnic disparities in survival of children with brain and central nervous tumors in the United States. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28738. [PMID: 32970937 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite improvements in overall survival for pediatric cancers, treatment disparities remain for racial/ethnic minorities compared to non-Hispanic Whites; however, the impact of race on treatment outcomes for pediatric brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors in the United States is not well known. METHODS We included 8713 children aged 0-19 years with newly diagnosed primary brain and CNS tumors between 2000 and 2015 from the Census Tract-level SES and Rurality Database developed by Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. We used chi-square tests to assess differences in sociodemographic, cancer, and treatment characteristics by race/ethnicity and Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models to examine differences in 10-year survival, adjusting for these characteristics. RESULTS Among 8713 patients, 56.75% were non-Hispanic White, 9.59% non-Hispanic Black, 25.46% Hispanic, and 8.19% from "other" racial/ethnic groups. Median unadjusted survival for all pediatric brain tumors was 53 months, but varied significantly by race/ethnicity with a median survival of 62 months for non-Hispanic Whites, 41 months for non-Hispanic Blacks, and 40 months for Hispanic and other. Multivariable analyses demonstrated minority racial groups still had significantly higher hazard of death than non-Hispanic Whites; Hispanic (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.25 [1.18-1.31]); non-Hispanic Black (aHR 1.12 [1.04-1.21]); other (aHR 1.22 [1.12-1.32]). Results were consistent when stratified by tumor histology. CONCLUSION We identified disparities in survival among racial/ethnic minorities with pediatric brain and CNS tumors, with Hispanic patients having the highest risk of mortality. Eliminating these disparities requires commitment toward promoting heath equity and personalized cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Logan G Spector
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology and Clinical Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Christopher Moertel
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Helen M Parsons
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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23
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Siegel DA, Richardson LC, Henley SJ, Wilson RJ, Dowling NF, Weir HK, Tai EW, Buchanan Lunsford N. Pediatric cancer mortality and survival in the United States, 2001-2016. Cancer 2020; 126:4379-4389. [PMID: 32725630 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although pediatric cancer mortality and survival have improved in the United States over the past 40 years, differences exist by age, race/ethnicity, cancer site, and economic status. To assess progress, this study examined recent mortality and survival data for individuals younger than 20 years. METHODS Age-adjusted death rates were calculated with the National Vital Statistics System for 2002-2016. Annual percent changes (APCs) and average annual percent changes (AAPCs) were calculated with joinpoint regression. Five-year relative survival was calculated on the basis of National Program of Cancer Registries data for 2001-2015. Death rates and survival were estimated overall and by sex, 5-year age group, race/ethnicity, cancer type, and county-based economic markers. RESULTS Death rates decreased during 2002-2016 (AAPC, -1.5), with steeper declines during 2002-2009 (APC, -2.6), and then plateaued (APC, -0.4). Leukemia and brain cancer were the most common causes of death from pediatric cancer, and brain cancer surpassed leukemia in 2011. Death rates decreased for leukemia and lymphoma but were unchanged for brain, bone, and soft-tissue cancers. From 2001-2007 to 2008-2015, survival improved from 82.0% to 85.1%. Survival was highest in both periods among females, those aged 15 to 19 years, non-Hispanic Whites, and those in counties in the top 25% by economic status. Survival improved for leukemias, lymphomas, and brain cancers but plateaued for bone and soft-tissue cancers. CONCLUSIONS Although overall death rates have decreased and survival has increased, differences persist by sex, age, race/ethnicity, cancer type, and economic status. Improvements in pediatric cancer outcomes may depend on improving therapies, access to care, and supportive and long-term care.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Siegel
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lisa C Richardson
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - S Jane Henley
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Reda J Wilson
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nicole F Dowling
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hannah K Weir
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eric W Tai
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Natasha Buchanan Lunsford
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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24
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Erdmann F, Frederiksen LE, Bonaventure A, Mader L, Hasle H, Robison LL, Winther JF. Childhood cancer: Survival, treatment modalities, late effects and improvements over time. Cancer Epidemiol 2020; 71:101733. [PMID: 32461035 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2020.101733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Since the 1960s, paediatric oncologists have gradually become better organised in large study groups and participation in clinical trials is today considered as the standard of care, with most children with cancer in Europe and North America being enrolled on available treatment protocols. Chemotherapy is nowadays the main element of therapy, but irradiation is still required for some patients. With the advent of multimodality therapy and supportive care, five-year cancer survival exceeds 80 % in most European and North American countries today. The substantial improvements in survival led to a constantly growing population of childhood cancer survivors. Concerns regarding the risk of late effects of the intensive cancer treatment at a young age, together with increasing numbers of survivors, have directed attention towards survivorship research. Survivors of childhood cancer are at longstanding risk of various severe somatic and mental health conditions attributable to the cancer and its treatment, as well as adverse social and socioeconomic consequences, and diminished psychological well-being and quality of life. It is, however, important to stress that some survivors have no or very mild adverse health conditions. Nevertheless, joint efforts are warranted for the care and long-term follow-up of childhood cancer patients. With this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of improvements in survival and treatment modalities over time, as well as the related somatic and mental late effects, and social and socioeconomic difficulties that these children might encounter later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Erdmann
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Denmark; German Childhood Cancer Registry, Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany.
| | | | - Audrey Bonaventure
- Epidemiology of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, University of Paris, UMR 1153 INSERM, France
| | - Luzius Mader
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Denmark; Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Henrik Hasle
- Department of Paediatrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Leslie L Robison
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, United States
| | - Jeanette Falck Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University and University Hospital, Denmark
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25
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Mitchell HK, Morris M, Ellis L, Abrahão R, Bonaventure A. Racial/ethnic and socioeconomic survival disparities for children and adolescents with central nervous system tumours in the United States, 2000-2015. Cancer Epidemiol 2019; 64:101644. [PMID: 31783249 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2019.101644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Central nervous system (CNS) malignancy is the commonest cause of cancer death in children and adolescents (0-19 years) in high-income settings. There is limited data on survival inequalities by race/ethnicity and socioeconomic position (SEP), for young patients, we aim to analyse their influence on survival from childhood CNS tumour. METHODS 9577 children and adolescents diagnosed with primary malignant CNS tumours during 2000-2015, followed up until Dec 31 st, 2015, and reported to cancer registries (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results programme) were included in the analysis. Cox regression models estimated the hazard ratios for race/ethnicity, SEP, and individual insurance status, adjusting for sex, age, diagnostic period, and tumour type. Individual-level insurance status data were available from 2007. RESULTS 62.5 % children and adolescents were non-Hispanic White, 10.6 % were non-Hispanic Black and 26.9 % were Hispanic. Race/ethnicity was strongly associated with survival (p < 0.001), even after adjusting for SEP, with Black (HR = 1.39 [95 %CI 1.23-1.58]) and Hispanic children (HR = 1.40 [95 %CI 1.28-1.54]) having higher hazards of death than White children. This association remained after adjusting for insurance status. There was an apparent positive association between SEP and survival that was largely attenuated after adjustment for insurance status (p = 0.20). Survival was comparable between those privately and Medicaid-insured. CONCLUSIONS Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic children had lower survival than their White counterparts. This association, not fully explained by differences in SEP, tumour subtype or health insurance, could be related to racially/ethnically-driven barriers to optimal healthcare, warranting further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Mitchell
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK; Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA.
| | - Melanie Morris
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Libby Ellis
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Renata Abrahão
- Brazilian Cancer Foundation, R. dos Inválidos, 212 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20231-048, Brazil; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, 4610 X St, Sacramento, 95817, CA, USA
| | - Audrey Bonaventure
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK; Epidemiology and Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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