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Moon AM, Swier RM, Lane LM, Barritt AS, Sanoff HK, Olshan AF, Wheeler SB, Ioannou GN, Kim NJ, Hagan S, Vutien P, Benefield T, Henderson LM. Statewide Survey of Primary Care and Subspecialty Providers on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk-Stratification and Surveillance Practices. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:2437-2449. [PMID: 38652392 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-024-08442-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance in patients with cirrhosis is associated with improved survival. Provision of HCC surveillance is low in the US, particularly in primary care settings. AIMS To evaluate current hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HCC surveillance practices and physician attitudes regarding HCC risk-stratification among primary care and subspecialty providers. METHODS Using the Tailored Design Method, we delivered a 34-item online survey to 7654 North Carolina-licensed internal/family medicine or gastroenterology/hepatology physicians and advanced practice providers in 2022. We included the domains of HCV treatment, cirrhosis diagnosis, HCC surveillance practices, barriers to surveillance, and interest in risk-stratification tools. We performed descriptive analyses to summarize responses. Tabulations were weighted based on sampling weights accounting for non-response and inter-specialty comparisons were made using chi-squared or t test statistics. RESULTS After exclusions, 266 responses were included in the final sample (response rate 3.8%). Most respondents (78%) diagnosed cirrhosis using imaging and a minority used non-invasive tests that were blood-based (~ 15%) or transient elastography (31%). Compared to primary care providers, subspecialists were more likely to perform HCC surveillance every 6-months (vs annual) (98% vs 35%, p < 0.0001). Most respondents (80%) believed there were strong data to support HCC surveillance, but primary care providers did not know which liver disease patients needed surveillance. Most providers (> 70%) expressed interest in potential solutions to improve HCC risk-stratification. CONCLUSIONS In this statewide survey, there were great knowledge gaps in HCC surveillance among PCPs and most respondents expressed interest in strategies to increase appropriate HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Moon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- UNC Liver Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 8009 Burnett Womack Bldg, CB#7584, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7584, USA.
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Rachel M Swier
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lindsay M Lane
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A Sidney Barritt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC Liver Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 8009 Burnett Womack Bldg, CB#7584, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7584, USA
| | - Hanna K Sanoff
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew F Olshan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie B Wheeler
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - George N Ioannou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nicole J Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Scott Hagan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, USA
| | - Philip Vutien
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thad Benefield
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Louise M Henderson
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Feng GH, Yue QQ, Zhao KH, Peng T, Tang T, Sun YX, Meng XR, Huang LL, Zeng X, Zeng Y. Factors affecting the compliance of hepatocellular carcinoma screening among high-risk populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health Nurs 2024; 41:476-486. [PMID: 38468509 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer mortality. HCC has high morbidity, high mortality, and low survival rates. Screening is one of the most significant methods of lowering incidence and death while also increasing survival. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to identify the facilitators and barriers to participation in HCC screening among high-risk populations. METHODS A comprehensive and systematic search was undertaken in PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBACE, EBSCOhost and the Cochrane Library. A combination of synonyms of the keywords including HCC, screening, factors and adherence were used for searching. Studies addressing the facilitators and barriers to HCC screening compliance in at-risk individuals were included. Data were synthesized using Review Manager version 5.4. A random/fixed effects model meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled data and expressed with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS A total of seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Qualitative (n = 1) and quantitative (n = 6) studies using various types of surgery were conducted. The most commonly mentioned barriers were insufficient knowledge and awareness of HCC screening, unawareness of the necessity for early detection of HCC and lack of physician recommendation. A meta-analysis of seven studies showed that individuals with a family history of HCC increased screening uptake by nearly three times (OR: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.93, 3.75). Other most frequently reported facilitators include age, education level, and perceived risk et al. CONCLUSIONS Many barriers to HCC screening were found. Meanwhile, this review points out that improving the awareness of high-risk populations toward HCC screening is expected to enhance compliance, thereby promoting early diagnosis of liver cancer, reducing mortality, and alleviating the burden of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge-Hui Feng
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Qian-Qian Yue
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ke-Hao Zhao
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Tong Peng
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Tian Tang
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ying-Xue Sun
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xin-Ru Meng
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Li-Li Huang
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xi Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute; Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Department of International and Humanistic Nursing, Hunan Science Popularization Education Base, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular & Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute; Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Wong RJ, Jones PD, Niu B, Therapondos G, Thamer M, Kshirsagar O, Zhang Y, Pinheiro P, Kyalwazi B, Fass R, Khalili M, Singal AG. Clinician-Level Knowledge and Barriers to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2411076. [PMID: 38743424 PMCID: PMC11094557 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.11076] [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] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis is underused. Identifying potentially modifiable factors to address barriers in HCC surveillance is critical to improve patient outcomes. Objective To evaluate clinician-level factors contributing to underuse of HCC surveillance in patients with cirrhosis. Design, Setting, and Participants This survey study included primary care clinicians (PCCs) and gastroenterology and hepatology clinicians at 5 safety-net health systems in the US. Clinicians were surveyed from March 15 to September 15, 2023, to assess knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, perceived barriers, and COVID-19-related disruptions in HCC surveillance in patients with cirrhosis. Data were analyzed from October to November 2023. Main Outcome and Measures HCC surveillance knowledge was assessed with 6 questions querying the respondent's ability to correctly identify appropriate use of HCC surveillance. Attitudes, perceived barriers, and beliefs regarding HCC surveillance and perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic-related disruptions with HCC surveillance were assessed with a series of statements using a 4-point Likert scale and compared PCCs and gastroenterology and hepatology clinicians. Results Overall, 347 of 1362 clinicians responded to the survey (25.5% response rate), among whom 142 of 237 (59.9%) were PCCs, 48 of 237 (20.3%) gastroenterology and hepatology, 190 of 236 (80.5%) were doctors of medicine and doctors of osteopathic medicine, and 46 of 236 (19.5%) were advanced practice clinicians. On HCC knowledge assessment, 144 of 270 (53.3%) scored 5 or more of 6 questions correctly, 37 of 48 (77.1%) among gastroenterology and hepatology vs 65 of 142 (45.8%) among PCCs (P < .001). Those with higher HCC knowledge scores were less likely to report barriers to HCC surveillance. PCCs were more likely to report inadequate time to discuss HCC surveillance (37 of 139 [26.6%] vs 2 of 48 [4.2%]; P = .001), difficulty identifying patients with cirrhosis (82 of 141 [58.2%] vs 5 of 48 [10.4%]; P < .001), and were not up-to-date with HCC surveillance guidelines (87 of 139 [62.6%] vs 5 of 48 [10.4%]; P < .001) compared with gastroenterology and hepatology clinicians. While most acknowledged delays during the COVID-19 pandemic, 62 of 136 PCCs (45.6%) and 27 of 45 gastroenterology and hepatology clinicians (60.0%) reported that patients with cirrhosis could currently complete HCC surveillance without delays. Conclusions and Relevance In this survey study, important gaps in knowledge and perceived barriers to HCC surveillance were identified. Effective delivery of HCC education to PCCs and health system-level interventions must be pursued in parallel to address the complex barriers affecting suboptimal HCC surveillance in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine and Gastroenterology Section, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, California
| | - Patricia D. Jones
- Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, University of Miami School of Medicine and Jackson Memorial Health System, Miami, Florida
| | - Bolin Niu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, MetroHealth Hospital and Health System, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Mae Thamer
- Medical Technology and Practice Patterns Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Onkar Kshirsagar
- Medical Technology and Practice Patterns Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yi Zhang
- Medical Technology and Practice Patterns Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paulo Pinheiro
- Division of Epidemiology and Population Health Sciences, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Beverly Kyalwazi
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Ronnie Fass
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, MetroHealth Hospital and Health System, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Mandana Khalili
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco and Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health, Dallas
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4
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Beal EW, McNamara M, Owen M, McAlearney AS, Tsung A. Interventions to Improve Surveillance for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in High-Risk Patients: A Scoping Review. J Gastrointest Cancer 2024; 55:1-14. [PMID: 37328730 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-023-00944-1] [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] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is most often a sequela of chronic liver disease or chronic hepatitis B infection. Among high-risk patients, surveillance for HCC every 6 months is recommended by international guidelines. However, rates of HCC surveillance are suboptimal (11-64%). Barriers at the patient, provider, and healthcare delivery system levels have been identified. METHODS We performed a systemic scoping review to identify and characterize interventions to improve HCC surveillance that has previously been evaluated. Searches using key terms in PubMed and Embase were performed to identify studies examining interventions designed to improve the surveillance rate for HCC in patients with cirrhosis or chronic liver disease that were published in English between January 1990 and September 2021. RESULTS Included studies (14) had the following study designs: (1) randomized clinical trials (3, 21.4%), (2) quasi-experimental (2, 14.3%), (3) prospective cohort (6, 42.8%), and (4) retrospective cohort (3, 21.4%). Interventions included mailed outreach invitations, nursing outreach, patient education with or without printed materials, provider education, patient navigation, chronic disease management programs, nursing-led protocols for image ordering, automated reminders to physicians and nurses, web-based clinical management tools, HCC surveillance databases, provider compliance reports, radiology-led surveillance programs, subsidized HCC surveillance, and the use of oral medications. It was found that HCC surveillance rates increased after intervention implementation in all studies. CONCLUSION Despite improvements in HCC surveillance rates with intervention, compliance remained suboptimal. Further analysis of which interventions yield the greatest increases in HCC surveillance, design of multi-pronged strategies, and improved implementation are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza W Beal
- Departments of Surgery and Oncology, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4100 John R, Mailcode: HW04HO, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Molly McNamara
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Mackenzie Owen
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Ann Scheck McAlearney
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research (CATALYST), The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottsville, VA, 22908, USA
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Elderkin J, Al Hallak N, Azmi AS, Aoun H, Critchfield J, Tobon M, Beal EW. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Surveillance, Diagnosis, Evaluation and Management. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5118. [PMID: 37958294 PMCID: PMC10647678 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks fourth in cancer-related deaths worldwide. Semiannual surveillance of the disease for patients with cirrhosis or hepatitis B virus allows for early detection with more favorable outcomes. The current underuse of surveillance programs demonstrates the need for intervention at both the patient and provider level. Mail outreach along with navigation provision has proven to increase surveillance follow-up in patients, while provider-targeted electronic medical record reminders and compliance reports have increased provider awareness of HCC surveillance. Imaging is the primary mode of diagnosis in HCC with The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) being a widely accepted comprehensive system that standardizes the reporting and data collection for HCC. The management of HCC is complex and requires multidisciplinary team evaluation of each patient based on their preference, the state of the disease, and the available medical and surgical interventions. Staging systems are useful in determining the appropriate intervention for HCC. Early-stage HCC is best managed by curative treatment modalities, such as liver resection, transplant, or ablation. For intermediate stages of the disease, transarterial local regional therapies can be applied. Advanced stages of the disease are treated with systemic therapies, for which there have been recent advances with new drug combinations. Previously sorafenib was the mainstay systemic treatment, but the recent introduction of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab proves to have a greater impact on overall survival. Although there is a current lack of improved outcomes in Phase III trials, neoadjuvant therapies are a potential avenue for HCC management in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Elderkin
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
| | - Najeeb Al Hallak
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (N.A.H.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Asfar S. Azmi
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (N.A.H.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Hussein Aoun
- Department of Radiology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (H.A.); (J.C.)
| | - Jeffrey Critchfield
- Department of Radiology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (H.A.); (J.C.)
| | - Miguel Tobon
- Department of Surgery, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
| | - Eliza W. Beal
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (N.A.H.); (A.S.A.)
- Department of Surgery, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
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6
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Biglari N, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Mohammadian J, Mehdizadeh A, Abbasi K. ctDNA as a novel and promising approach for cancer diagnosis: a focus on hepatocellular carcinoma. EXCLI JOURNAL 2023; 22:752-780. [PMID: 37720239 PMCID: PMC10502204 DOI: 10.17179/excli2023-6277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and treat HCC patients promptly. As a novel discovery, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can be used to analyze the tumor type and the cancer location. Additionally, ctDNA assists the cancer stage determination, which enables medical professionals to provide patients with the most appropriate treatment. This review will discuss the HCC-related mutated genes diagnosed by ctDNA. In addition, we will introduce the different and the most appropriate ctDNA diagnosis approaches based on the facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Biglari
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Soltani-Zangbar
- Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamal Mohammadian
- School of Advanced Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Beal EW, Owen M, McNamara M, McAlearney AS, Tsung A. Patient-, Provider-, and System-Level Barriers to Surveillance for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in High-Risk Patients in the USA: a Scoping Review. J Gastrointest Cancer 2023; 54:332-356. [PMID: 35879510 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-022-00851-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatocellular carcinoma has a dismal prognosis, except in patients diagnosed early who are candidates for potentially curative therapies. Most HCC cases develop in patients with chronic liver disease. Therefore, expert society guidelines recommend surveillance every 6 months with ultrasound with or without serum alpha-fetoprotein for high-risk patients. However, fewer than 20% of patients in the USA undergo appropriate surveillance. METHODS A systematic scoping review was performed with the objective of identifying barriers to screening among high-risk patients in the USA including mapping key concepts in the relevant literature, identifying the main sources and types of evidence available, and identifying gaps in the literature. A total of 43 studies published from 2007 to 2021 were included. Data were extracted and a conceptual framework was created. RESULTS Assessment of quantitative studies revealed poor surveillance rates, often below 50%. Three categories of barriers to surveillance were identified: patient-level, provider-level, and system-level barriers. Prevalent patient-level barriers included financial constraints, lack of awareness of surveillance recommendations, and scheduling difficulties. Common provider-level barriers were lack of provider awareness of guidelines for surveillance, difficulty accessing specialty resources, and time constraints in the clinic. System-level barriers included fewer clinic visits and rural/safety-net settings. Proposed interventions include improved patient/provider education, patient navigators, increased community/academic collaboration, and EMR-based reminders. CONCLUSION Based on these findings, there is a crucial need to implement and evaluate proposed interventions to improve HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza W Beal
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research (CATALYST, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, AnalyticsColumbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Mackenzie Owen
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Molly McNamara
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Ann Scheck McAlearney
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research (CATALYST, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, AnalyticsColumbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Department of Family and Community Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Allan Tsung
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research (CATALYST, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, AnalyticsColumbus, OH, 43210, USA
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Comparable Overall Survival in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosed within and outside a Surveillance Programme: The Potential Impact of Liver Cirrhosis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030978. [PMID: 36765935 PMCID: PMC9913092 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer death, and its incidence is rising. Mortality from HCC is predicted to increase by 140% by 2035. Surveillance of high-risk patients with cirrhosis or chronic liver disease may be one means of reducing HCC mortality, but the level of supporting evidence for international guidelines is low/moderate. This study explores the real-world experience of HCC surveillance at a tertiary referral centre. Electronic patient records for all new HCCs diagnosed between August 2012 and December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient and tumour characteristics were evaluated, including the co-existence of chronic liver disease, cancer treatment and survival, and categorised according to HCC diagnosis within or outside a surveillance programme. Patients with HCC who presented through surveillance had smaller tumours diagnosed at an earlier stage, but this did not translate into improved overall survival. All patients in surveillance had chronic liver disease, including 91% (n = 101) with cirrhosis, compared to 45% (n = 29) in the non-surveillance cohort. We propose that the immune dysfunction associated with cirrhosis predisposes patients to a more aggressive tumour biology than the largely non-cirrhotic population in the non-surveillance group.
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9
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Significance of Identifying Key Genes Involved in HBV-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma for Primary Care Surveillance of Patients with Cirrhosis. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122331. [PMID: 36553600 PMCID: PMC9778294 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is frequently the final stage of disease preceding the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is one of the risk factors for HCC. Preventive surveillance for early HCC in patients with cirrhosis is advantageous for achieving early HCC prevention and diagnosis, thereby enhancing patient prognosis and reducing mortality. However, there is no highly sensitive diagnostic marker for the clinical surveillance of HCC in patients with cirrhosis, which significantly restricts its use in primary care for HCC. To increase the accuracy of illness diagnosis, the study of the effective and sensitive genetic biomarkers involved in HCC incidence is crucial. In this study, a set of 120 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was identified in the GSE121248 dataset. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed among the DEGs, and Cytoscape was used to extract hub genes from the network. In TCGA database, the expression levels, correlation analysis, and predictive performance of hub genes were validated. In total, 15 hub genes showed increased expression, and their positive correlation ranged from 0.80 to 0.90, suggesting they may be involved in the same signaling pathway governing HBV-related HCC. The GSE10143, GSE25097, GSE54236, and GSE17548 datasets were used to investigate the expression pattern of these hub genes in the progression from cirrhosis to HCC. Using Cox regression analysis, a prediction model was then developed. The ROC curves, DCA, and calibration analysis demonstrated the superior disease prediction accuracy of this model. In addition, using proteomic analysis, we investigated whether these key hub genes interact with the HBV-encoded oncogene X protein (HBx), the oncogenic protein in HCC. We constructed stable HBx-expressing LO2-HBx and Huh-7-HBx cell lines. Co-immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry (Co-IP/MS) results demonstrated that CDK1, RRM2, ANLN, and HMMR interacted specifically with HBx in both cell models. Importantly, we investigated 15 potential key genes (CCNB1, CDK1, BUB1B, ECT2, RACGAP1, ANLN, PBK, TOP2A, ASPM, RRM2, NEK2, PRC1, SPP1, HMMR, and DTL) participating in the transformation process of HBV infection to HCC, of which 4 hub genes (CDK1, RRM2, ANLN, and HMMR) probably serve as potential oncogenic HBx downstream target molecules. All these findings of our study provided valuable research direction for the diagnostic gene detection of HBV-related HCC in primary care surveillance for HCC in patients with cirrhosis.
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Nguyen MH, Roberts LR, Engel-Nitz NM, Bancroft T, Ozbay AB, Singal AG. Gaps in hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance in a United States cohort of insured patients with cirrhosis. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:2163-2173. [PMID: 36111416 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2124070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is known to be underutilized; however, neither the variation of surveillance adherence by cirrhosis etiology nor the patient-side economic burden of surveillance are well understood. To identify potential barriers to HCC surveillance, we assessed utilization patterns and costs among US patients with cirrhosis monitored in routine clinical practice. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of insured adult patients with cirrhosis using national administrative claims data from January 2013 through June 2019. Time up-to-date with recommended surveillance, correlates of surveillance receipt, and surveillance-associated costs were assessed during a ≥ 6-month follow-up. RESULTS Among 15,543 patients with cirrhosis (mean [SD] age 64.0 [11.1] years, 50.7% male), 45.8% and 58.7% had received any abdominal imaging at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Patients were up-to-date with recommended surveillance for only 31% of a median 1.3-year follow-up. Those with viral hepatitis were more likely to receive surveillance than those with other etiologies (hazard ratio [HR] 1.55, 95% CI 1.11-2.17, p = .010 for patients without a baseline gastroenterologist [GI] visit and 2.69, 95% CI 1.77-4.09, p < .001 for patients with a GI visit, relative to those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and no GI visit). For all etiologies except NAFLD, the HR (95% CI) for surveillance receipt was higher among patients with vs without a baseline GI visit (alcohol-related, 1.164 [1.002-1.351] vs 0.880 [0.796-0.972]; viral hepatitis, 2.688 [1.765-4.093] vs 1.553 [1.111-2.171]; Other, 0.612 [0.519-0.722] vs 0.549 [0.470-0.641]). Mean total and patient-paid daily surveillance-related costs ranged from $540 and $113, respectively (ultrasound) to $1580 and $300, respectively (magnetic resonance imaging), and mean estimated patient productivity costs were $730-$2514 annually. CONCLUSION HCC surveillance was underutilized and was lowest among patients with nonviral etiologies and those who had not seen a gastroenterologist. Surveillance-related out-of-pocket expenses and lost productivity were substantial. The development of surveillance strategies that reduce patient burden, such as those using blood-based biomarkers, may help improve surveillance adherence and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mindie H Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Amit G Singal
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- North American Liver Cancer Consortium
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11
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Wong RJ, Jayasekera C, Jones P, Kanwal F, Singal AG, Ahmed A, Taglienti R, Younossi Z, Kulik L, Mehta N. An Open-Access, Interactive Decision-Support Tool to Facilitate Guideline-Driven Care for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Gastroenterology Res 2022; 15:297-307. [PMID: 36660470 PMCID: PMC9822660 DOI: 10.14740/gr1573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing in incidence and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Adherence to HCC surveillance guidelines and appropriate treatment triage of liver lesions may improve receipt of curative-intent treatment and improved survival. Late-stage HCC diagnosis reflects sub-optimal implementation of effective HCC surveillance, whereas inappropriate treatment triage or linkage to care accounts for the non-receipt of curative-intent in close to half of early-stage HCC in the USA. A free, open-access decision-support tool for liver lesions that incorporates current guideline recommendations in a user-friendly interface could improve appropriate and timely triage of patients to appropriate care. This review provides a summary of gaps and disparities in linkage to HCC care and introduces a free, internet-based, interactive decision-support tool for managing liver lesions. This tool has been developed by the HCC Steering Committee of the Chronic Liver Disease Foundation and is targeted toward clinicians across specialties who may encounter liver lesions during routine care or as part of dedicated HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Wong
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA,Corresponding Author: Robert J. Wong, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
| | | | | | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amit G. Singal
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Neil Mehta
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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12
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Teerasarntipan T, Sritunyarat Y, Prathyajuta P, Pitakkitnukun P, Phathong C, Ariyaskul D, Kulkraisri K, Tangkijvanich P, Treeprasertsuk S, Rerknimitr R, Chaiteerakij R. Physician- and patient-reported barriers to hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance: A nationwide survey. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30538. [PMID: 36086710 PMCID: PMC10980473 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030538] [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: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance rates are suboptimal. We aimed to identify HCC surveillance barriers from both physician's and patient's perspectives and assess the effectiveness of physician education using social networks. A nationwide survey with 513 physicians and another single-center survey with 315 HCC-risk patients were conducted. Barriers to suboptimal surveillance were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. We educated 143 physicians by sending brief notes on HCC surveillance guidelines via social networks and re-evaluated their knowledge after 60 days using t test. Surveys showed 458 (86.3%), 254 (47.8%), and 225 (42.4%) physicians recommended surveillance in patients with cirrhosis, at-risk hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus infection, respectively. Only 228 (42.9%) and 241 (38.0%) respondents adhered to recommended surveillance tools and interval, respectively. The main surveillance barriers among physicians were the lack of knowledge and resource limitations. The lack of a doctor's prescription was identified as a major barrier by patient' perspectives (odds ratio 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1-1.8, P = .024). Education via social networks enhanced physicians' knowledge, with pre- and post-education scores for guideline awareness of 63.0% versus 84.3% (P < .001) and for surveillance indication and tools of 40.0% versus 63.0% (P = .001), and 42.0% versus 59.3% (P = .015), respectively. Physicians' knowledge gap is a primary barrier for adherence to HCC surveillance protocols. Brief education via social networks shows effectiveness at increasing physicians' knowledge of HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongluk Teerasarntipan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yingluk Sritunyarat
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Chonlada Phathong
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Pisit Tangkijvanich
- Liver Research Unit and Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sombat Treeprasertsuk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rungsun Rerknimitr
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Roongruedee Chaiteerakij
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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13
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Singal AG, Chen Y, Sridhar S, Mittal V, Fullington H, Shaik M, Waljee AK, Tiro J. Novel Application of Predictive Modeling: A Tailored Approach to Promoting HCC Surveillance in Patients With Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:1795-1802.e2. [PMID: 33662594 PMCID: PMC9048842 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There has been increased interest in interventions to promote hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance given low utilization and high proportions of late stage detection. Accurate prediction of patients likely versus unlikely to respond to interventions could allow a cost-effective approach to outreach and facilitate targeting more intensive interventions to likely non-responders. DESIGN We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial evaluating a mailed outreach strategy to promote HCC surveillance among 1200 cirrhosis patients at a safety-net health system between December 2014 and March 2017. We developed regularized logistic regression (RLR) and gradient boosting machine (GBM) algorithm models to predict surveillance completion during each of the 3 screening rounds in a training set (n = 960). Model performance was assessed using multiple performance metrics in an independent test set (n = 240). RESULTS Among 1200 patients, surveillance was completed in 41-47% of patients over the three rounds. The RLR and GBM models demonstrated good discriminatory accuracy, with area under receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves of 0.67 and 0.66 respectively in the first surveillance round and improved to 0.77 by the third surveillance round after incorporating prior screening behavior as a feature. Additional performance characteristics including the Brier score, Hosmer-Lemeshow test and reliability diagrams were also evaluated. The most important variables for the predictive model were prior screening completion status and past primary care contact. CONCLUSIONS Predictive models can help stratify patients' likelihood to respond to surveillance outreach invitations, facilitating tailored strategies to maximize effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of HCC surveillance population health programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas,Department of Population Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas,Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas
| | - Yixing Chen
- Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
| | - Shrihari Sridhar
- Mays Business School, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Vikas Mittal
- Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University, Houston, Texas
| | - Hannah Fullington
- Department of Population Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas
| | - Muzeeb Shaik
- Mays Business School, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Akbar K. Waljee
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan,VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan,Michigan Integrated Center for Health Analytics and Medical Prediction (MiCHAMP), Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jasmin Tiro
- Department of Population Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas,Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital, Dallas, Texas
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14
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Kubota N, Fujiwara N, Hoshida Y. Liver cancer risk-predictive molecular biomarkers specific to clinico-epidemiological contexts. Adv Cancer Res 2022; 156:1-37. [PMID: 35961696 PMCID: PMC7616039 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2022.01.005] [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: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk prediction is increasingly important because of the low annual HCC incidence in patients with the rapidly emerging non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or cured HCV infection. To date, numerous clinical HCC risk biomarkers and scores have been reported in literature. However, heterogeneity in clinico-epidemiological context, e.g., liver disease etiology, patient race/ethnicity, regional environmental exposure, and lifestyle-related factors, obscure their real clinical utility and applicability. Proper characterization of these factors will help refine HCC risk prediction according to certain clinical context/scenarios and contribute to improved early HCC detection. Molecular factors underlying the clinical heterogeneity encompass various features in host genetics, hepatic and systemic molecular dysregulations, and cross-organ interactions, which may serve as clinical-context-specific biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets. Toward the goal to enable individual-risk-based HCC screening by incorporating the HCC risk biomarkers/scores, their assessment in patient with well-defined clinical context/scenario is critical to gauge their real value and to maximize benefit of the tailored patient management for substantial improvement of the poor HCC prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Kubota
- Liver Tumor Translational Research Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Naoto Fujiwara
- Liver Tumor Translational Research Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States; Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Liver Tumor Translational Research Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
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15
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Provider Attitudes Toward Risk-Based Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance in Patients With Cirrhosis in the United States. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:183-193. [PMID: 32927050 PMCID: PMC8657369 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance rates are suboptimal in clinical practice. We aimed to elicit providers' opinions on the following aspects of HCC surveillance: preferred strategies, barriers and facilitators, and the impact of a patient's HCC risk on the choice of surveillance modality. METHODS We conducted a web-based survey among gastroenterology and hepatology providers (40% faculty physicians, 21% advanced practice providers, 39% fellow-trainees) from 26 US medical centers in 17 states. RESULTS Of 654 eligible providers, 305 (47%) completed the survey. Nearly all (98.4%) of the providers endorsed semi-annual HCC surveillance in patients with cirrhosis, with 84.2% recommending ultrasound ± alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and 15.4% recommending computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Barriers to surveillance included limited HCC treatment options, screening test effectiveness to reduce mortality, access to transportation, and high out-of-pocket costs. Facilitators of surveillance included professional society guidelines. Most providers (72.1%) would perform surveillance even if HCC risk was low (≤0.5% per year), while 98.7% would perform surveillance if HCC risk was ≥1% per year. As a patient's HCC risk increased from 1% to 3% to 5% per year, providers reported they would be less likely to order ultrasound ± AFP (83.6% to 68.9% to 57.4%; P < .001) and more likely to order CT or MRI ± AFP (3.9% to 26.2% to 36.1%; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Providers recommend HCC surveillance even when HCC risk is much lower than the threshold suggested by professional societies. Many appear receptive to risk-based HCC surveillance strategies that depend on patients' estimated HCC risk, instead of our current "one-size-fits all" strategy.
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16
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Del Poggio P, Mazzoleni M, Lazzaroni S, D'Alessio A. Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma at the community level: Easier said than done. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:6180-6190. [PMID: 34712026 PMCID: PMC8515795 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i37.6180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high-risk patients with semiannual ultrasound examinations is advocated by all international guidelines. However, as long as the identification of the population to be screened and the surveillance programs are not well implemented, the real-life impact of HCC surveillance in reducing mortality for HCC cannot be known. We propose a new approach that promotes the identification of cirrhotic patients by primary care physicians (PCPs) and referral of patients to the hepatologist for surveillance. Surveillance should be incorporated, when feasible, in a hub and spoke model of comprehensive hepatology care. Training PCPs to identify cirrhotic patients and performing surveillance in a subspecialist setting are equally important to improve the effectiveness of real-life surveillance and to decrease HCC mortality over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Del Poggio
- Unità di Epatologia, Policlinico San Marco Zingonia GSD University and Research Hospital Unità Epatologia, Osio Sotto 24040, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marzio Mazzoleni
- Primary Care Physician, ASST Bergamo, Osio Sotto 24040, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Sergio Lazzaroni
- Unità di Epatologia, Policlinico San Marco Zingonia GSD University and Research Hospital Unità Epatologia, Osio Sotto 24040, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Andrea D'Alessio
- Department of Medicine, Policlinico San Marco Zingonia, GSD University and Research Hospital, Osio Sotto 24040, Bergamo, Italy
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17
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Choi DT, Davila JA, Sansgiry S, David E, Singh H, El-Serag HB, Sada YHF. Factors Associated With Delay of Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:1679-1687. [PMID: 32693047 PMCID: PMC7855025 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We examined the frequency of and factors associated with delays in diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a cohort of patients with cirrhosis in the Veterans Health Administration. METHODS In a retrospective study, we collected and analyzed data from the Veterans Health Administration's electronic health records. We used a multivariate logistic regression model to identify factors associated with a delay in diagnosis of HCC of more than 60 days following a red flag (defined as the earliest date at which a diagnosis of HCC could have been made, based on American Association for the Study of Liver Disease 2005 guidelines). We used multivariate Cox proportional hazards model to evaluate the effects of delayed diagnosis on survival, adjusting for patient and provider characteristics. RESULTS Among 655 patients with cirrhosis and a diagnosis of HCC from 2006 through 2011, 46.9% had a delay in diagnosis of more than 60 days following a red flag for HCC. Delays in diagnosis for more than 60 days were significantly associated with lack of provider adherence to the guidelines (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 4.82; 95% CI, 3.12-7.45), a diagnostic imaging evaluation instead of only measurement of alfa fetoprotein (adjusted OR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.09-6.24), and diagnosis as an incidental finding during examination for an unrelated medical problem (compared with an HCC-related assessment) (adjusted OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.09-4.67). Diagnostic delays of 60 days or more were associated with lower mortality compared to patients without a delay in diagnosis (unadjusted hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.47-0.68 and adjusted hazard ratio, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50-0.78). CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of veterans with cirrhosis have delays in diagnosis of HCC of 60 days or more after a red flag, defined by guidelines. Interventions are needed to improve timely follow-up of red flags for HCC and adherence to guidelines, to increase early detection of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra T. Choi
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jessica A. Davila
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Shubhada Sansgiry
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Veterans Affairs South Central Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Houston, TX,Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Eric David
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hardeep Singh
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Hashem B. El-Serag
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX,Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Yvonne Hsiao-Fan Sada
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX,Section of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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18
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Sachar Y, Brahmania M, Dhanasekaran R, Congly SE. Screening for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Hepatitis B. Viruses 2021; 13:1318. [PMID: 34372524 PMCID: PMC8310362 DOI: 10.3390/v13071318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection is a significant risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As HCC is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, screening patients with CHB at a high risk for HCC is recommended in an attempt to improve these outcomes. However, the screening recommendations on who to screen and how often are not uniform. Identifying patients at the highest risk of HCC would allow for the best use of health resources. In this review, we evaluate the literature on screening patients with CHB for HCC, strategies for optimizing adherence to screening, and potential risk stratification tools to identify patients with CHB at a high risk of developing HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashasavi Sachar
- London Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada; (Y.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Mayur Brahmania
- London Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada; (Y.S.); (M.B.)
- Centre for Quality, Innovation and Safety, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Renumathy Dhanasekaran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| | - Stephen E. Congly
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
- O’Brien Institute of Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
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19
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Rao A, Rich NE, Marrero JA, Yopp AC, Singal AG. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Delays in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2021; 19:1063-1071. [PMID: 34077908 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2020.7689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delays in diagnosis and treatment have been reported for many cancers, with resultant stage migration and worse survival; however, few data exist in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These data are of particular importance in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused disruptions in healthcare processes and may continue to impact cancer care for the foreseeable future. The aim of our study was to characterize the prevalence and clinical significance of diagnostic and treatment delays in patients with HCC. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients diagnosed with HCC between January 2008 and July 2017 at 2 US health systems. Diagnostic and treatment delays were defined as >90 days between presentation and HCC diagnosis and between diagnosis and treatment, respectively. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with diagnostic and treatment delays and Cox proportional hazard models to identify correlates of overall survival. RESULTS Of 925 patients with HCC, 39.0% were diagnosed via screening, 33.1% incidentally, and 27.9% symptomatically. Median time from presentation to diagnosis was 37 days (interquartile range, 18-94 days), with 120 patients (13.0%) experiencing diagnostic delays. Median time from HCC diagnosis to treatment was 46 days (interquartile range, 29-74 days), with 17.2% of patients experiencing treatment delays. Most (72.5%) diagnostic delays were related to provider-level factors (eg, monitoring indeterminate nodules), whereas nearly half (46.2%) of treatment delays were related to patient-related factors (eg, missed appointments). In multivariable analyses, treatment delays were not associated with increased mortality (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.60-1.35); these results were consistent across subgroup analyses by Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage and treatment modality. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic and therapeutic delays exceeding 3 months are common in patients with HCC; however, observed treatment delays do not seem to significantly impact overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole E Rich
- 1Department of Internal Medicine.,2Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Jorge A Marrero
- 1Department of Internal Medicine.,3Department of Population and Data Sciences, and
| | - Adam C Yopp
- 2Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center.,4Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, Texas
| | - Amit G Singal
- 1Department of Internal Medicine.,2Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center.,3Department of Population and Data Sciences, and
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20
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Vo Quang E, Shimakawa Y, Nahon P. Epidemiological projections of viral-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in the perspective of WHO global hepatitis elimination. Liver Int 2021; 41:915-927. [PMID: 33641230 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B is an eminent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, whereas hepatitis C is a key risk factor for HCC in Western Europe and North America. Increased awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis resulted, in May 2016, in the adoption of the first global health sector strategy on viral hepatitis by the World Health Assembly, which calls for the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. Although the incidence of liver cancer resulting from viral infections has increased since the 1990s, the implementation of public health interventions, such as hepatitis B vaccination and antiviral therapies might have reduced the global burdens of HCC. Hepatitis B immunization in infancy has been associated with a reduction in the risk of infant fulminant hepatitis, chronic liver disease, and HCC in Taiwan. Achieving viral hepatitis elimination by 2030 can be accelerated by improving the access to HCC screening programs. HCC surveillance programs in developed countries must be refined to increase an access to personalized surveillance program, whereas the limited access to surveillance and treatment of HCC in developing countries remains a significant public health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwan Vo Quang
- Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,AP-HP, Hôpital Avicenne, Service d'Hépatologie, Bobigny, France.,Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Saint-Denis, France.,Inserm, UMR-1162, Génomique fonctionnelle des tumeurs solides, Paris, France
| | - Yusuke Shimakawa
- Unité d'Epidémiologie des Maladies Emergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Nahon
- AP-HP, Hôpital Avicenne, Service d'Hépatologie, Bobigny, France.,Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Saint-Denis, France.,Inserm, UMR-1162, Génomique fonctionnelle des tumeurs solides, Paris, France
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21
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Wolf E, Rich NE, Marrero JA, Parikh ND, Singal AG. Use of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Hepatology 2021; 73:713-725. [PMID: 32383272 PMCID: PMC7648722 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance is associated with early tumor detection and improved survival; however, it is often underused in clinical practice. We aimed to characterize surveillance use among patients with cirrhosis and the efficacy of interventions to increase surveillance. APPROACH AND RESULTS We performed a systematic literature review using the MEDLINE database from January 2010 through August 2018 to identify cohort studies evaluating HCC surveillance receipt or interventions to increase surveillance in patients with cirrhosis. A pooled estimate for surveillance receipt with 95% confidence intervals was calculated. Correlates of surveillance use were defined from each study and prespecified subgroup analyses. Twenty-nine studies, with a total of 118,799 patients, met inclusion criteria, with a pooled estimate for surveillance use of 24.0% (95% confidence interval, 18.4-30.1). In subgroup analyses, the highest surveillance receipt was reported in studies with patients enrolled from subspecialty gastroenterology/hepatology clinics and lowest in studies characterizing surveillance in population-based cohorts (73.7% versus 8.8%, P < 0.001). Commonly reported correlates of surveillance included higher receipt among patients followed by subspecialists and lower receipt among those with alcohol-associated or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-related cirrhosis. All eight studies (n = 5,229) evaluating interventions including patient/provider education, inreach (e.g., reminder and recall systems), and population health outreach strategies reported significant increases (range 9.4%-63.6%) in surveillance receipt. CONCLUSIONS HCC surveillance remains underused in clinical practice, particularly among patients with alcohol-associated or NASH-related cirrhosis and those not followed in subspecialty gastroenterology clinics. Interventions such as provider education, inreach including reminder systems, and population health outreach efforts can significantly increase HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Wolf
- Department of Internal MedicineUT Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Nicole E Rich
- Department of Internal MedicineUT Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Jorge A Marrero
- Department of Internal MedicineUT Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Neehar D Parikh
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal MedicineUT Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
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22
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Does Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Increase Survival in At-Risk Populations? Patient Selection, Biomarkers, and Barriers. Dig Dis Sci 2020; 65:3456-3462. [PMID: 32860090 PMCID: PMC7669568 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06550-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly morbid and prevalent cancer globally. While high quality evidence for mortality benefit of HCC surveillance is lacking, early detection of HCC is likely beneficial as prognosis is highly correlated with tumor stage. High risk populations, including patients with cirrhosis and subgroups with Hepatitis B, should undergo surveillance with ultrasound ± alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) at 6-month intervals. In addition, emerging data suggest that patients with Hepatitis C cirrhosis who achieve sustained virologic response should continue surveillance. Further research is needed to determine the value of surveillance in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the absence of cirrhosis or with advanced fibrosis of other etiologies. Newer biomarkers and models such as Lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP, des-γ-carboxy prothrombin, and the GALAD score are increasingly utilized in the diagnosis and prognostication of HCC. The role of these biomarkers in surveillance is still under investigation but may potentially offer a more practical alternative to traditional image-based surveillance. Despite recommendations from multiple professional society guidelines, many at-risk patients do not receive HCC surveillance due to barriers at the patient, clinician, and health care system levels. Strategies such as implementing patient navigation services, educating clinicians about surveillance guidelines, and creating automated outreach systems, may improve surveillance rates and ultimately reduce morbidity and mortality from HCC.
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23
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Understanding Gaps in the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cascade of Care: Opportunities to Improve Hepatocellular Carcinoma Outcomes. J Clin Gastroenterol 2020; 54:850-856. [PMID: 33030855 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Existing studies have highlighted significant disparities in HCC outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations, including ethnic minorities, safety-net populations, underinsured patients, and those with low socioeconomic status and high risk behaviors. The majority of these studies have focused on HCC surveillance. Although HCC surveillance is one of the most important first steps in HCC monitoring and management, it is only one step in the complex HCC cascade of care that evolves from surveillance to diagnosis and tumor staging that leads to access to HCC therapies. In this current review, we explore the disparities that exist along this complex HCC cascade of care and further highlight potential interventions that have been implemented to improve HCC outcomes. These interventions focus on patient, provider, and system level factors and provide a potential framework for health systems to implement quality improvement initiatives to improve HCC monitoring and management.
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24
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Luu S, Hsu C, Silberfein EJ. Demographic and Clinicopathologic Factors of Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Safety Net Hospital. J Surg Res 2020; 256:374-380. [PMID: 32739621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2020.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safety net hospitals have historically cared for a disproportionate number of patients of low socioeconomic status, racial and ethnic minorities, and patients with cancer. These innate challenges make safety net hospitals important in understanding how to improve access to cancer care in order to fit the needs of vulnerable patients and ultimately improve their outcomes. The purpose of this study is to characterize the current state and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at Ben Taub Hospital, a safety net hospital in Houston, Texas. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed to review the demographic characteristics, clinicopathologic data, treatment strategies, and outcomes of HCC patients at Ben Taub Hospital between January 2012 and December 2014. RESULTS Two-hundred twenty-six men and 78 women with a mean age of 58 y underwent evaluation. Most (87%) were either uninsured or covered by Medicaid. The majority (69%) of patients presented with advanced (stage 2 or more) disease, with 58% of patients presenting with multiple lesions. Of the 40% that presented with a solitary lesion, the average size was 4.97 cm. Transarterial chemoembolization was used in 37% of patients and sorafenib was given to 26% of patients. Five patients underwent successful transplant. One hundred seventeen (38%) patients died of their disease, 25 patients are alive with no evidence of disease, and 159 patients have been lost to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Most patients with HCC presented to this safety net hospital with advanced disease; however, multiple local and systemic treatments were offered. Screening programs to detect HCC at an earlier stage are essential for successful long-term outcomes in a resource-strapped hospital with limited access to liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sommer Luu
- Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Cary Hsu
- Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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25
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Onyirioha K, Mittal S, G Singal A. Is hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance in high-risk populations effective? Hepat Oncol 2020; 7:HEP25. [PMID: 32774835 PMCID: PMC7399579 DOI: 10.2217/hep-2020-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Several professional societies recommend hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance in high-risk patients including patients with cirrhosis from any etiology and subsets of noncirrhotic chronic hepatitis B virus infection. The efficacy of HCC surveillance to increase early detection and improve survival has been demonstrated in a large randomized controlled trial among hepatitis B virus patients and several cohort studies among those with cirrhosis. However, the effectiveness on HCC surveillance, when applied in clinical practice, is lower due to low utilization of HCC surveillance among at-risk patients, poorer test performance given operator dependency and differences in patient characteristics, and downstream process failures such as treatment delays. Interventions to increase surveillance utilization and improve surveillance test performance should improve surveillance effectiveness in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristeen Onyirioha
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Sukul Mittal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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26
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Ispas S, So S, Toy M. Barriers to Disease Monitoring and Liver Cancer Surveillance Among Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B in the United States. J Community Health 2020; 44:610-625. [PMID: 30539329 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-018-00604-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) is a condition that needs ongoing care such as monitoring for liver enzymes (ALT) and HBV DNA tests in treated and untreated patients, and annual imaging evaluation for liver cancer. Although follow-up care and treatment might seem straight forward, an estimated two-thirds of those who are aware of their infection are not seeing a health care provider, and more than half of those who are eligible for treatment do not receive it. This study aimed to compile and examine studies related to the barriers of disease monitoring, treatment, and liver cancer surveillance for CHB patients in the United States (US). A total of 4439 studies on monitoring and surveillance of CHB published between 2007 and 2018 were identified through a search of electronic databases. After critical assessment, the authors included 42 studies, divided into categories: 'patient-related barriers'; 'provider-related barriers'; and 'system-related barriers'. Among the patient-related barriers, one of the most frequent factors invoked in failing to have adequate surveillance was lack of patient's knowledge. In the provider-related barrier category, a lack of disease knowledge and adherence to guidelines was frequently reported. For the system-related barrier category, the only recurrent mention was a lack of clarity in guidelines or lack of guidelines from certain national institutions. This review summarizes and highlights the need for long-term disease management improvement of chronic hepatitis B infection for patients and healthcare providers that care for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Ispas
- Asian Liver Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 780 Welch Road, CJ 130, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-5787, USA
| | - Samuel So
- Asian Liver Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 780 Welch Road, CJ 130, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-5787, USA
| | - Mehlika Toy
- Asian Liver Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 780 Welch Road, CJ 130, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-5787, USA.
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27
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Screening for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in HIV-Infected Patients: Current Evidence and Controversies. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:6-17. [PMID: 31933273 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-019-00475-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to summarize evidence regarding hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening in the specific context of HIV infection and discuss areas of uncertainty. RECENT FINDINGS It has not been definitely established if HCC incidence in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients with cirrhosis is above the 1.5%/year threshold that makes screening cost-effective. Outside cirrhosis or HBV infection, available data do not support surveillance. The performance of currently recommended ultrasound (US) screening strategy is poor in HIV-infected patients, as rates of early-stage HCC detection are low. Magnetic resonance imaging-based surveillance strategies or liquid biopsy are innovative approaches that should be specifically tested in this setting. HIV-infected patients with cirrhosis are at risk of HCC. US surveillance identifies patients with early-stage HCC who will benefit of curative therapies, although the quality of the evidence supporting screening remains limited. The HIV population should be a priority group to assess and validate new surveillance strategies.
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28
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Abara WE, Spradling P, Zhong Y, Moorman A, Teshale EH, Rupp L, Gordon SC, Schmidt M, Boscarino JA, Daida YG, Holmberg SD. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance in a Cohort of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Patients with Cirrhosis. J Gastrointest Cancer 2020; 51:461-468. [PMID: 31124041 PMCID: PMC6874701 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-019-00255-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Six-monthly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening in cirrhotic patients has been recommended since 2011. HCC prognosis is associated with diagnosis at an early stage. We examined the prevalence and correlates of 6-monthly HCC surveillance in a cohort of HCV-infected cirrhotic patients. METHODS Data were obtained from the medical records of patients receiving care from four hospitals between January 2011 and December 2016. Frequencies and logistic regression were conducted. RESULTS Of 2,933 HCV-infected cirrhotic patients, most were ≥ 60 years old (68.5%), male (62.2%), White (65.8%), and had compensated cirrhosis (74.2%). The median follow-up period was 3.5 years. Among these patients, 10.9% were consistently screened 6 monthly and 21.4% were never screened. Patients with a longer history of cirrhosis (AOR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.80-0.93) were less likely to be screened 6 monthly while decompensated cirrhotic patients (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.06-1.81) and cirrhotic patients between 18 and 44 years (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.07-3.74) were more likely to be screened 6 monthly compared to compensated cirrhotic patients and patients 60 years and older respectively. There were no significant differences by race, gender, or insurance type. CONCLUSION The prevalence of consistent HCC surveillance remains low despite formalized recommendations. One in five patients was never surveilled. Patients with a longer history of cirrhosis were less likely to be surveilled consistently despite their greater HCC risk. Improving providers' knowledge about current HCC surveillance guidelines, educating patients about the benefits of consistent HCC surveillance, and systemic interventions like clinical reminders and standing HCC surveillance protocols can improve guideline-concordant surveillance in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston E Abara
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA.
| | - P Spradling
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Y Zhong
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - A Moorman
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - E H Teshale
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - L Rupp
- Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - M Schmidt
- Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Y G Daida
- Kaiser Permanente, Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - S D Holmberg
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop G-37, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
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29
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Scaglione S, Adams W, Caines A, Devlin P, Mittal S, Singal AG, Parikh ND. Association Between Race/Ethnicity and Insurance Status with Outcomes in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Dig Dis Sci 2020; 65:1669-1678. [PMID: 31643036 PMCID: PMC7603399 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-019-05890-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial/ethnic disparities in prognosis have been reported in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, few studies have evaluated racial/ethnic disparities in the context of insurance status. AIMS Characterize racial/ethnic and insurance status in early tumor detection, receipt of curative therapy and overall survival in a multicenter diverse cohort of HCC patients from the USA. STUDY We included patients with HCC diagnosed between June 2012 and May 2013 at four centers in the USA. Generalized linear mixed effects models were used to compare early tumor detection (defined using Milan Criteria) and curative treatment receipt (liver transplantation, surgical resection, or local ablation) as a function of patient race/ethnicity and insurance status. A multivariable frailty survival model was used to compare risk of death between patient groups. RESULTS Of 379 HCC patients (52.8% non-Hispanic White, 19.5% Hispanic White, 19.8% Black), 46.4% and 48.0% were found at an early stage and underwent curative therapy, respectively, and median overall survival of the cohort was 25.7 months. Early detection of HCC was associated with gastroenterology subspecialty care and receipt of HCC surveillance but not race/ethnicity or insurance status in adjusted models. However, commercial insurance was significantly associated with higher odds of curative treatment receipt, which in turn was the strongest correlate for overall survival. After adjusting for health system and insurance status, race/ethnicity was not associated with curative treatment receipt or overall survival. CONCLUSIONS Insurance status and access to gastroenterology subspecialty care may be important drivers of racial/ethnic disparities in prognosis among HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Scaglione
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, 2160 S, 1st Avenue, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA.
| | - William Adams
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Allyce Caines
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, 2160 S, 1st Avenue, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
| | - Pauline Devlin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sahil Mittal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, TX, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Neehar D Parikh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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30
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Aby ES, Winters AC, Lin J, Bui A, Kawamoto J, Goetz MB, Bhattacharya D, Pisegna JR, May FP, Patel AA, Benhammou JN. A Telephone and Mail Outreach Program Successfully Increases Uptake of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:825-833. [PMID: 32490319 PMCID: PMC7262281 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Society guidelines recommend surveillance with abdominal ultrasound with or without serum alpha‐fetoprotein every 6 months for adults at increased risk of developing HCC. However, adherence is often suboptimal. We assessed the feasibility of a coordinated telephone outreach program for unscreened patients with cirrhosis within the Veteran’s Affairs (VA) health care system. Using a patient care dashboard of advanced chronic liver disease in the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, we identified veterans with a diagnosis of cirrhosis, a platelet count ≤ 150,000/uL, and no documented HCC surveillance in the previous 8 months. Eligible veterans received a telephone call from a patient navigator to describe the risks and benefits of HCC surveillance. Orders for an abdominal ultrasound and alpha‐fetoprotein were placed for veterans who agreed to surveillance. Veterans who were not reached by telephone received an informational letter by mail to encourage participation. Of the 129 veterans who met the eligibility criteria, most were male (96.9%). The most common etiology for cirrhosis was hepatitis C (64.3%), and most of the patients had compensated cirrhosis (68.2%). The patient navigators reached 32.5% of patients by phone. Patients in each group were similar across clinical and demographic characteristics. Patients who were called were more likely to undergo surveillance (adjusted odds ratio = 2.56, 95% confidence interval: 1.03‐6.33). Most of the patients (72.1%) completed abdominal imaging when reached by phone. Conclusion: Targeted outreach increased uptake of HCC surveillance among patients with cirrhosis in a large, integrated, VA health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Aby
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Adam C Winters
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Jonathan Lin
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Aileen Bui
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Jenna Kawamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA
| | - Matthew B Goetz
- Division of Infectious Diseases VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA.,David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Debika Bhattacharya
- Division of Infectious Diseases VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA.,Division of Infectious Diseases Department of Medicine David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA
| | - Joseph R Pisegna
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA
| | - Folasade P May
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA
| | - Arpan A Patel
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA
| | - Jihane N Benhammou
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles CA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System Los Angeles CA
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31
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Rich NE, Yang JD, Perumalswami PV, Alkhouri N, Jackson W, Parikh ND, Mehta N, Salgia R, Duarte-Rojo A, Kulik L, Rakoski M, Said A, Oloruntoba O, Ioannou GN, Hoteit MA, Moon AM, Rangnekar AS, Eswaran SL, Zheng E, Jou JH, Hanje J, Pillai A, Hernaez R, Wong R, Scaglione S, Samant H, Kapuria D, Chandna S, Rosenblatt R, Ajmera V, Frenette CT, Satapathy SK, Mantry P, Jalal P, John BV, Fix OK, Leise M, Lindenmeyer CC, Flores A, Patel N, Jiang ZG, Latt N, Dhanasekaran R, Odewole M, Kagan S, Marrero JA, Singal AG. Provider Attitudes and Practice Patterns for Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy for Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:974-983. [PMID: 31357028 PMCID: PMC8174017 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are effective against hepatitis C virus and sustained virologic response is associated with reduced incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is controversy over the use of DAAs in patients with active or treated HCC and uncertainty about optimal management of these patients. We aimed to characterize attitudes and practice patterns of hepatology practitioners in the United States regarding the use of DAAs in patients with HCC. METHODS We conducted a survey of hepatology providers at 47 tertiary care centers in 25 states. Surveys were sent to 476 providers and we received 279 responses (58.6%). RESULTS Provider beliefs about risk of HCC recurrence after DAA therapy varied: 48% responded that DAAs reduce risk, 36% responded that DAAs do not change risk, and 16% responded that DAAs increase risk of HCC recurrence. However, most providers believed DAAs to be beneficial to and reduce mortality of patients with complete response to HCC treatment. Accordingly, nearly all providers (94.9%) reported recommending DAA therapy to patients with early-stage HCC who received curative treatment. However, fewer providers recommended DAA therapy for patients with intermediate (72.9%) or advanced (57.5%) HCC undergoing palliative therapies. Timing of DAA initiation varied among providers based on HCC treatment modality: 49.1% of providers reported they would initiate DAA therapy within 3 months of surgical resection whereas 45.9% and 5.0% would delay DAA initiation for 3-12 months and >1 year post-surgery, respectively. For patients undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), 42.0% of providers would provide DAAs within 3 months of the procedure, 46.7% would delay DAAs until 3-12 months afterward, and 11.3% would delay DAAs more than 1 year after TACE. CONCLUSIONS Based on a survey sent to hepatology providers, there is variation in provider attitudes and practice patterns regarding use and timing of DAAs for patients with HCC. Further studies are needed to characterize the risks and benefits of DAA therapy in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Comprehensive Transplant Center and Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ponni V Perumalswami
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Naim Alkhouri
- Texas Liver Institute, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Whitney Jackson
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Neehar D Parikh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Neil Mehta
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Reena Salgia
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Andres Duarte-Rojo
- T.E. Starzl Transplantation Institute and Center for Liver Disease, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Laura Kulik
- Division of Hepatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Mina Rakoski
- Transplantation Institute and Division of Gastroenterology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California
| | - Adnan Said
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Omobonike Oloruntoba
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Duke University Health Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - George N Ioannou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Research and Development, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Healthcare System and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Maarouf A Hoteit
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew M Moon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Amol S Rangnekar
- Division of Gastroenterology, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Sheila L Eswaran
- Division of Gastroenterology, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Elizabeth Zheng
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Janice H Jou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - James Hanje
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Anjana Pillai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. Debakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Alameda Health System, Oakland, California
| | - Steven Scaglione
- Division of Hepatology, Loyola University Medical Center and Edward Hines Veterans Affairs, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hrishikesh Samant
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Devika Kapuria
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Shaun Chandna
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Russell Rosenblatt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine - New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York
| | - Veeral Ajmera
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Catherine T Frenette
- Division of Organ Transplantation, Scripps Green Hospital, San Diego, California
| | - Sanjaya K Satapathy
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | | | - Prasun Jalal
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Binu V John
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Oren K Fix
- Organ Transplant Department, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Michael Leise
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Avegail Flores
- Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Nayan Patel
- Banner Transplant Institute, Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Z Gordon Jiang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nyan Latt
- Oschner Multi-Organ Transplant Institute, Oschner Health System, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | | | - Mobolaji Odewole
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Sofia Kagan
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jorge A Marrero
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Amit G Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Disparities in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance: Dissecting the Roles of Patient, Provider, and Health System Factors. J Clin Gastroenterol 2020; 54:218-226. [PMID: 31913877 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and remains one of the most rapidly rising cancers among the US adults. While overall HCC survival is poor, early diagnosis via timely and consistent implementation of routine HCC surveillance among at-risk individuals leads to earlier tumor stage at diagnosis, which is directly correlated with improved options for potentially curative therapies, translating into improved overall survival. Despite this well-established understanding of the benefits of HCC surveillance, surveillance among cirrhosis patients remains suboptimal in a variety of practice settings. While the exact reasons underlying the unacceptably low rates of routine HCC surveillance are complex, it likely reflects multifactorial contributions at the patient, provider, and health care system levels. Furthermore, these multilevel challenges affect ethnic minorities disproportionately, which is particularly concerning given that ethnic minorities already experience existing barriers in timely access to consistent medical care, and these populations are disproportionately affected by HCC burden in the United States. In this review, we provide an updated evaluation of the existing literature on rates of HCC surveillance in the United States. We specifically highlight the existing literature on the impact of patient-specific, provider-specific, and health care system-specific factors in contributing to challenges in effective implementation of HCC surveillance.
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Francica G, Borzio M. Status of, and strategies for improving, adherence to HCC screening and surveillance. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2019; 6:131-141. [PMID: 31440486 PMCID: PMC6664854 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s159269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and the main cause of death in patients with cirrhosis. Secondary prevention of HCC can be accomplished through the serial application of screening tests (ultrasound with or without alpha-fetoprotein) to detect the presence of subclinical lesions amenable to potentially curative treatment, such as surgery and ablation. The efficacy of HCC screening is accepted by hepatologists in terms of decline in cancer-specific mortality, but its translation into clinical practice is less than ideal. The effectiveness of HCC screening is hampered by several factors: failure to identify at-risk patients, failure to access care and failure to detect HCC. For each of these steps, possible improvements are discussed in order to face the changing etiology of cirrhosis and expand the screening of at-risk populations by including selected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giampiero Francica
- Unità Operativa Ecografia ed Ecointerventistica, Pineta Grande Hospital, Castel Volturno, Italy
| | - Mauro Borzio
- Unità Operativa Complessa Gastroenterologia ed Endoscopia Digestiva, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Melegnano e della Martesana, Milano, Italy
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Frenette CT, Isaacson AJ, Bargellini I, Saab S, Singal AG. A Practical Guideline for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening in Patients at Risk. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2019; 3:302-310. [PMID: 31485568 PMCID: PMC6713857 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises in the context of cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections, and the diagnosis is often made at advanced stages. Because early-stage diagnosis improves survival, guidelines recommend screening patients at risk for HCC, such as patients with cirrhosis. However, adherence to screening programs is suboptimal. In this review, we discuss the value of HCC screening and provide practical guidance on patient selection and screening methods. International guidelines concordantly recommend HCC screening in patients with cirrhosis, including patients with HBV infections, hepatitis C virus infections with or without sustained virologic response, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. There is no consensus on screening patients without cirrhosis, although patients with advanced fibrosis, HBV infections, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease without cirrhosis have an increased risk for development of HCC. Screening for HCC improves early tumor detection, receipt of curative treatment, and overall survival in at-risk patients. However, potential harms of HCC screening have not been well quantified. Semiannual abdominal ultrasonography is the screening modality of choice. Using ultrasonography in combination with biomarkers, such as α-fetoprotein, may increase accuracy for early HCC detection. The use of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography is limited by cost-effectiveness and practical considerations. Increased awareness of HCC screening will allow for earlier diagnosis and potentially curative treatment. We propose a comprehensive screening algorithm for patients at risk for development of HCC, recommending lifelong, semiannual ultrasonography combined with α-fetoprotein testing in patients with cirrhosis and selected patients without cirrhosis.
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Key Words
- AFP, α-fetoprotein
- CT, computed tomography
- HBV, hepatitis B virus
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HCV, hepatitis C virus
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- NAFLD, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- RCT, randomized controlled trial
- SVR, sustained viral response
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ari J Isaacson
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Irene Bargellini
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Pisa University Hospital, Italy
| | - Sammy Saab
- Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Pfleger Liver Institute & General Surgery Suite, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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Kanwal F, Singal AG. Surveillance for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Best Practice and Future Direction. Gastroenterology 2019; 157:54-64. [PMID: 30986389 PMCID: PMC6636644 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2019.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and the fastest growing cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The overall prognosis of HCC remains dismal, except for the subset of patients who are diagnosed at early stage and receive potentially curative therapies, such as surgical resection and liver transplantation. Given this, expert society guidelines recommend HCC surveillance every 6 months in at-risk individuals. Despite these recommendations, the effectiveness of HCC surveillance remains a subject of debate. We discuss current best practices for HCC surveillance and the evidence that support these recommendations. We also describe several initiatives that are underway to improve HCC surveillance and outline areas that may serve as high-yield targets for future research. Overall, we believe these efforts will help the field move toward precision surveillance, where surveillance tests and intervals are tailored to individual HCC risk. Doing so can maximize surveillance benefits, minimize surveillance harms, and optimize overall value for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fasiha Kanwal
- Sections of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Health Services Research, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Center of Innovation, Effectiveness and Quality, Houston, Texas.
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Choi DT, Kum HC, Park S, Ohsfeldt RL, Shen Y, Parikh ND, Singal AG. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening Is Associated With Increased Survival of Patients With Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17:976-987.e4. [PMID: 30616961 PMCID: PMC6431264 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening of patients with cirrhosis is recommended by professional societies to increase detection of early stage tumors and survival, but is underused in clinical practice. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 13,714 patients diagnosed with HCC from 2003 through 2013 included in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program-Medicare database. We characterized receipt of HCC screening in the 3 years before HCC diagnosis using mutually exclusive categories (consistent vs inconsistent vs no screening) and the proportion of time covered with screening. Correlates for screening receipt were assessed using a multivariable 2-part regression model. We examined the association between screening receipt and early detection of tumors using multivariable logistic regression. We evaluated associations between screening receipt and overall survival using a Cox proportional hazards model, after adjustments for effects of lead-time bias and length-time bias on survival rate estimators. RESULTS Most patients with cirrhosis (51.1%) did not receive any screening in the 3 years before a diagnosis of HCC, and only 6.8% of patients underwent consistent annual screening. The proportion with consistent screening increased from 5.4% in 2003 to 2006 to 8.8% in 2011 to 2013 (P < .001). The mean proportion of time covered was 13.4% overall, which increased from 11.7% in 2003 to 2006 to 15.2% in 2011 to 2013. Receipt of consistent screening was associated with detection of early stage tumors (odds ratio, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.68-2.33) and a reduced risk of death after correction for lead-time bias (hazard ratio, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.70-0.83). Inconsistent screening was associated with a slightly smaller increase in early detection of HCC (odds ratio, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.20-1.43) and a reduced risk of death (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.83-0.90). After correction for lead- and length-time biases, higher proportions of patients with consistent (23%; 95% CI, 21%-25%) and inconsistent screening (19%; 95% CI, 19%-20%) survived for 3 years compared with patients without screening (13%; 95% CI, 12%-14%). CONCLUSIONS In an analysis of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program-Medicare database, we found HCC screening to be underused for patients with cirrhosis. This contributes to detection of liver tumors at later stages and shorter times of survival. However, the proportion of patients screened for HCC has increased over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra T. Choi
- Health Services Research & Development Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX,Department of Health Policy & Management, School of Public Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX
| | - Hye-Chung Kum
- Department of Health Policy & Management, School of Public Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX,Population Informatics Lab, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX,Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Sulki Park
- Population Informatics Lab, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX,Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Robert L. Ohsfeldt
- Department of Health Policy & Management, School of Public Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX,Population Informatics Lab, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX
| | - Yu Shen
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Neehar D. Parikh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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Simmons OL, Feng Y, Parikh ND, Singal AG. Primary Care Provider Practice Patterns and Barriers to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17:766-773. [PMID: 30056183 PMCID: PMC7212522 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Low rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance are primarily due to provider-related process failures. However, few studies have evaluated primary care provider (PCP) practice patterns, attitudes, and barriers to HCC surveillance at academic tertiary care referral centers. METHODS We conducted a web-based survey of PCPs at 2 tertiary care referral centers (133 providers) from June 2017 through December 2017. The survey was adapted from pretested surveys and included questions about practice patterns, attitudes, and barriers to HCC surveillance. We used the Fisher exact and Mann-Whitney rank-sum tests to identify factors associated with adherence to HCC surveillance recommendations, for categoric and continuous variables, respectively. RESULTS We obtained a provider-level response rate of 75% and clinic-level response rate of 100% (133 providers). Whereas most PCPs performed HCC surveillance themselves, one-third deferred surveillance to subspecialists and referred patients to a hepatology clinic. Providers believed the combination of ultrasound and α-fetoprotein analysis to be highly effective for early stage tumor detection and reported using the combination for assessment of most patients. However, PCPs were more likely to use computed tomography- or magnetic resonance imaging-based surveillance for patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or decompensated cirrhosis. Most providers believed HCC surveillance to be efficacious for early tumor detection and increasing survival. However, they desired increased high-quality evidence to characterize screening benefits and harms. Providers expressed notable misconceptions about HCC surveillance, including the role for measurement of liver enzyme levels in HCC surveillance and cost effectiveness of surveillance in patients without cirrhosis. They also reported barriers, including not being up to date on HCC surveillance recommendations, limited time in the clinic, and competing clinical concerns. CONCLUSIONS In a web-based survey, PCPs reported misconceptions and barriers to HCC surveillance. This indicates the need for interventions, including provider education, to improve HCC surveillance effectiveness in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okeefe L. Simmons
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Yuan Feng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Neehar D. Parikh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Ultrasound Screening and Surveillance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40134-019-0317-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Im S, Jang ES, Lee JH, Lee CS, Kim BH, Chung JW, Kim JW, Jeong SH. Surveillance Rate and its Impact on Survival of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients in South Korea: A Cohort Study. Cancer Res Treat 2019; 51:1357-1369. [PMID: 30744319 PMCID: PMC6790861 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2018.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Though regular surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for high-risk patients is widely recommended, its rate and effectiveness are not clear. The aim of this study is to investigate the actual rate of HCC surveillance and its related factors and to clarify its impact on survival in a Korean HCC cohort. Materials and Methods From 2012 to 2015, 319 newly diagnosed HCC patients were prospectively enrolled at a tertiary hospital. Patient interviews based on a structured questionnaire survey were conducted. Surveillance was defined as liver imaging test ≥ 2 times with at least 3-month interval within 2 years prior to HCC diagnosis. Results Surveillance rate was 39.8%. Of the HCC patients with high-risk factors, only 182 (57.1%) had knowledge for the need for regular surveillance, and 141 (44.2%) had the accurate information about the method (ultrasound-based study). Surveillance group showed a higher proportion of early HCC (p < 0.001) and a longer overall survival (p < 0.001) compared to non-surveillance group. The multivariable Cox regression analysis indicated Child-Pugh class A, history of anti-viral therapy, low serum α-fetoprotein level, non-advanced Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage as independent predictors of overall survival, while regular surveillance was not (p=0.436). Conclusion Less than half of the newly diagnosed Korean HCC patients were under surveillance and the accurate perception for the need of HCC surveillance was insufficient. Of those under surveillance, most patients were diagnosed with early stage HCC, which led to the improved survival. Comprehensive efforts to optimize the surveillance program for the target population are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghyuk Im
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Eun Sun Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Ju Hyun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Chung Seop Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Beom Hee Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jung Wha Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jin-Wook Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Sook-Hyang Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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Rich NE, Hester C, Odewole M, Murphy CC, Parikh ND, Marrero JA, Yopp AC, Singal AG. Racial and Ethnic Differences in Presentation and Outcomes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17:551-559.e1. [PMID: 29859983 PMCID: PMC6274621 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Racial and ethnic minorities are reported to have higher mortality related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than non-Hispanic whites. However, it is not clear whether differences in tumor characteristics or liver dysfunction among racial or ethnic groups affect characterization of causes for this disparity. We aimed to characterize racial and ethnic differences in HCC presentation, treatment, and survival. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with HCC from January 2008 through July 2017 at 2 large health systems in the United States. We used multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models to identify factors associated with receipt of curative therapy and overall survival. RESULTS Among 1117 patients with HCC (35.9% white, 34.3% black, 29.7% Hispanic), 463 (41.5%) were diagnosed with early stage HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage 0/A) and 322 (28.8%) underwent curative treatment. Hispanic (odds ratio [OR], 0.75; 95% CI, 0.55-1.00) and black patients (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.56-0.98) were less likely to be diagnosed with early stage HCC than white patients. Among patients with early stage HCC, Hispanics were less likely to undergo curative treatment than whites (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.36-0.91). Black patients with early stage HCC were also less likely to undergo curative treatment than white patients, but this difference was not statistically significant (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.43-1.03). Black and Hispanic patients had shorter median survival times than white patients (10.6 and 14.4 mo vs 16.3 mo). After adjusting for type of medical insurance, Child-Pugh class, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, and receipt of HCC treatment, black patients had significantly higher mortality (hazard ratio, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.10-1.14) and Hispanic patients had lower mortality (hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74-0.94) than white patients. CONCLUSIONS In a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with HCC, we found racial/ethnic differences in outcomes of HCC to be associated with differences in detection of tumors at early stages and receipt of curative treatment. These factors are intervention targets for improving patient outcomes and reducing disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E. Rich
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, TX
| | - Caitlin Hester
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX
| | - Mobolaji Odewole
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, TX
| | - Caitlin C. Murphy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX
| | - Neehar D. Parikh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jorge A. Marrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, TX
| | - Adam C. Yopp
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, TX,Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX
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Low Rates of Retention Into Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Surveillance Program After Initial HCC Screening. J Clin Gastroenterol 2019; 53:65-70. [PMID: 29629906 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
GOALS To evaluate rates and predictors of retention into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance beyond initial screening among underserved cirrhosis patients. BACKGROUND Although initial HCC screening among cirrhosis patients remains low, few studies have evaluated retention to HCC surveillance beyond initial screening. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive adults with cirrhosis from 2014 to 2017 at a single underserved safety net hospital system to determine rates of HCC surveillance at 6 months and at 1 year beyond initial screening. Rates of HCC surveillance was stratified by sex, race/ethnicity, and etiology of liver disease. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models evaluated predictors of retention into HCC surveillance. RESULTS Among 235 cirrhosis patients [hepatitis C virus: 35.7%, hepatitis B virus (HBV): 15.7%, alcoholic cirrhosis: 36.2%, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): 8.1%], mean age of cirrhosis diagnosis was 54.2±8.9 years. Overall, 74.8% received initial screening within 1 year of cirrhosis diagnosis. Among those who completed initial screening, 47.6% [95% confidence interval (CI), 41.4-54.2) received second surveillance within 1 year. On multivariate analyses, patients with NASH and HBV were significantly more likely to receive second HCC surveillance compared with hepatitis C virus, HBV (hazard ratio, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.18-4.56; P=0.014) and NASH (hazard ratio, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.22-5.11; P=0.012). No sex or race-specific/ethnicity-specific differences in HCC surveillance retention were observed. CONCLUSIONS Although overall rates of initial HCC screening among cirrhosis patients is nearly 75%, retention into continued HCC surveillance is poor, with less than half of patients undergoing subsequent HCC surveillance. Cirrhosis patients with HBV and NASH were more likely to be retained into HCC surveillance.
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Singal AG, Tiro JA, Murphy CC, Marrero JA, McCallister K, Fullington H, Mejias C, Waljee AK, Bishop WP, Santini NO, Halm EA. Mailed Outreach Invitations Significantly Improve HCC Surveillance Rates in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Hepatology 2019; 69:121-130. [PMID: 30070379 PMCID: PMC6324997 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance is associated with early tumor detection and improved survival in patients with cirrhosis; however, effectiveness is limited by underuse. We compared the effectiveness of mailed outreach and patient navigation strategies to increase HCC surveillance in a racially diverse cohort of patients with cirrhosis. We conducted a pragmatic randomized clinical trial comparing mailed outreach for screening ultrasound (n = 600), mailed outreach plus patient navigation (n = 600), or usual care with visit-based screening (n = 600) among 1800 patients with cirrhosis at a large safety-net health system from December 2014 to March 2017. Patients who did not respond to outreach invitations within 2 weeks received reminder telephone calls. Patient navigation included an assessment of barriers to surveillance and encouragement of surveillance participation. The primary outcome was HCC surveillance (abdominal imaging every 6 months) over an 18-month period. All 1800 patients were included in intention-to-screen analyses. HCC surveillance was performed in 23.3% of outreach/navigation patients, 17.8% of outreach-alone patients, and 7.3% of usual care patients. HCC surveillance was 16.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.0%-20.0%) and 10.5% (95% CI: 6.8%-14.2%) higher in outreach groups than usual care (P < 0.001 for both) and 5.5% (95% CI: 0.9%-10.1%) higher for outreach/navigation than outreach alone (P = 0.02). Both interventions increased HCC surveillance across predefined patient subgroups. The proportion of HCC patients detected at an early stage did not differ between groups; however, a higher proportion of patients with screen-detected HCC across groups had early-stage tumors than those with HCC detected incidentally or symptomatically (83.3% versus 30.8%, P = 0.003). Conclusion: Mailed outreach invitations and navigation significantly increased HCC surveillance versus usual care in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dallas, TX
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jasmin A. Tiro
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Caitlin C. Murphy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jorge A. Marrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | | | - Hannah Fullington
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Caroline Mejias
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Akbar K. Waljee
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, MI
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Wendy Pechero Bishop
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Noel O. Santini
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dallas, TX
| | - Ethan A. Halm
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dallas, TX
- Department of Clinical Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- Harold C. Simmons Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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43
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Singal AG, Parikh ND, Rich NE, John BV, Pillai A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance and Staging. MOLECULAR AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21540-8_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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44
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Yeboah‐Korang A, Gentile NM, Fimmel CJ. PRO: Patients With Hepatitis C Virus With Pretreatment Metavir Stage 3 Fibrosis Do Not Require Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance After Sustained Virological Response. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2018; 12:133-136. [PMID: 30988929 PMCID: PMC6385929 DOI: 10.1002/cld.649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amoah Yeboah‐Korang
- Section of Gastroenterology NorthShore University Health System Evanston HospitalEvanstonIL
| | - Nicole M. Gentile
- Section of Gastroenterology NorthShore University Health System Evanston HospitalEvanstonIL
| | - Claus J. Fimmel
- Section of Gastroenterology NorthShore University Health System Evanston HospitalEvanstonIL
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45
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Low JTS, Rohde G, Pittordou K, Candy B, Davis S, Marshall A, Stone P. Supportive and palliative care in people with cirrhosis: International systematic review of the perspective of patients, family members and health professionals. J Hepatol 2018; 69:1260-1273. [PMID: 30243996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS People with cirrhosis have unmet needs, which could benefit from a palliative care approach. Developing effective services needs to be based on evidence from those with personal experience. This review aims to explore; patient and family perspectives of perceived needs including communication; health professionals' perspectives on delivery of care and improving palliative care between specialities. METHODS A literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase and CINAHL using key words reporting on the perspectives of patients with liver cirrhosis (18 years and over), family members or health professionals on the provision of care in liver cirrhosis. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Qualitative and quantitative findings were grouped together according to the main relevant themes identified. RESULTS Nineteen research studies predominantly from high-income Western countries were identified, with a total sample consisting of 1,413 patients, 31 family carers and 733 health professionals. Patients and family members had limited understanding of cirrhosis or its impact. They wanted better information about their disease, its treatment and help with psychological and practical needs. Health professionals had difficulty communicating about these issues to patients and their families. General practitioners left care predominantly to the liver clinicians, who lacked confidence to have discussions about prognosis or future care preferences. The role of palliative care was recognised as important in caring for this group through earlier integration with liver and community services. CONCLUSIONS Health professionals need support to improve their communication with patients, to address patients' broader needs beyond medical treatment and to develop new models to improve palliative care coordination between different medical specialities. Future research should focus on developing communication aides, testing existing tools to identify suitable patients for supportive care and exploring robust ways of evaluating supportive care interventions, with more studies needed from middle- and low-income countries. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42017064770. LAY SUMMARY Patients and their families had a poor understanding of advanced liver disease and its impact on them. They need more information about the treatments they receive and how to get practical and psychological support. Liver specialists and GPs found it difficult to talk to patients and their families about the seriousness of advanced liver disease and the lack of healthcare options available to them if their condition gets worse. All doctors and nurses involved in the care of patients with advanced liver disease recognise that palliative and supportive care have an important role in improving patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T S Low
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom.
| | - Gudrun Rohde
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder and Department of Clinical Research, Sorlandet Hospital, Postboks 422, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Katherine Pittordou
- Whittington Health NHS Trust, Magdala Avenue, London N19 5NF, United Kingdom
| | - Bridget Candy
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Davis
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen Marshall
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital & University College London Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Royal Free Campus, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Paddy Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom
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46
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Cotton RT, Tran Cao HS, Rana AA, Sada YH, Axelrod DA, Goss JA, Wilson MA, Curley SA, Massarweh NN. Impact of the Treating Hospital on Care Outcomes for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Hepatology 2018; 68:1879-1889. [PMID: 30070392 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Multidisciplinary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment is associated with optimal outcomes. There are few data analyzing the impact of treating hospitals' therapeutic offerings on survival. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients aged 18-70 years with HCC in the National Cancer Database (2004-2012). Hospitals were categorized based on the level of treatment offered (Type I-nonsurgical; Type II-ablation; Type III-resection; Type IV-transplant). Associations between overall risk of death and hospital type were evaluated with multivariable Cox shared frailty modeling. Among 50,381 patients, 65% received care in Type IV hospitals, 26% in Type III, 3% in Type II, and 6% in Type I. Overall 5-year survival across modalities was highest at Type IV hospitals (untreated: Type IV-13.1% versus Type I-5.7%, Type II-7.0%, Type III-7.4% [log-rank, P < 0.001]; chemotherapy and/or radiation: Type IV-18.1% versus Type I-3.6%, Type II-4.6%, Type III-7.7% [log-rank, P < 0.001]; ablation: Type IV-33.3% versus Type II-13.6%, Type III-23.6% [log-rank, P < 0.001]; resection: Type IV-48.4% versus Type III-39.1% [log-rank, P < 0.001]). Risk of death demonstrated a dose-response relationship with the hospital type-Type I (ref); Type II (hazard ratio [HR] 0.81, 95% confidence interval [0.73-0.90]); Type III (HR 0.67 [0.62-0.72]); Type IV hospitals (HR 0.43 [0.39-0.47]). Conclusion: Although care at hospitals offering the full complement of HCC treatments is associated with decreased risk of death, one third of patients are not treated at these hospitals. These data can inform the value of health policy initiatives regarding regionalization of HCC care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald T Cotton
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Hop S Tran Cao
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Abbas A Rana
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Yvonne H Sada
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.,VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
| | - David A Axelrod
- Department of Abdominal Transplantation, Lahey Hospital & Medical Clinic, Boston, MA
| | - John A Goss
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Mark A Wilson
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh and VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Steven A Curley
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Nader N Massarweh
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.,VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
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47
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Robinson A, Tavakoli H, Liu B, Bhuket T, Wong RJ. Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumor Stage at Diagnosis in the 1945-1965 Birth Cohort Reflects Poor Use of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening. Hepatol Commun 2018; 2:1147-1155. [PMID: 30202827 PMCID: PMC6128228 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals from the 1945-1965 birth cohort account for the majority of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases in the United States. Understanding trends in HCC among this birth cohort is vital given the increasing burden of chronic liver disease among this group. We retrospectively evaluated trends and disparities in HCC tumor stage at the time of diagnosis among the 1945-1965 birth cohort in the United States using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) cancer registry. Tumor stage at the time of HCC diagnosis was assessed using Milan criteria and SEER HCC staging systems. Among 38,045 patients with HCC within the 1945-1965 birth cohort (81.6% male, 50.1% non-Hispanic white, 16.2% African American, 12.6% Asian, 19.8% Hispanic), 66.2% had Medicare or commercial insurance, 27.2% had Medicaid, and 6.6% were uninsured. During the period 2004-2006 to 2013-2014, the number of patients with HCC from the 1945-1965 birth cohort increased by 58.7% (5.9% increase per year). While the proportion of patients with HCC within the Milan criteria increased with time (36.4% in 2003-2006 to 46.3% in 2013-2014; P < 0.01), less than half were within the Milan criteria. On multivariate analysis within the Milan criteria, men were 12% less likely to have HCC compared to women, and African Americans were 27% less likely to have HCC compared to non-Hispanic whites (odds ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.68-0.78; P < 0.01). Conclusion: From 2004 to 2014, the burden of newly diagnosed HCC among the 1945-1965 birth cohort increased by 5.9% per year. While improvements in earlier staged HCC at diagnosis were observed, the majority of patients with HCC among the 1945-1965 birth cohort were beyond the Milan criteria at diagnosis; this may reflect poor utilization or suboptimal performance of HCC screening tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Robinson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyAlameda Health System – Highland HospitalOaklandCA
| | - Hesam Tavakoli
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyAlameda Health System – Highland HospitalOaklandCA
| | - Benny Liu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyAlameda Health System – Highland HospitalOaklandCA
| | - Taft Bhuket
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyAlameda Health System – Highland HospitalOaklandCA
| | - Robert J. Wong
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyAlameda Health System – Highland HospitalOaklandCA
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Sheppard-Law S, Zablotska-Manos I, Kermeen M, Holdaway S, Lee A, George J, Zekry A, Maher L. Utilisation of hepatocellular carcinoma screening in Australians at risk of hepatitis B virus-related carcinoma and prescribed anti-viral therapy. J Clin Nurs 2018; 27:2673-2683. [PMID: 29603817 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To investigate hepatocellular carcinoma screening utilisation and factors associated with utilisation among patients prescribed hepatitis B virus anti-viral therapy and at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. BACKGROUND The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma has increased in Australia over the past three decades with chronic hepatitis B virus infection a major contributor. hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance programs aim to detect cancers early enabling curative treatment options, longer survival and longer times to recurrence. DESIGN Multi-site cross-sectional survey. METHODS An online study questionnaire was administered to eligible participants attending three Sydney tertiary hospitals. Data were grouped into six mutually exclusive hepatocellular carcinoma risk factor categories as per American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases guidelines. All analyses were undertaken in STATA. Logistic regression was used to assess the associations between covariates and screening utilisation. Multivariate models described were assessed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit. RESULTS Of the 177 participants, 137 (77.4%) self-reported that US had been performed in the last six months. Awareness that screening should be performed and knowing the correct frequency of US screening were independently associated with screening utilisation. Participants who knew that screening should be undertaken were three times more likely to have had pretreatment education or were prescribed hepatitis B virus anti-viral treatment for >4 years. Participants reporting a family history of hepatocellular carcinoma were less likely to know that screening should be undertaken every 6 months. CONCLUSION While utilisation of hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance programs was higher in this study than in previous reports, strategies to further improve surveillance remain necessary. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Findings from this research form the basis for proposing strategies to improve utilisation of hepatocellular carcinoma screening, inform hepatitis B virus-related clinical practice and for the delivery of care and nursing education to people receiving hepatitis B virus anti-viral therapy and at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Sheppard-Law
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Children's Hospital Network-Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,The Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Melissa Kermeen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Services, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Susan Holdaway
- Storr Liver Unit, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Alice Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Services, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Unit, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Amany Zekry
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia.,St George Hospital Clinical Group School of Medicine, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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49
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Tzartzeva K, Obi J, Rich NE, Parikh ND, Marrero JA, Yopp A, Waljee AK, Singal AG. Surveillance Imaging and Alpha Fetoprotein for Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Meta-analysis. Gastroenterology 2018; 154:1706-1718.e1. [PMID: 29425931 PMCID: PMC5927818 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.01.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 653] [Impact Index Per Article: 108.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Society guidelines differ in their recommendations for surveillance to detect early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis. We compared the performance of surveillance imaging, with or without alpha fetoprotein (AFP), for early detection of HCC in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS Two reviewers searched MEDLINE and SCOPUS from January 1990 through August 2016 to identify published sensitivity and specificity of surveillance strategies for overall and early detection of HCC. Pooled estimates were calculated and compared using the DerSimonian and Laird method for a random effects model. The study was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines. RESULTS Thirty-two studies (comprising 13,367 patients) characterized sensitivity of imaging with or without AFP measurement for detection of HCC in patients with cirrhosis. Ultrasound detected any stage HCC with 84% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 76%-92%), but early-stage HCC with only 47% sensitivity (95% CI 33%-61%). In studies comparing ultrasound with vs without AFP measurement, ultrasound detected any stage HCC with a lower level of sensitivity than ultrasound plus AFP measurement (relative risk [RR] 0.88; 95% CI 0.83-0.93) and early-stage HCC with a lower level of sensitivity than ultrasound plus AFP measurement (RR 0.81; 95% CI 0.71-0.93). However, ultrasound alone detected HCC with a higher level of specificity than ultrasound plus AFP measurement (RR 1.08; 95% CI 1.05-1.09). Ultrasound with vs without AFP detected early-stage HCC with 63% sensitivity (95% CI 48%-75%) and 45% sensitivity (95% CI 30%-62%), respectively (P = .002). Only 4 studies evaluated computed tomography or magnetic resonance image-based surveillance, which detected HCC with 84% sensitivity (95% CI 70%-92%). CONCLUSIONS We found ultrasound alone has a low sensitivity to detect early stage HCC in patients with cirrhosis. Addition of AFP to ultrasound significantly increases sensitivity of early HCC detection in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Tzartzeva
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Joseph Obi
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Nicole E Rich
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Neehar D Parikh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jorge A Marrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Adam Yopp
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Akbar K Waljee
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Health Care System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas.
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50
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Medicaid and Uninsured Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Have More Advanced Tumor Stage and Are Less Likely to Receive Treatment. J Clin Gastroenterol 2018; 52:437-443. [PMID: 28723861 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
GOALS To evaluate the impact of insurance status on tumor stage at diagnosis, treatment received, and overall survival among adults with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). BACKGROUND Insurance status affects access to care, which impacts timely access to cancer screening for early detection and treatment. STUDY Using the 2007 to 2012 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, we retrospectively evaluated US adults with HCC. Insurance status included Medicare/commercial insurance (MC), Medicaid (MA), and no insurance (NI). HCC tumor stage was evaluated using SEER staging system and Milan criteria. HCC treatment and survival were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS Among 32,388 HCC patients (71.2% MC, 23.9% MA, and 4.9% NI), patients with MA or NI were significantly less likely to have localized tumor stage at time of diagnosis compared with MC [NI vs. MC; odds ratio, 0.41; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.78-0.92; P<0.001]. MA and NI patients were less likely to receive treatment, and specifically less likely to receive surgical resection or liver transplantation compared with MC patients, even after correcting for tumor stage at diagnosis (odds of surgical resection or liver transplant in NI vs. MC: odds ratio, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.21-0.33; P<0.001). NI patients (hazard ratio, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.29-1.50; P<0.001) had significantly lower survival compared with MC patients. CONCLUSIONS Among US adults with HCC, MA, or NI patients had more advanced tumor stage at diagnosis, lower rates treatment, and significantly lower overall survival. Ensuring equal insurance coverage may improve access to care and mitigate some disparities in HCC outcomes.
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