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Cao LM, Zhong NN, Chen Y, Li ZZ, Wang GR, Xiao Y, Liu XH, Jia J, Liu B, Bu LL. Less is more: Exploring neoadjuvant immunotherapy as a de-escalation strategy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treatment. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217095. [PMID: 38964728 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) constitutes a significant global cancer burden, given its high prevalence and associated mortality. Despite substantial progress in survival rates due to the enhanced multidisciplinary approach to treatment, these methods often lead to severe tissue damage, compromised function, and potential toxicity. Thus, there is an imperative need for novel, effective, and minimally damaging treatment modalities. Neoadjuvant treatment, an emerging therapeutic strategy, is designed to reduce tumor size and curtail distant metastasis prior to definitive intervention. Currently, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) has optimized the treatment approach for a subset of HNSCC patients, yet it has not produced a noticeable enhancement in overall survival (OS). In the contemporary cancer therapeutics landscape, immunotherapy is gaining traction at an accelerated pace. Notably, neoadjuvant immunotherapy (NAIT) has shown promising radiological and pathological responses, coupled with encouraging efficacy in several clinical trials. This potentially paves the way for a myriad of possibilities in treatment de-escalation of HNSCC, which warrants further exploration. This paper reviews the existing strategies and efficacies of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), along with potential de-escalation strategies. Furthermore, the challenges encountered in the context of the de-escalation strategies of NAIT are explored. The aim is to inform future research directions that strive to improve the quality of life (QoL) for patients battling HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Ming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Nian-Nian Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Zi-Zhan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Guang-Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Xuan-Hao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Jun Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Lin-Lin Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Somatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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Olateju OA, Zeng Z, Zakeri M, Sansgiry SS. Patterns of immunotherapy utilization for non-small cell lung cancer in Texas pre- and post-regulatory approval. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:1908-1920. [PMID: 38554190 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03412-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunotherapy has shown remarkable benefits for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) since approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Texas, however, ranks below the national average in access to treatment for NSCLC. This retrospective cohort study assessed first-line immunotherapy treatment patterns and associated factors pre- and post-FDA approval in Texas. METHODS Patients ≥18 years diagnosed with NSCLC from the Texas Cancer Registry database (2011-2018) and were stratified into pre- and post-FDA approval era. The rates of immunotherapy utilization were examined, and the average annual percent change (AAPC) in immunotherapy utilization across patient subgroups was compared. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify associations of patient characteristics with immunotherapy utilization for patients with metastatic- and all-stage NSCLC. RESULTS A total of 13,501 and 9509 patients with NSCLC were identified in pre-post-approval periods, respectively. Post-approval, immunotherapy utilization increased from 1.7 to 13.0%, and AAPC from 54.8 to 82.7%. Pre-approval, patients living in a county with ≥20% of households below the poverty level were less likely to receive immunotherapy (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.61-0.94) while patients with private insurance were more likely to receive immunotherapy (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.10-2.23). Post-approval, socioeconomic disparities were more prominent (10-19.9 and ≥20% of households below the poverty level: OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.66-0.90 and OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.60-0.86, respectively). Patients with metastatic NSCLC showed similar patterns of socioeconomic disparities pre- and post-approval. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that patients' socioeconomic status hinders immunotherapy utilization for NSCLC in Texas. This emphasizes the need for state health policy reforms such as Medicaid expansion and tailored cancer care strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olajumoke Adenike Olateju
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Health 2, Room 4050, 4349 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77204-5047, USA
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Health 2, Room 4050, 4349 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77204-5047, USA
| | - Marjan Zakeri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Health 2, Room 4050, 4349 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77204-5047, USA
| | - Sujit S Sansgiry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Health 2, Room 4050, 4349 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77204-5047, USA.
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Olateju OA, Mgbere O, Thornton JD, Zeng Z, Essien EJ. Disparities in Survival Outcomes Among Patients With Metastatic Melanoma in Texas: Implications for Policy and Interventions in the Era of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Am J Clin Oncol 2024:00000421-990000000-00208. [PMID: 38937888 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Disparities exist in the length and quality of survival from melanoma. This study evaluated, in a Texas cohort, patient factors associated with melanoma survival and examined if newer immune-oncologic agents extend survival compared with conventional therapies. METHODS A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with metastatic melanoma from 2011 to 2018 in the Texas Cancer Registry database. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to evaluate patient characteristics associated with cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). The patient cohort was then grouped based on receipt of first-line immunotherapy or other therapies. The association between receipt of immunotherapy and survival was assessed with Kaplan-Meier analysis and inverse probability treatment weighted Cox regression. RESULTS There were 1372 patients with metastatic melanoma. Factors associated with increased melanoma mortality risk (CSS) included being male (HR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.02-1.26), non-Hispanic black (HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.13-1.45), living in poorer counties (HR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.20-1.64), and having multimorbidity (HR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.05-1.74). All minority races and Hispanics had poorer OS compared with non-Hispanic Whites. Patients who received first-line immunotherapy had significantly longer median (interquartile range) survival (CSS: 27.00 [21.00 to 42.00] mo vs. 16.00 [14.00 to 19.00] mo; OS: 22.00 [17.00 to 27.00] mo vs. 12.00 [11.00 to 14.00] mo). They also had reduced mortality risk (HR for CSS: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.73-0.88; P<0.0001; HR for OS: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.69-0.83; P<0.0001) compared with the nonimmunotherapy cohort. CONCLUSIONS This study showed differences in risks from melanoma survival based on patient demographic and clinical characteristics. Low socioeconomic status increased mortality risk, and first-line immunotherapy use favored survival. Health policies and tailored interventions that will promote equity in patient survival and survivorship are essential for managing metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olajumoke A Olateju
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston
- Institute of Community Health, University of Houston College of Pharmacy
| | - Osaro Mgbere
- Institute of Community Health, University of Houston College of Pharmacy
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health Sciences, Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston
- Public Health Science and Surveillance Division, Houston Health Department, Houston, TX
| | - J Douglas Thornton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston
| | - Ekere J Essien
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston
- Institute of Community Health, University of Houston College of Pharmacy
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Steadman JA, Glasgow AE, Neequaye NN, Habermann EB, Hieken TJ. Distinct presentation of melanoma in Black patients may inform strategies to improve outcomes. J Surg Oncol 2024; 129:1041-1050. [PMID: 38436625 DOI: 10.1002/jso.27608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Melanoma guidelines stem largely from data on non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients. We aimed to identify features of melanoma within non-Hispanic Black (NHB) patients to inform strategies for earlier detection and treatment. METHODS From 2004 to 2019 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, we identified nonmetastatic melanoma patients with known TN category and race. Kaplan-Meier cancer-specific survival (CSS) estimates and multivariable Cox proportional hazard modeling analyses were performed. RESULTS Of 492 597 patients, 1499 (0.3%) were NHB, who were younger (21% vs. 17% age <50) and more commonly female (54% vs. 41%) than NHW, both p < 0.0005. For NHBs, lower extremity was the most common site (52% vs. 15% for NHWs, p < 0.0001), T category was higher (55% Tis-T1 vs. 82%; 27% T3-T4 vs. 8%, p < 0.0001) and stage at presentation was higher (19% Stage III, vs. 6%, p < 0.0001). Within the NHB cohort, males were older, and more often node-positive than females. Five-year Stage III CSS was 42% for NHB males versus 71% for females, adjusting for age and clinical nodal status (hazard ratio 2.48). CONCLUSIONS NHB melanoma patients presented with distinct tumor characteristics. NHB males with Stage III disease had inferior CSS. Focus on this high-risk patient cohort to promote earlier detection and treatment may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Steadman
- Division of Breast and Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amy E Glasgow
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nikki N Neequaye
- Division of Breast and Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Habermann
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tina J Hieken
- Division of Breast and Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Pollini T, Tran T, Wong P, Adam MA, Alseidi A, Corvera C, Hirose K, Nakakura E, Warren R, Maker VK, Maker AV. Improved survival of patients receiving immunotherapy and chemotherapy following curative-intent resection of colorectal liver metastases. J Gastrointest Surg 2024; 28:246-251. [PMID: 38445916 DOI: 10.1016/j.gassur.2023.12.026] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite significant advancements in the treatment of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs), only a minority will experience long-term survival. This study aimed to determine the effect of chemotherapy (CT) and immunotherapy (IT) compared with that of CT alone on patient survival after surgical resection. METHODS Patients undergoing curative-intent liver resection followed by adjuvant systemic therapy for stage IV colon cancer were identified using the National Cancer Database. Patients were stratified into type of therapy (CT alone vs CT + IT) and microsatellite status. Propensity score-weighted analysis was performed through 1:1 matching based on the nearest neighbor method. RESULTS Of 9943 patients who underwent resection of CRLMs, 7971 (80%) received systemic adjuvant therapy. Of 7971 patients, 1432 (18%) received a combination of CT and IT. Microsatellite status was not associated with overall survival (OS). Adjuvant CT + IT was associated with increased 3-year OS compared with that of CT alone in both the unmatched cohort (55% vs 48%, respectively; P < .001) and matched cohort (52% vs 48%, respectively; P = .050). On multivariate analysis, older age, positive resection margins, and KRAS mutation were independent predictors of poor survival, whereas the administration of adjuvant CT + IT was an independent predictor of improved survival. CONCLUSION IT combined with CT was associated with improved survival compared with that of CT alone after curative-intent resection of CRLMs, regardless of microsatellite instability status. Clinical trials to determine optimal patient selection, IT regimen, and long-term efficacy to improve outcomes of patients with CRLMs are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Pollini
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Thuy Tran
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, United States; Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Paul Wong
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Mohamed A Adam
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Adnan Alseidi
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Carlos Corvera
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Kenzo Hirose
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Eric Nakakura
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Robert Warren
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Vijay K Maker
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Ajay V Maker
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States.
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Ramirez F, Riva H, Digbeu B, Samaniego M, Fernandez L, Mansour S, Vasquez R, Lopez DS, Chacon J. Effects of treatment methods on cutaneous melanoma related mortality and all-cause mortality in Texas: TCR-Medicare 2007-2017 database. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:265-275. [PMID: 37702966 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01780-1] [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: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The incidence of cutaneous melanoma is rising, and Melanoma related deaths are highest among people aged 65-74. Herein, we aim to understand the impact of novel and established melanoma treatment methods on CM related mortality and all-cause mortality. We further compared these effects among Hispanic and non-Hispanic Whites (NHW). METHODS The data was extracted from the Texas Cancer Registry from 2007 to 2017. A Cox Proportional Hazard regression analysis was performed to assess treatment effect on melanoma mortality and all-cause mortality, with race-ethnicity as an effect modifier. RESULTS A higher percentage of Hispanic patients presented with CM-related mortality (22.11%) compared to NHW patients (14.39%). In both the Hispanic and NHW, post-diagnosis radiation (HR = 1.610, 95% CI 0.984-2.634, HR = 2.348, 95% CI 2.082-2.648, respectively), post-diagnosis chemotherapy (HR = 1.899, 95% CI 1.085-3.322, HR = 2.035, 95% CI 1.664-2.489, respectively), and post-diagnosis immunotherapy (HR = 2.100, 95% CI 1.338-3.296, HR = 2.402, 95% CI 2.100-2.748) are each associated with an increased risk in CM-related mortality. Similar results were seen with post-diagnosis radiation (Hispanic HR = 1.640, 95% CI 1.121-2.400, NHW HR = 1.800, 95% CI 1.644-1.971), post-diagnostic chemotherapy (Hispanic HR = 1.457, 95% CI 0.898-2.364, NHW HR = 1.592, 95% CI 1.356-1.869), and post-diagnosis immunotherapy (Hispanic HR = 2.140, 95% CI 1.494-3.065, NHW HR = 2.190, 95% CI 1.969-2.435) with respect to all-cause mortality. Post-diagnosis surgery (HR = 0.581, 95% CI 0.395-0.856, HR = 0.622, 95% CI 0.571-0.678) had the opposite effect in CM-related mortality for Hispanics and NHWs respectively. CONCLUSION Our results propose differences in all-cause and CM-only related mortality with separate treatment modalities, particularly with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. In addition, this retrospective cohort study showed that health disparities exist in the Hispanic Medicare population of Texas with CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Ramirez
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Hannah Riva
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Biai Digbeu
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Michelle Samaniego
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Lorena Fernandez
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Sara Mansour
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Rebecca Vasquez
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - David S Lopez
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Medical Branch, The University of Texas, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
| | - Jessica Chacon
- Department of Medical Education, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, 5001 El Paso Dr, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA.
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Dhaliwal GS, Shahin AB, Lim ES, Mi L, Mangold AR, Swanson DL, Costello CM. Factors influencing receipt and time to treatment of immunotherapy relative to chemotherapy in stage III and stage IV melanoma. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e6888. [PMID: 38186321 PMCID: PMC10807657 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapies have changed the landscape of late-stage melanoma; however, data evaluating timely access to immunotherapy are lacking. METHODS A retrospective cohort study utilizing the National Cancer Database was conducted. Stage III and IV melanoma cases diagnosed between 2011 and 2018 that received systemic treatment with either immunotherapy or chemotherapy were included. Chemotherapy included BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to evaluate factors associated with the likelihood of receiving immunotherapy as primary systemic treatment relative to chemotherapy; additionally, Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to incorporate time from diagnosis to primary systemic therapy into the analysis. RESULTS The study population was comprised of 14,446 cases. The cohort included 12,053 (83.4%) immunotherapy and 2393 (16.6%) chemotherapy cases. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, factors significantly associated with immunotherapy receipt included population density, circle distance, year of diagnosis, Breslow thickness, and cancer stage. Immunotherapy timing was evaluated using multivariable Cox regression analysis. Minorities were less likely to receive timely immunotherapy than non-Hispanic Whites (HR 0.83, CI 0.74-0.93, p = 0.001). Patients at circle distances of 10-49 miles (HR 0.94, CI 0.89-0.99, p = 0.02) and ≥50 miles (HR 0.83, CI 0.77-0.90, p < 0.001) were less likely to receive timely immunotherapy. CONCLUSION Patients traveling ≥10 miles and minorities have a decreased likelihood of receiving timely immunotherapy administration for primary systemic treatment. Future research is needed to identify what barriers and approaches can be leveraged to address these inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lanyu Mi
- Department of Qualitative Health ScienceScottsdaleArizonaUSA
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Mutiu Alani J, Olaoye DQ, Adesina Abass AS. Adoption and use of immunotherapy in breast cancer management in Africa: barriers and prospect - a narrative review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:6041-6047. [PMID: 38098562 PMCID: PMC10718371 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001398] [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: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the world's most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, with 7.8 million women diagnosed with BC in the past 5 years. BC has the highest incidence rate of all cancers in women worldwide (1.67 million), accounting for over 500 000 deaths annually. In Africa, BC accounts for 28% of all cancers and 20% of all cancer deaths in women. The African continent has recorded an alarming increase in incidence, with the highest mortality rate globally. Despite BC being a major health concern in Africa, there is limited access to adequate healthcare services to combat the growing need. Immunotherapy, a promising treatment approach that harnesses the immune system's power to fight cancer, has shown great potential in BC management. However, in the face of the growing body of evidence supporting its effectiveness, the adoption and use of immunotherapy in BC management in Africa remain limited. Hence, this review aimed to explore the barriers and prospects of immunotherapy adoption and use in BC management in Africa. A comprehensive search across various databases and sources using specific keywords related to immunotherapy and BC to achieve the study aim was conducted. The criteria for including data in the study were based on relevance and availability in English, with no publication year restrictions. The collected data underwent narrative analysis, supplemented by information from sources like country reports, newsletters, commentaries, policy briefs, and direct Google searches. By identifying the challenges and opportunities, this review provided insights into how healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders can work together to improve the availability and accessibility of immunotherapy to BC patients in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimoh Mutiu Alani
- Radiation Oncology Department, College of Medicine
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan
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Adamson AS, Jackson BE, Baggett CD, Thomas NE, Haynes AB, Pignone MP. Association of Receipt of Systemic Treatment for Melanoma With Insurance Type in North Carolina. Med Care 2023; 61:829-835. [PMID: 37708348 PMCID: PMC10844879 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001921] [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: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies of hospital-based patients with metastatic melanoma suggest sociodemographic factors, including insurance type, may be associated with the receipt of systemic treatments. OBJECTIVES To examine whether insurance type is associated with the receipt of systemic treatment among patients with melanoma in a broad cohort of patients in North Carolina. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study between 2011 and 2017 of patients with stages III-IV melanoma using data from the North Carolina Central Cancer Registry linked to Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance claims across the state. The primary outcome was the receipt of any systemic treatment, and the secondary outcome was the receipt of immunotherapy. RESULTS A total of 372 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 68 years old (interquartile range: 56-76) and 61% were male. Within the cohort 48% had Medicare only, 29% had private insurance, 12% had both Medicare and Medicaid, and 11% had Medicaid only. A total of 186 (50%) patients received systemic treatment for melanoma, 125 (67%) of whom received immunotherapy. The use of systemic therapy, including immunotherapy, increased significantly over time. Having Medicaid-only insurance was independently associated with a 45% lower likelihood of receiving any systemic treatment [0.55 (95% CI: 0.35, 0.85)] and a 43% lower likelihood of receipt of immunotherapy [0.57 (95% CI: 0.34, 0.95)] compared with private insurance. CONCLUSIONS Stage III-IV melanoma patients with Medicaid-only insurance were less likely to receive systemic therapy or immunotherapy than patients with private insurance or Medicare insurance. This finding raises concerns about insurance-based disparities in treatment access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adewole S. Adamson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School,
University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes, The University of Texas at
Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bradford E. Jackson
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christopher D. Baggett
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nancy E. Thomas
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alex B. Haynes
- LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes, The University of Texas at
Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care, Dell Medical
School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Michael P. Pignone
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School,
University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes, The University of Texas at
Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Carvalho LAD, Aguiar FC, Smalley KSM, Possik PA. Acral melanoma: new insights into the immune and genomic landscape. Neoplasia 2023; 46:100947. [PMID: 37913653 PMCID: PMC10637990 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Acral melanoma is a rare subtype of melanoma that arises on the non-hair bearing skin of the nail bed, palms of the hand and soles of the feet. It is unique among melanomas in not being linked to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure from the sun, and, as such, its incidence is similar across populations who are of Asian, Hispanic, African and European origin. Although research into acral melanoma has lagged behind that of sun-exposed cutaneous melanoma, recent studies have begun to address the unique genetics and immune features of acral melanoma. In this review we will discuss the latest progress in understanding the biology of acral melanoma across different ethnic populations and will outline how these new discoveries can help to guide the therapeutic management of this rare tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Flavia C Aguiar
- Division of Basic and Experimental Research, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rua Andre Cavalcanti 37, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20231-050, Brazil
| | - Keiran S M Smalley
- Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612 USA.
| | - Patricia A Possik
- Division of Basic and Experimental Research, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rua Andre Cavalcanti 37, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20231-050, Brazil
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11
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Syrnioti G, Eden CM, Johnson JA, Alston C, Syrnioti A, Newman LA. Social Determinants of Cancer Disparities. Ann Surg Oncol 2023; 30:8094-8104. [PMID: 37723358 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14200-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a major public health issue that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality across the globe. At its root, cancer represents a genetic aberration, but socioeconomic, environmental, and geographic factors contribute to different cancer outcomes for selected population subsets. The disparities in the delivery of healthcare affect all aspects of cancer management from early prevention to end-of-life care. In an effort to address the inequality in the delivery of healthcare among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, the World Health Organization defined social determinants of health (SDOH) as conditions in which people are born, live, work, and age. These factors play a significant role in the disproportionate cancer burden among different population groups. SDOH are associated with disparities in risk factor burden, screening modalities, diagnostic testing, treatment options, and quality of life of patients with cancer. The purpose of this article is to describe a more holistic and integrated approach to patients with cancer and address the disparities that are derived from their socioeconomic background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Syrnioti
- Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Surgery, One Brooklyn Health-Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Claire M Eden
- Department of Surgery New York Presbyterian Queens, Weill Cornell Medicine, Flushing, NY, USA
| | - Josh A Johnson
- Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chase Alston
- Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Antonia Syrnioti
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloníki, Greece
| | - Lisa A Newman
- Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Li M, Liao K, Nowakowska M, Wehner M, shih YCT. Disparity in initiation of checkpoint inhibitors among commercially insured and Medicare Advantage patients with metastatic melanoma. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2023; 29:1232-1241. [PMID: 37889870 PMCID: PMC10776259 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2023.29.11.1232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of advanced melanoma, but racial disparities in melanoma outcomes continue. These inequities are not fully explained by individual factors. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the associations of neighborhood factors with the use of ICIs in metastatic melanoma. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of commercially insured US adults with metastatic melanoma diagnosed between January 2011 and December 2020. We examined the associations between the county-level percentage of population from racial and ethnic minority groups and the time from metastatic melanoma diagnosis to initiating ICIs using Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for patient characteristics. RESULTS: We identified 4,052 patients with metastatic melanoma, of which 49% used ICIs. We found that the adoption of ICIs in a county declined with increasing minority quintile (quintile 1: 52.4%, quintile 2: 50.4%, quintile 3: 50.1%, quintile 4: 45.8%, and quintile 5: 44.7%). The delay in ICI initiation also went up as the percentage of minorities in a county increased (log-rank test P = 0.03). Compared with the lowest quintile, the adjusted hazard ratio of ICI initiation of the second, third, fourth, and highest minority quintile was 0.94 (95% CI = 0.81-1.08), 0.88 (95% CI = 0.76-1.02), 0.81 (95% CI = 0.68-0.97), and 0.77 (95% CI = 0.66-0.91), respectively. Secondary analysis revealed that the slower initiation was driven by the counties with the highest percentage of Hispanic population (hazard ratio = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.61-0.89) in both Cox models and sensitivity analyses. High-minority counties correlated with metro areas, higher poverty levels, and a greater number of medical oncologists. CONCLUSIONS: We found that patients with metastatic melanoma living in counties with higher proportion of minorities, particularly of Hispanic origin, are more likely to experience delays in ICI treatment. This study provides important population-level data on neighborhood-level disparity in medication use. More research is needed on the underlying provider- and system-level factors that directly contributed to the lower use of cancer medicines in high-minority areas, which can help inform the development of evidence-based medication use strategies that can improve health outcomes and equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Health Services Research, Houston
| | - Kaiping Liao
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Health Services Research, Houston
| | | | - Mackenzie Wehner
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Health Services Research, Houston
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Dermatology, Houston
| | - Ya-Chen Tina shih
- University of California Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center
- University of California Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology
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13
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Rose MA, Miura J, Sharon C, Ermer JP, Karakousis G, Wachtel H. Current Patterns of Treatment and Outcomes in Advanced Melanoma at a Single Institution. J Surg Res 2023; 291:25-33. [PMID: 37331189 PMCID: PMC10524477 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.05.024] [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: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment of advanced melanoma has been transformed by novel systemic therapies. The purpose of this study is to describe the current utilization patterns of immunotherapies with respect to survival outcomes in advanced melanoma. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with Stage 3 and 4 melanoma at our institution (2009-2019). Primary outcomes included overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis evaluated associations between covariates and survival outcomes. RESULTS Of 244 patients, 5-y OS was 62.4%. Lymphovascular invasion (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.462, P = 0.030) was associated with shorter PFS whereas female gender (HR = 0.324, P = 0.010) was associated with longer PFS. Residual tumor (HR = 146, P = 0.006) and Stage 4 disease (HR = 3.349, P = 0.011) were associated with shorter OS. Use of immunotherapy increased from 2% to 23% over the study period, and use of neoadjuvant immunotherapy also increased up to 2016. Timing of immunotherapy administration was not significantly associated with survival. Of the 193 patients who received 2 or more treatment types, the most common treatment sequence was surgery followed by immunotherapy (n = 117, 60.6%). CONCLUSIONS Immunotherapy is increasingly used for treatment of advanced melanoma. In this heterogeneous cohort, there was no significant association between timing of immunotherapy and survival outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A Rose
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - John Miura
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania; Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Cimarron Sharon
- Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jae P Ermer
- Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Giorgos Karakousis
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania; Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Heather Wachtel
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania; Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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An J, Ferrante JM, Macenat M, Ganesan S, Hudson SV, Omene C, Garcia H, Kinney AY. Promoting informed approaches in precision oncology and clinical trial participation for Black patients with cancer: Community-engaged development and pilot testing of a digital intervention. Cancer 2023. [PMID: 37837177 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black patients with cancer are less likely to receive precision cancer treatments than White patients and are underrepresented in clinical trials. To address these disparities, the study aimed to develop and pilot-test a digital intervention to improve Black patients' knowledge about precision oncology and clinical trials, empower patients to increase relevant discussion, and promote informed decision-making. METHODS A community-engaged approach, including a Community Advisory Board and two rounds of key informant interviews with Black patients with cancer, their relatives, and providers (n = 48) was used to develop and refine the multimedia digital intervention. Thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data. The intervention was then pilot-tested with 30 Black patients with cancer to assess feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness, knowledge, decision self-efficacy, and patient empowerment; Wilcoxon matched pairs signed-rank test was used to analyze quantitative data. RESULTS The digital tool was found to be feasible, acceptable, and culturally appropriate. Key informants shared their preferences and recommendations for the digital intervention and helped improve cultural appropriateness through user and usability testing. In the pilot test, appreciable improvement was found in participants' knowledge about precision oncology (z = -2.04, p = .052), knowledge about clinical trials (z = -3.14, p = .001), and decisional self-efficacy for targeted/immune therapy (z = -1.96, p = .0495). CONCLUSIONS The digital intervention could be a promising interactive decision-support tool for increasing Black patients' participation in clinical trials and receipt of precision treatments, including immunotherapy. Its use in clinical practice may reduce disparities in oncology care and research. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY We developed a digital interactive decision support tool for Black patients with cancer by convening a Community Advisory Board and conducting interviews with Black patients with cancer, their relatives, and providers. We then pilot-tested the intervention with newly diagnosed Black patients with cancer and found appreciable improvement in participants' knowledge about precision oncology, knowledge about clinical trials, and confidence in making decisions for targeted/immune therapy. Our digital tool has great potential to be an affordable and scalable solution for empowering and educating Black patients with cancer to help them make informed decisions about precision oncology and clinical trials and ultimately reducing racial disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua An
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanne M Ferrante
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Myneka Macenat
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Shridar Ganesan
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Shawna V Hudson
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Coral Omene
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Harold Garcia
- Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Anita Y Kinney
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- School of Public Health, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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15
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Gamble C, Woodard TJ, Yakubu AI, Chapman-Davis E. An Intervention-Based Approach to Achieve Racial Equity in Gynecologic Oncology. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:957-966. [PMID: 37678907 PMCID: PMC10510810 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Racial inequities within gynecologic oncology exist at every step of the cancer continuum. Although the disparities have been well described, there is a significant gap in the literature focused on eliminating inequities in gynecologic cancer outcomes. The goal of this narrative review is to highlight successful, evidence-based interventions from within and outside of gynecologic oncology that alleviate disparity, providing a call to action for further research and implementation efforts within the field. These solutions are organized in the socioecologic framework, where multiple levels of influence-societal, community, organizational, interpersonal, and individual-affect health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Gamble
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, and Georgetown University, Washington, DC; the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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16
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Ramkumar SP, Bhardwaj A, Patel A, Seetharaman K, Christman A, Amondikar N, Abouelella DK, Hussaini AS, Barnes JM, Adjei Boakye E, Watts TL, Osazuwa-Peters N. Differences in Receipt of Immunotherapy Treatment Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 149:912-918. [PMID: 37651149 PMCID: PMC10472266 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2023.2420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Importance The US Food and Drug Administration approved immune checkpoint inhibitors (immunotherapy) for select cases of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in 2016. However, it is unclear whether there are clinical or sociodemographic differences among patients receiving immunotherapy as part of their care. Given the known disparities in head and neck cancer care, we hypothesized that there are differences in receipt of immunotherapy among patients with HNSCC based on clinical and nonclinical characteristics. Objective To characterize clinical and nonclinical factors associated with receipt of immunotherapy among older patients with HNSCC. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study included patients 65 years or older diagnosed with HNSCC (n = 4860) in a community oncology care setting. Electronic health records from Navigating Cancer were assessed from January 1, 2017, to April 30, 2022. Main Outcomes and Measures Multivariable logistic regression was used to characterize clinical (tumor stage [localized vs advanced] and anatomical subsite [oropharyngeal vs nonoropharyngeal]) and nonclinical (age, smoking history, race and ethnicity, sex, and marital status) factors associated with receipt of immunotherapy. Results In the study cohort of 4860 patients, 3593 (73.9%) were men; 4230 (87.0%) were White and 630 (13.0%) were of other races. A total of 552 patients (11.4%) had received immunotherapy. After adjusting for covariates, in the final model, White patients with HNSCC had 80% increased odds of receiving immunotherapy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.80 [95% CI, 1.30-2.48]) compared with patients of other races. There were no statistically significant differences in the odds of receiving immunotherapy based on age, sex, or smoking history. Patients with nonoropharyngeal disease were significantly more likely to receive immunotherapy than those with oropharyngeal cancer (AOR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.05-1.59]), as were those with advanced compared with local disease (AOR, 2.39 [95% CI, 1.71-3.34]). Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this cohort study suggest that among older patients with HNSCC, White patients may be more likely to receive immunotherapy as part of their care. Equitable access to immunotherapy and other treatment options will reduce cancer-related health disparities and improve survival of patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya P. Ramkumar
- currently a medical student at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Dina K. Abouelella
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Adnan S. Hussaini
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Justin M. Barnes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Eric Adjei Boakye
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Tammara L. Watts
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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17
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Moore AM, Nooruddin Z, Reveles KR, Koeller JM, Whitehead JM, Franklin K, Datta P, Alkadimi M, Brannman L, Cotarla I, Frankart AJ, Mulrooney T, Jones X, Frei CR. Health Equity in Patients Receiving Durvalumab for Unresectable Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in the US Veterans Health Administration. Oncologist 2023; 28:804-811. [PMID: 37335901 PMCID: PMC10485300 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Real-world evidence is limited regarding the relationship between race and use of durvalumab, an immunotherapy approved for use in adults with unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) post-chemoradiotherapy (CRT). This study aimed to evaluate if durvalumab treatment patterns differed by race in patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC in a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) population. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of White and Black adults with unresectable stage III NSCLC treated with durvalumab presenting to any VHA facility in the US from January 1, 2017, to June 30, 2020. Data captured included baseline characteristics and durvalumab treatment patterns, including treatment initiation delay (TID), interruption (TI), and discontinuation (TD); defined as CRT completion to durvalumab initiation greater than 42 days, greater than 28 days between durvalumab infusions, and more than 28 days from the last durvalumab dose with no new durvalumab restarts, respectively. The number of doses, duration of therapy, and adverse events were also collected. RESULTS A total of 924 patients were included in this study (White = 726; Black = 198). Race was not a significant factor in a multivariate logistic regression model for TID (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.81-2.37), TI (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.90-2.76), or TD (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.50-1.38). There were also no significant differences in median (interquartile range [IQR]) number of doses (White: 15 [7-24], Black: 18 [7-25]; P = .25) or median (IQR) duration of therapy (White: 8.7 months [2.9-11.8], Black: 9.8 months [3.6-12.0]; P = .08), although Black patients were less likely to experience an immune-related adverse event (28% vs. 36%, P = .03) and less likely to experience pneumonitis (7% vs. 14%, P < .01). CONCLUSION Race was not found to be linked with TID, TI, or TD in this real-world study of patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC treated with durvalumab at the VHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Moore
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Zohra Nooruddin
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kelly R Reveles
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jim M Koeller
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer M Whitehead
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen Franklin
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Paromita Datta
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Munaf Alkadimi
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lance Brannman
- Oncology Business Unit, Global Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Ion Cotarla
- Oncology Business Unit, US Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Andrew J Frankart
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Tiernan Mulrooney
- Oncology Business Unit, US Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Xavier Jones
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Christopher R Frei
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Research Service, Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital Division, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Brunsgaard EK, Jensen J, Grossman D. Melanoma in skin of color: Part II. Racial disparities, role of UV, and interventions for earlier detection. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 89:459-468. [PMID: 35533770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.04.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite a higher incidence of melanoma among White individuals, melanoma-specific survival is worse among individuals with skin of color. Racial disparities in survival are multifactorial. Decreased skin cancer education focused on people with skin of color, lower rates of screening, increased socioeconomic barriers, higher proportions of more aggressive subtypes, and underrepresentation in research and professional education contribute to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Although high, intermittent UV exposure during childhood has been established as a significant modifiable risk factor for melanoma in individuals with lighter skin phototypes, there are limited data on UV exposure and melanoma risk in people with darker skin phototypes. The second article of this continuing medical education series will examine factors contributing to racial disparities in melanoma-specific survival, discuss the role of UV radiation, and address the need for further research and targeted educational interventions for melanoma in individuals with skin of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise K Brunsgaard
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jakob Jensen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Communication, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Douglas Grossman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Dermatology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah.
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19
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Olateju OA, Zeng Z, Thornton JD, Mgbere O, Essien EJ. Management of metastatic melanoma in Texas: disparities in the utilization of immunotherapy following the regulatory approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:655. [PMID: 37442992 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11142-4] [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: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utilization of modern-immunotherapies, notably immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has increased markedly in patients with metastatic melanoma over the past decade and are recommended as standard treatment. Given their increasing adoption in routine care for melanoma, understanding patient access to immunotherapy and patterns of its use in Texas is crucial as it remains one of the few states without Medicaid expansion and with high rates of the uninsured population. The objectives of this study were to examine the trend in the utilization of immunotherapy and to determine factors associated with immunotherapy utilization among patients with metastatic melanoma in the era of ICIs in Texas. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Texas Cancer Registry (TCR) database. The cohort comprised of adult (≥ 18 years) patients with metastatic melanoma diagnosed between June 2011 and December 2018. The trend in immunotherapy utilization was assessed by determining the proportion of patients receiving immunotherapy each year. The Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) in immunotherapy utilization was assessed using joinpoint regression, while multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between patient characteristics and immunotherapy receipt. RESULTS A total of 1,795 adult patients with metastatic melanoma were identified from the TCR. Immunotherapy utilization was higher among younger patients, those with no comorbidities, and patients with private insurance. Multivariable analysis showed that the likelihood of receipt of immunotherapy decreased with older age [(adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR), 0.92; 95% CI, 0.89- 0.93, p = 0.001], living in high poverty neighborhood (aOR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.44 - 0.66, p < 0.0001), having Medicaid (aOR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.44 - 0.73, p = 0.02), being uninsured (aOR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.31 - 0.64, p = 0.01), and having comorbidities (CCI score 1: aOR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.34 - 0.71, p = 0.003; CCI score ≥ 2: aOR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.16 - 0.56, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This cohort study identified sociodemographic and socioeconomic disparities in access to immunotherapy in Texas, highlighting the need for policies such as Medicaid expansion that would increase equitable access to this innovative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olajumoke A Olateju
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J Douglas Thornton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Osaro Mgbere
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Institute of Community Health, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA
- Public Health Science and Surveillance Division, Houston Health Department, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ekere James Essien
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
- Institute of Community Health, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA.
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20
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Aleynick M, Svensson-Arvelund J, Pantsulaia G, Kim K, Rose SA, Upadhyay R, Yellin M, Marsh H, Oreper D, Jhunjhunwala S, Moussion CC, Merad M, Brown BD, Brody JD. Pattern recognition receptor agonists in pathogen vaccines mediate antitumor T-cell cross-priming. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007198. [PMID: 37487664 PMCID: PMC10373699 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer immunotherapies are generally effective in patients whose tumors contain a priori primed T-cells reactive to tumor antigens (TA). One approach to prime TA-reactive T-cells is to administer immunostimulatory molecules, cells, or pathogens directly to the tumor site, that is, in situ vaccination (ISV). We recently described an ISV using Flt3L to expand and recruit dendritic cells (DC), radiotherapy to load DC with TA, and pattern recognition receptor agonists (PRRa) to activate TA-loaded DC. While ISV trials using synthetic PRRa have yielded systemic tumor regressions, the optimal method to activate DCs is unknown. METHODS To discover optimal DC activators and increase access to clinical grade reagents, we assessed whether viral or bacterial components found in common pathogen vaccines are an effective source of natural PRRa (naPRRa). Using deep profiling (155-metric) of naPRRa immunomodulatory effects and gene editing of specific PRR, we defined specific signatures and molecular mechanisms by which naPRRa potentiate T-cell priming. RESULTS We observed that vaccine naPRRa can be even more potent in activating Flt3L-expanded murine and human DCs than synthetic PRRa, promoting cross-priming of TA-reactive T-cells. We developed a mechanistically diverse naPRRa combination (BCG, PedvaxHIB, Rabies) and noted more potent T-cell cross-priming than with any single naPRRa. The naPRRa triplet-as part of Flt3L-primed ISV-induced greater intratumoral CD8 T-cell infiltration, T-cells reactive to a newly defined tumorous neoantigen, durable tumor regressions. CONCLUSIONS This work provides rationale for the translation of pathogen vaccines as FDA-approved clinical-grade DC activators which could be exploited as immune-stimulants for early phase trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Aleynick
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Judit Svensson-Arvelund
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gvantsa Pantsulaia
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kristy Kim
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Samuel A Rose
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ranjan Upadhyay
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Henry Marsh
- Celldex Therapeutics Inc, Hampton, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | | | - Miriam Merad
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brian D Brown
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Joshua D Brody
- Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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21
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Disis ML, Adams SF, Bajpai J, Butler MO, Curiel T, Dodt SA, Doherty L, Emens LA, Friedman CF, Gatti-Mays M, Geller MA, Jazaeri A, John VS, Kurnit KC, Liao JB, Mahdi H, Mills A, Zsiros E, Odunsi K. Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) clinical practice guideline on immunotherapy for the treatment of gynecologic cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006624. [PMID: 37295818 PMCID: PMC10277149 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced gynecologic cancers have historically lacked effective treatment options. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of cervical cancer and endometrial cancer, offering durable responses for some patients. In addition, many immunotherapy strategies are under investigation for the treatment of earlier stages of disease or in other gynecologic cancers, such as ovarian cancer and rare gynecologic tumors. While the integration of ICIs into the standard of care has improved outcomes for patients, their use requires a nuanced understanding of biomarker testing, treatment selection, patient selection, response evaluation and surveillance, and patient quality of life considerations, among other topics. To address this need for guidance, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to develop a clinical practice guideline. The Expert Panel drew on the published literature as well as their own clinical experience to develop evidence- and consensus-based recommendations to provide guidance to cancer care professionals treating patients with gynecologic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary L Disis
- Cancer Vaccine Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sarah F Adams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jyoti Bajpai
- Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Marcus O Butler
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Hospital Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tyler Curiel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock's Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | | | - Laura Doherty
- Program in Women's Oncology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Leisha A Emens
- Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Claire F Friedman
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Margaret Gatti-Mays
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Melissa A Geller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amir Jazaeri
- Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Veena S John
- Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, New York, USA
| | - Katherine C Kurnit
- University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - John B Liao
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Haider Mahdi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anne Mills
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Emese Zsiros
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Kunle Odunsi
- The University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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22
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Gupta A, Omeogu C, Islam JY, Joshi A, Zhang D, Braithwaite D, Karanth SD, Tailor TD, Clarke JM, Akinyemiju T. Socioeconomic disparities in immunotherapy use among advanced-stage non-small cell lung cancer patients: analysis of the National Cancer Database. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8190. [PMID: 37210410 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Socioeconomic and racial disparities exist in access to care among patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the United States. Immunotherapy is a widely established treatment modality for patients with advanced-stage NSCLC (aNSCLC). We examined associations of area-level socioeconomic status with receipt of immunotherapy for aNSCLC patients by race/ethnicity and cancer facility type (academic and non-academic). We used the National Cancer Database (2015-2016), and included patients aged 40-89 years who were diagnosed with stage III-IV NSCLC. Area-level income was defined as the median household income in the patient's zip code, and area-level education was defined as the proportion of adults aged ≥ 25 years in the patient's zip code without a high school degree. We calculated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using multi-level multivariable logistic regression. Among 100,298 aNSCLC patients, lower area-level education and income were associated with lower odds of immunotherapy treatment (education: aOR 0.71; 95% CI 0.65, 0.76 and income: aOR 0.71; 95% CI 0.66, 0.77). These associations persisted for NH-White patients. However, among NH-Black patients, we only observed an association with lower education (aOR 0.74; 95% CI 0.57, 0.97). Across all cancer facility types, lower education and income were associated with lower immunotherapy receipt among NH-White patients. However, among NH-Black patients, this association only persisted with education for patients treated at non-academic facilities (aOR 0.70; 95% CI 0.49, 0.99). In conclusion, aNSCLC patients residing in areas of lower educational and economic wealth were less likely to receive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Gupta
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Chioma Omeogu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Jessica Y Islam
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
- Cancer Epidemiology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ashwini Joshi
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Dongyu Zhang
- Johnson and Johnson, Medical Device Epidemiology, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Shama D Karanth
- Institute on Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Tina D Tailor
- Department of Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Clarke
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tomi Akinyemiju
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.
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23
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Rosenthal A, Reddy S, Cooper R, Chung J, Zhang J, Haque R, Kim C. Disparities in melanoma-specific mortality by race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and health care systems. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 88:560-567. [PMID: 36228942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite encouraging trends in survival, sociodemographic inequalities persist among patients with melanoma. OBJECTIVE We sought to quantify the effect of race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and health care systems on melanoma-specific mortality within an insured population of patients. METHODS Using a retrospective cohort study, we identified insured adults diagnosed with Stage I to IV melanoma from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2014, followed through 2017, from the California Cancer Registry. We compared melanoma-specific mortality between insured patients diagnosed within the largest vertically integrated health care system in California, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, and insured patients with other private insurance (OPI). RESULTS Our cohort included 14,614 adults diagnosed with melanoma. Multivariable analyses demonstrated that race/ethnicity was not associated with survival disparities, while socioeconomic status was a strong predictor of melanoma-specific mortality, particularly for those with OPI. For example, hazard ratios demonstrate that the poorest patients with OPI have a 70% increased risk of dying from their melanoma compared to their wealthiest counterparts, while the poorest patients in Kaiser Permanente Southern California have no increased risk. LIMITATIONS Our main limitation includes inadequate data for certain racial/ethnic groups, such as Native Americans. CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the persistence of socioeconomic disparities within an insured population, specifically among those in non-integrated health care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rosenthal
- Department of Dermatology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Shivani Reddy
- California Skin Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Robert Cooper
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Joanie Chung
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Reina Haque
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Los Angeles, California; Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Christina Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
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24
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King ALO, Lee V, Yu B, Mirza FN, Zogg CK, Yang DX, Tran T, Leventhal J, An Y. Factors associated with the use of adjuvant radiation therapy in stage III melanoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1005930. [PMID: 36816935 PMCID: PMC9929351 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1005930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The role of radiation therapy (RT) in melanoma has historically been limited to palliative care, with surgery as the primary treatment modality. However, adjuvant RT can be a powerful tool in certain cases and its application in melanoma has been increasingly explored in recent years. The aim of this study is to explore national patterns of care and associations surrounding the use of adjuvant RT for stage III melanoma. Methods The National Cancer Data Base (NCDB) was used to identify patients who were diagnosed with stage III melanoma between 2004 and 2014. Exclusion criteria included those with distant metastatic disease, in-situ histology, no confirmed positive nodes, palliative intent therapy, and dosing regimens inconsistent with National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for adjuvant RT in melanoma. Patients treated with and without adjuvant RT were compared and factors associated with use of adjuvant RT were identified using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results A total of 7,758 cases of stage III melanoma were analyzed, of which 11.7% received adjuvant RT. The mean age of the overall cohort was 58.5 years, and the majority of patients were male (64.7%), white (96.6%), on private insurance (51.3%), and presented to a non-high-volume facility (90.3%). Multivariable regression analyses revealed that patients who present to the hospital in 2009-2014 as compared to 2004-2008 (odds ratio [OR] 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36-1.92), had 4 or more positive nodes (OR 4.30, 95% CI 3.67-5.04), and had microscopic residual tumor (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.46-3.04) were more likely to receive adjuvant RT. Factors that were negatively associated with receiving adjuvant RT included female gender (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.61-0.85) and median income of at least $63,000 (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.52-0.83). Conclusions This study demonstrates the rising use of RT for stage III melanoma in recent years and identifies demographic, social, clinical, and hospital-specific factors associated with patients receiving adjuvant RT. Further investigation is needed to explore disease benefits to improve guidance on the utilization of RT in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. O. King
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Victor Lee
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Beverly Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Fatima N. Mirza
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Cheryl K. Zogg
- Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Daniel X. Yang
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Thuy Tran
- Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jonathan Leventhal
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Yi An
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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25
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Liu M, Li W, Ma X, Che Y, Wei B, Chen M, Zhong L, Zhao S, Chen A, Pang Y, Zeng J, Guo J. Gradient differences of immunotherapy efficacy in metastatic melanoma related to sunlight exposure pattern: A population-based study. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1086664. [PMID: 36686834 PMCID: PMC9850161 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1086664] [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: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized metastatic melanoma (MM) treatment in just a few years. Ultraviolet (UV) in sunlight is the most significant environmental cause of melanoma, which is considered to be the main reason for tumor mutation burden (TMB) increase in melanoma. High TMB usually predicts that PD-1 inhibitors are effective. The sunlight exposure pattern of MM might be a clinical feature that matches TMB. The relationship between sunlight exposure patterns and immunotherapy response in MM is unclear. This study aims to investigate the correlation between sunlight exposure patterns and immunotherapy response in MM and establish nomograms that predict 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) rate. Methods We searched the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and enrolled MM cases from 2005-2016. According to the advent of ICIs in 2011, the era was divided into the non-ICIs era (2005-2010) and the ICIs era (2011-2016). Patients were divided into three cohorts according to the primary site sunlight exposure patterns: head and neck in the first cohort, trunk arms and legs in the second cohort, and acral sites in the third cohort. We compared survival differences for each cohort between the two eras, performed stratified analysis, established nomograms for predicting 3- and 5-year OS rate, and performed internal validation. Results Comparing the survival difference between the ICIs and non-ICIs era, head and neck melanoma showed the greatest improvement in survival, with 3- and 5-year OS rate increasing by 10.2% and 9.1%, respectively (P=0.00011). In trunk arms and legs melanoma, the 3- and 5-year OS rate increased by 4.6% and 3.9%, respectively (P<0.0001). There is no improvement in survival in acral melanoma (AM) between the two eras (P=0.78). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under the ROC curve (AUC) and calibration graphs show good discrimination and accuracy of nomograms. Decision curve analysis (DCA) suggests good clinical utility of nomograms. Conclusions Based on the classification of sunlight exposure patterns, there is a gradient difference in immunotherapy efficacy for MM. The degree of sunlight exposure is positively correlated with immunotherapy response. The nomograms are sufficiently accurate to predict 3- and 5-year OS rate for MM, allowing for individualized clinical decisions for future clinical work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengsong Liu
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenyuan Li
- Sichuan Evidence-Based Medicine Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhui Che
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Wei
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mulan Chen
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Zhong
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Siqi Zhao
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Anjing Chen
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaobin Pang
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
| | - Jing Guo
- Dermatological Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
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26
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Adhikari A, Cha E, Antala D, Sapkota S, Bhattarai U. Changes in the survival of adult patients with metastasized melanoma with the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors: A retrospective study from the United States database. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 81:102254. [PMID: 36162155 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Ipilimumab and Ipilimumab-Nivolumab combination therapies were approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2011 and 2015, respectively. We aimed to evaluate potential changes in the survival of patients with metastatic melanoma following the approval of these agents. METHODS We extracted data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (Nov 2021 submission). All patients aged 20 and above who were diagnosed with 'distant' melanoma (per 'combined summary stage') from 2007 through 2018 were included in the study. This time period was further sub-categorized into 2007-2010 (pre-ICI era), 2011-2014 (single-agent ICI era), and 2015-2018 (combination ICI era) based on the approval timeline of ICI. RESULTS The median overall survival (OS) was 8, 10, and 14 months in the pre-ICI, single-agent ICI, and combination ICI eras respectively (log-rank test, χ² = 189.03, p < 0.001). On Cox-proportional hazard analysis, patients diagnosed in the single-agent and combination ICI eras had a significantly lower risk of dying [HR 0.82 (95% CI 0.78-0.87) and 0.67 (0.64-0.71), respectively] compared to patients diagnosed in the pre-ICI era. Patients who were of the male gender, aged ≥ 65 years, and those receiving chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy were at a significantly higher risk of dying. Married individuals had a significantly lower risk of dying compared to patients who were divorced, separated, or widowed at the time of diagnosis. There was no significant difference in survival demonstrated among non-Hispanic blacks versus non-Hispanic whites. CONCLUSION Survival of patients with metastatic melanoma has improved in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors. It implies that the survival of patients reported in trials can be correlated at a population level as well. Future analysis from the SEER database is needed when new data becomes available to see if there is a further increase in OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjab Adhikari
- Ascension Saint Francis Hospital, 355 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA.
| | - Elaine Cha
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Drashti Antala
- Ascension Saint Francis Hospital, 355 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA.
| | - Supriya Sapkota
- Ascension Saint Francis Hospital, 355 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60202, USA.
| | - Utsuk Bhattarai
- Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, 8200 Walnut Hl Ln, Dallas, TX 75231, USA.
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27
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Brown-Korsah JB, McKenzie S, Omar D, Syder NC, Elbuluk N, Taylor SC. Variations in genetics, biology, and phenotype of cutaneous disorders in skin of color - Part I: Genetic, biologic, and structural differences in skin of color. J Am Acad Dermatol 2022; 87:1239-1258. [PMID: 35809800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.06.1193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Skin of color (SOC) populations include those who identify as Black/African, Hispanic/Latinx, Asian/Pacific Islander, American Indian/Native Alaskan, Indigenous Australian, Middle Eastern, biracial/multiracial, or non-White; this list is far from exhaustive and may vary between and within cultures. Recent genetic and immunological studies have suggested that cutaneous inflammatory disorders (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa) and malignancies (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma) may have variations in their immunophenotype among SOC. Additionally, there is growing recognition of the substantial role social determinants of health play in driving health inequalities in SOC communities. It is critically important to understand that social determinants of health often play a larger role than biologic or genetic factors attributed to "race" in health care outcomes. Herein, we describe the structural, genetic, and immunological variations and the potential implications of these variations in populations with SOC. This article underscores the importance of increasing the number of large, robust genetic studies of cutaneous disorders in SOC to create more targeted, effective therapies for this often underserved and understudied population. Part II of this CME will highlight the clinical differences in the phenotypic presentation of and the health disparities associated with the aforementioned cutaneous disorders in SOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica B Brown-Korsah
- Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Shanice McKenzie
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Deega Omar
- Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Nicole C Syder
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Nada Elbuluk
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Susan C Taylor
- Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Fabregas JC, Carter BT, Lutzky J, Robinson WR, Brant JM. Impact of Medicaid Expansion Status and Race on Metastatic Disease at Diagnosis in Patients with Melanoma. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022; 9:2291-2299. [PMID: 34648145 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-01166-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black patients are diagnosed with melanoma at a later stage, as compared with their white counterparts. It is unknown if Medicaid expansion might ameliorate this disparity. METHODS Using data from the 2016 National Cancer Database, we conducted a retrospective cohort study. The primary objective was to evaluate whether being diagnosed with melanoma at a Medicaid Expansion State (MES) and black race are associated with a late diagnosis of melanoma. Main exposure: Being diagnosed in a MES. Secondary exposure: Race. Main outcome: Odds of Stage IV vs Stages 0-III at diagnosis. Univariate, multivariate logistic regression, and propensity score analyses were conducted to evaluate the potential associations. Sub-group analysis was conducted according to age < 65 or ≥ 65 years. RESULTS A total of 216,604 patients were included, 40-90 years of age, [Formula: see text] 64 years [SD 12.47]. In univariate analysis, patients diagnosed in MES were 15% less likely (95% CI, 0.81-0.88) to be diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma. Black race (vs white) had 3.04 increased odds (95% CI, 2.56-3.60) of late diagnosis. In multivariate analysis, adjusting for socio-economic confounders, patients < 65 years of age were 13% less likely (95% CI, 0.82-0.92) to be diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma. By propensity score analysis, the strength of the associations remained. Black race (vs white) was associated with higher odds (95% CI, 1.91-3.08) of being diagnosed with Stage IV disease. For black patients < 65 years, being diagnosed in a state without Medicaid expansion had 2.55 higher odds (95% CI, 1.93-3.38) of being diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma, which decreased to 2.11 odds (95% CI, 1.34-3.33) in MES. The interaction between race and MES was statistically significant (P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that patients are less likely to be diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma in MES. This beneficial effect is more pronounced among Black minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus C Fabregas
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, D2-3, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Benjamin T Carter
- Billings Clinic, 2800 Tenth Avenue North, Billings, MT, 59107, USA.,Collaborative Science & Innovation, 2800 Tenth Avenue North, Billings, MT, 59101, USA
| | - Jose Lutzky
- University of Miami - Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1475 NW Ave, Floor 2, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - William Russell Robinson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, J2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Jeannine M Brant
- Billings Clinic, 2800 Tenth Avenue North, Billings, MT, 59107, USA.
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Svensson-Arvelund J, Cuadrado-Castano S, Pantsulaia G, Kim K, Aleynick M, Hammerich L, Upadhyay R, Yellin M, Marsh H, Oreper D, Jhunjhunwala S, Moussion C, Merad M, Brown BD, García-Sastre A, Brody JD. Expanding cross-presenting dendritic cells enhances oncolytic virotherapy and is critical for long-term anti-tumor immunity. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7149. [PMID: 36418317 PMCID: PMC9684150 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34791-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies directly enhancing anti-tumor CD8+ T cell responses have yielded measurable but limited success, highlighting the need for alternatives. Anti-tumor T cell responses critically depend on antigen presenting dendritic cells (DC), and enhancing mobilization, antigen loading and activation of these cells represent an attractive possibility to potentiate T cell based therapies. Here we show that expansion of DCs by Flt3L administration impacts in situ vaccination with oncolytic Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV). Mechanistically, NDV activates DCs and sensitizes them to dying tumor cells through upregulation of dead-cell receptors and synergizes with Flt3L to promote anti-tumor CD8+ T cell cross-priming. In vivo, Flt3L-NDV in situ vaccination induces parallel amplification of virus- and tumor-specific T cells, including CD8+ T cells reactive to newly-described neoepitopes, promoting long-term tumor control. Cross-presenting conventional Type 1 DCs are indispensable for the anti-tumor, but not anti-viral, T cell response, and type I IFN-dependent CD4+ Th1 effector cells contribute to optimal anti-tumor immunity. These data demonstrate that mobilizing DCs to increase tumor antigen cross-presentation improves oncolytic virotherapy and that neoepitope-specific T cells can be induced without individualized, ex vivo manufactured vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Svensson-Arvelund
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, 582 25, Sweden.
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Sara Cuadrado-Castano
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Gvantsa Pantsulaia
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Kristy Kim
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Mark Aleynick
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow- Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, 13353, Germany
| | - Ranjan Upadhyay
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Henry Marsh
- Celldex Therapeutics, Inc, Needham, MA, 02494, USA
| | | | | | | | - Miriam Merad
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Brian D Brown
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Adolfo García-Sastre
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Global Health Emerging Pathogens Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Joshua D Brody
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Wang C, Onega T, Wang F. Multiscale analysis of cancer service areas in the United States. Spat Spatiotemporal Epidemiol 2022; 43:100545. [PMID: 36460451 DOI: 10.1016/j.sste.2022.100545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of delineating Cancer Service Areas (CSAs) is to define a reliable unit of analysis, more meaningful than geopolitical units such as states and counties, for examining geographic variations of the cancer care markets using geographic information systems (GIS). This study aims to provide a multiscale analysis of the U.S. cancer care markets based on the 2014-2015 Medicare claims of cancer-directed surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. The CSAs are delineated by a scale-flexible network community detection algorithm automated in GIS so that the patient flows are maximized within CSAs and minimized between them. The multiscale CSAs include those comparable in size to those 4 census regions, 9 divisions, 50 states, and also 39 global optimal CSAs that generates the highest modularity value. The CSAs are more effective in capturing the U.S. cancer care markets because of its higher localization index, lower cross-border utilizations, and shorter travel time. The first two comparisons reveal that only a few regions or divisions are representative of the underlying cancer care markets. The last two comparisons find that among the 39 CSAs, 54% CSAs comprise multiple states anchored by cities near inner state borders, 28% are single-state CSAs, and 18% are sub-state CSAs. Their (in)consistencies across state borders or within each state shed new light on where the intervention of cancer care delivery or the adjustment of cancer care costs are needed to meet the challenges in the U.S. cancer care system. The findings could guide stakeholders to target public health policies for more effective coordination of cancer care in improving outcomes and reducing unnecessary costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changzhen Wang
- Department of Geography, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, United States
| | - Tracy Onega
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - Fahui Wang
- The Graduate School and Department of Geography and Anthropology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, United States.
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31
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Kiuru M, Li Q, Zhu G, Terrell JR, Beroukhim K, Maverakis E, Keegan THM. Melanoma in women of childbearing age and in pregnancy in California, 1994-2015: a population-based cohort study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36:2025-2035. [PMID: 35870141 PMCID: PMC9560982 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18458] [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: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is one of the most common malignancies during pregnancy. There is debate regarding the impact of pregnancy on the prognosis of melanoma. Recent large population-based studies from the United States are lacking. OBJECTIVES To determine the characteristics and survival of women with pregnancy-associated melanoma. METHODS This population-based, retrospective cohort study used California Cancer Registry data linked with state-wide hospitalization and ambulatory surgery data to identify 15-44-year-old female patients diagnosed with melanoma in 1994-2015, including pregnant patients. Multivariable logistic regression compared demographic and clinical characteristics between pregnant and non-pregnant women with melanoma. Multivariable cox proportional hazards regression models assessed melanoma-specific and overall survival. RESULTS We identified 13 108 patients, of which 1406 were pregnant. Pregnancy-associated melanoma was more frequent in Hispanic compared to non-Hispanic White women. Melanoma occurring post-partum was associated with greater tumour thickness (2.01-4.00 vs. 0.01-1.00 mm, odds ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval: 1.03-2.98). There were otherwise no significant differences between pregnant and non-pregnant women. Worse survival was associated with Asian, Black and Native American race/ethnicity (vs. non-Hispanic White), lower neighbourhood socio-economic status, public insurance, tumour site, greater tumour thickness and lymph node involvement, but not pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Melanoma occurring post-partum was associated with greater tumour thickness, but pregnancy status did not affect survival after melanoma. Race/ethnicity, socio-economic status and health insurance impacted survival, emphasizing the importance of reducing health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kiuru
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Q Li
- Center for Oncology Hematology Outcomes Research and Training (COHORT) and Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - G Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - J R Terrell
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - K Beroukhim
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - E Maverakis
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - T H M Keegan
- Center for Oncology Hematology Outcomes Research and Training (COHORT) and Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Sariahmed K, Kurian J, Singh AK, Leyton C, Minuti A, Jerschow E, Arora S, Jariwala SP. Social, political, and economic determinants of access to biologics: A scoping review of structural determinants in the clinical disparities literature. Res Social Adm Pharm 2022; 18:4038-4047. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.07.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Riaz IB, Islam M, Khan AM, Naqvi SAA, Siddiqi R, Khakwani KZR, Asghar N, Ikram W, Hussain SA, Singh P, Warner JL, Sonpavde GP, Odedina FT, Kehl KL, Duma N, Bryce AH. Disparities in Representation of Women, Older Adults, and Racial/Ethnic Minorities in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Trials. Am J Med 2022; 135:984-992.e6. [PMID: 35483426 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aim to describe reporting and representation of minority patient populations in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) clinical trials and assess predictors of enrollment disparity. METHODS Trial-level data were acquired from eligible phase II and III trials. Population-based estimates were acquired from the SEER 18 and Global Burden of Disease incidence databases. Trials reporting race, age, and sex were summarized using descriptive statistics. Enrollment-incidence ratio (EIR) was used to assess representation of subgroups. Average annual percentage change (AAPC) in EIR was calculated using Joinpoint Regression Analysis. Trial-level characteristics associated with EIR were assessed using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS A total of 107 trials with 48,095 patients were identified. Participation of Black, White, Asian, Native American, Pacific Islander, and Hispanic participants was reported in 65 (61%), 77 (72%), 68 (64%), 40 (37%,) and 24 trials (22%), respectively. Subgroup analyses of clinical outcomes by race, age, and sex were reported in 17 (22%), 62 (78%), and 57 (57%) trials, respectively. Women (trial proportion [TP]: 32%; EIR: 0.90 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84-0.96]), patients aged ≥65 years (TP: 42%; EIR: 0.78 [95% CI: 0.72-0.84]), Black participants (TP: 1.9%; EIR: 0.17 [95% CI: 0.13-0.22]) and Hispanics (TP: 5.9%; EIR: 0.67 [95% CI: 0.53-0.82]) were underrepresented. Representation of Black patients decreased significantly from 2009 to 2020 (AAPC: -23.13). Black participants were significantly underrepresented in phase III trials (P < .001). CONCLUSION The reporting of participation by racial or ethnic subgroup categories is inadequate. Women, older adults, as well as Black and Hispanic participants are significantly underrepresented in ICI clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irbaz B Riaz
- Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz; Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; FL Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
| | - Mahnoor Islam
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Syed A Hussain
- University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
| | | | | | - Guru P Sonpavde
- FL Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | | | - Kenneth L Kehl
- FL Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Narjust Duma
- FL Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
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Ermer T, Canavan ME, Maduka RC, Li AX, Salazar MC, Kaminski MF, Pichert MD, Zhan PL, Mase V, Kluger H, Boffa DJ. Association Between Food and Drug Administration Approval and Disparities in Immunotherapy Use Among Patients With Cancer in the US. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2219535. [PMID: 35771575 PMCID: PMC9247736 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.19535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Clinical trials and compassionate use agreements provide selected patients with access to potentially life-saving treatments before approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Approval from the FDA decreases a number of access barriers; however, it is unknown whether FDA approval is associated with increases in the equitable use of novel therapies and reductions in disparities in use among patients with cancer in the US. OBJECTIVE To assess the association between FDA drug approval and disparities in the use of immunotherapy across health, sociodemographic, and socioeconomic strata before and after approval of the first checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of patients with cancer in the US. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used data from the National Cancer Database to examine the use of immunotherapy across health, sociodemographic, and socioeconomic strata before and after FDA approval of the first checkpoint inhibitor therapies. A total of 402 689 patients 20 years or older who were diagnosed with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC), or melanoma of the skin between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2018 (specific years varied by tumor type), were included. EXPOSURES Patient health (Charlson-Deyo comorbidity score and age), sociodemographic characteristics (sex, race, and ethnicity), and socioeconomic (insurance status and household income based on zip code of residence) characteristics. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The association of patient characteristics with receipt of immunotherapy was evaluated in the 4 years before and the 3 years immediately after FDA approval using multivariable logistic regression modeling. RESULTS Among 402 689 patients (median [IQR] age, 68 [60-76 years]; 225 081 men [55.9%]), 347 233 had NSCLC, 43 714 had RCC, and 11 742 patients had melanoma. A total of 47 527 patients (11.8%) were Black, 15 763 (3.9%) were Hispanic, 375 874 (93.3%) were non-Hispanic, 335 833 (83.4%) were White, and 16 553 (4.1%) were of other races. Before FDA approval, 6271 patients (3.2%) with NSCLC, 1155 patients (4.8%) with RCC, and 504 patients (8.6%) with melanoma received immunotherapy compared with 23 908 patients (15.6%) with NSCLC, 3890 patients (19.7%) with RCC, and 1143 patients (19.3%) with melanoma after FDA approval. Before FDA approval, sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics were associated with variable immunotherapy administration by tumor type. For example, among those with NSCLC, Black patients were less likely to receive immunotherapy than White patients (odds ratio [OR], 0.78; 95% CI ,0.71-0.85; P < .001); among those with RCC, uninsured patients were less likely to receive immunotherapy than privately insured patients (OR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.20-0.48; P < .001). After FDA approval, most disparities persisted, but several narrowed (eg, Black patients with NSCLC: OR, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.83-0.91; P < .001]; uninsured patients with RCC: OR, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.48-0.75; P < .001]). Although many disparities remained, some gaps across socioeconomic characteristics appeared to widen (eg, patients with NSCLC in the lowest vs highest income quartile: OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.76-0.83; P < .001), and new gaps emerged (eg, Black patients with RCC: OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.72-0.93; P = .003). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study, disparities in immunotherapy use existed across a number of sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics among patients with NSCLC, RCC, and melanoma before FDA approval, including during the important period when clinical trials were accruing patients. Although FDA approval was associated with a significant increase in the use of immunotherapy, gaps persisted, suggesting that FDA approval may not eliminate disparities in the use of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Ermer
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maureen E. Canavan
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Cancer Outcomes Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Richard C. Maduka
- Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Andrew X. Li
- Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | | | - Matthew D. Pichert
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Peter L. Zhan
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Vincent Mase
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Harriet Kluger
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Daniel J. Boffa
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Zakhem GA, Pulavarty AN, Lester JC, Stevenson ML. Skin Cancer in People of Color: A Systematic Review. Am J Clin Dermatol 2022; 23:137-151. [PMID: 34902111 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-021-00662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People of African, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, Pacific Islander, and Native Indian descent are considered people of color by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS). OBJECTIVES In this study, we assess incidence, risk factors, clinical characteristics, histopathology, treatment, and survival for skin malignancies in people of color as defined by the SOCS, by systematically reviewing the literature. METHODS An electronic literature search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE databases was performed. Articles published from 1 January 1990 through 12 December 2020 were included in the search. RESULTS We identified 2666 publications potentially meeting the study criteria. Titles and abstracts of these studies were reviewed and 2353 were excluded. The full text of 313 articles were evaluated and 251 were included in this review. CONCLUSION Differences in incidence, patterns, treatment, and survival exist among people of color for cutaneous malignancies. Further research and initiatives are needed to account for and mitigate these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Zakhem
- The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, 222 East 41st Street, 24th Floor, New York, NY, 10017, USA
| | - Akshay N Pulavarty
- The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, 222 East 41st Street, 24th Floor, New York, NY, 10017, USA
| | - Jenna C Lester
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mary L Stevenson
- The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, 222 East 41st Street, 24th Floor, New York, NY, 10017, USA.
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Abstract
Patients of colour predominately present with acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), the most lethal subtype of cutaneous melanoma. We here advocate for increased mechanistic studies using models derived from the patient communities suffering most from ALM to develop therapies that benefit patients across all ethnic and racial groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vito W Rebecca
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Shao K, Hooper J, Feng H. Racial/Ethnic Health Disparities in Dermatology in the United States Part 2: Disease-specific Epidemiology, Characteristics, Management, and Outcomes. J Am Acad Dermatol 2022; 87:733-744. [PMID: 35143915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.12.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Racial and ethnic disparities in dermatology negatively affect outcomes such as mortality and quality of life. Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons should be familiar with disease-specific inequities that may influence their practice. The second article in this two-part continuing medical education series highlights gaps in frequency, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes by race and ethnicity. We review cutaneous malignancies including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and cutaneous T cell lymphoma, and inflammatory disorders including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, acne vulgaris, and rosacea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Shao
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
| | - Jette Hooper
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT.
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Rendle KA, Beidas RS. Four strategic areas to advance equitable implementation of evidence-based practices in cancer care. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:1980-1988. [PMID: 34850931 PMCID: PMC8634319 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Rendle
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
| | - Rinad S Beidas
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Implementation Science Center at the Leonard Davis Institute (PISCE@LDI), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104,USA
- Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics (CHIBE), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Lam M, Zhu JW, Hu A, Beecker J. Racial Differences in the Prognosis and Survival of Cutaneous Melanoma From 1990 to 2020 in North America: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Cutan Med Surg 2021; 26:181-188. [PMID: 34676795 PMCID: PMC8950707 DOI: 10.1177/12034754211052866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Factors influencing the difference in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma in racial minority groups are well-described in the literature and include atypical presentations and socioeconomic factors that impede access to care. Objective To characterize the differences in melanoma survival outcomes between non-Hispanic white patients and ethnic minority patients in North America. Methods We conducted searches of Embase via Ovid and MEDLINE via Ovid of studies published from 1989 to August 5, 2020. We included observational studies in North America which reported crude or effect estimate data on patient survival with cutaneous melanoma stratified by race. Results Forty-four studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in this systematic review. Pooled analysis revealed that black patients were at a significantly increased risk for overall mortality (HR 1.42, 95% CI, 1.25-1.60), as well as for melanoma-specific mortality (HR 1.27, 95% CI, 1.03-1.56). Pooled analyses using a representative study for each database yielded similar trends. Other ethnic minorities were also more likely report lower melanoma-specific survival compared to non-Hispanic white patients. Conclusion Our results support findings that melanoma patients of ethnic minorities, particularly black patients, experience worse health outcomes with regards to mortality. Overall survival and melanoma-specific survival are significantly decreased in black patients compared to non-Hispanic white patients. With the advent of more effective, contemporary treatments such as immunotherapy, our review identifies a gap in the literature investigating present-day or prospective data on melanoma outcomes, in order to characterize how current racial differences compare to findings from previous decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Lam
- 12362 Faculty of Medicine, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jie Wei Zhu
- 12362 Faculty of Medicine, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Angie Hu
- 2129 Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Beecker
- Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, ON, Canada.,153195 The Ottawa Hospital, ON, Canada.,Ottawa Research Institute, ON, Canada.,Probity Medical Research Inc., Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Asare EA, Swami U, Stewart JH. Landmark Series on Disparities in Surgical Oncology: Melanoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:6986-6993. [PMID: 34191178 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-10273-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the lifetime risk of melanoma is disproportionately higher in whites, blacks have a poorer overall survival with an absolute survival difference of 25%. Significant progress has been made in melanoma treatment in the past decade; however, these successes may not be available or accessible to all segments of the population. METHODS In this review, we highlight important studies in melanoma as well as informative retrospective studies from databases and nonmelanoma cancers where appropriate. RESULTS There are no level I evidence-based studies on disparities in melanoma, and most likely there will never be, but the studies presented herein and clinical experience demonstrate that disparities in clinical outcomes from melanoma exists. CONCLUSIONS By becoming aware of the disparities, we can help mitigate them by engagement, education, and corrective and empowering actions through awareness campaigns, appropriate clinical trial design, encouraging participation in clinical trials, increasing the diversity of providers, and advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot A Asare
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Intermountain Healthcare Center, Murray, UT, USA
| | - Umang Swami
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Haque W, Verma V, Adeberg S, Rustomily R, Lo S, Butler EB, Teh BS. Outcomes following stereotactic radiosurgery or whole brain radiation therapy by molecular subtype of metastatic breast cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 26:341-351. [PMID: 34277087 PMCID: PMC8281912 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2021.0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background This study quantified clinical outcomes by molecular subtype of metastatic breast cancer (BC) following whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Doing so is important for patient counseling and to assess the potential benefit of combining targeted therapy and brain radiotherapy for certain molecular subtypes in ongoing trials. Materials and methods The National Cancer Database was queried for BC (invasive ductal carcinoma) cases receiving brain radiotherapy (divided into WBRT and SRS ). Statistics included multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with SRS delivery, Kaplan-Meier analysis to evaluate overall survival (OS), and Cox proportional hazards modeling. Results Of 1,112 patients, 186 (16.7%) received SRS and 926 (83.3%) underwent WBRT. Altogether, 410 (36.9%), 195 (17.5%), 162 (14.6%), and 345 (31.0%) were ER+/HER2−, ER+/HER2+, ER−/HER2+, and ER−/HER2−, respectively. In the respective molecular subtypes, the proportion of subjects who underwent SRS was 13.4%, 19.4%, 24.1%, and 15.7%. Respective OS for WBRT patients were 12.9, 22.8, 10.6, and 5.8 months; corresponding figures for the SRS cohort were 28.3, 40.7, 15.0, and 12.9 months (p < 0.05 for both). When comparing OS between treatment different histologic subtypes, patients with ER−/HER2+ and ER−/HER2− disease had worse OS than patients with ER+/HER2− disease, for both patients treated with SRS and for patients treated with WBRT. Conclusions Molecular subtype may be a useful prognostic marker to quantify survival following SRS/WBRT for metastatic BC. Patients with HER 2-enriched and triple-negative disease had the poorest survival following brain irradiation, lending credence to ongoing studies testing the addition of targeted therapies for these subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqar Haque
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vivek Verma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sebastian Adeberg
- Deparemnt of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert Rustomily
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Simon Lo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - E Brian Butler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Bin S Teh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
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Parikh AB, Zhong X, Mellgard G, Qin Q, Patel VG, Wang B, Alerasool P, Garcia P, Leiter A, Gallagher EJ, Clinton S, Mortazavi A, Monk P, Folefac E, Yin M, Yang Y, Galsky M, Oh WK, Tsao CK. Risk Factors for Emergency Room and Hospital Care Among Patients With Solid Tumors on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy. Am J Clin Oncol 2021; 44:114-120. [PMID: 33417323 PMCID: PMC7902456 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are being increasingly used across cancer types. Emergency room (ER) and inpatient (IP) care, common in patients with cancer, remain poorly defined in this specific population, and risk factors for such care are unknown. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed charts for patients with solid tumors who received >1 ICI dose at 1 of 2 sites from January 1, 2011 to April 28, 2017. Demographics, medical history, cancer diagnosis/therapy/toxicity details, and outcomes were recorded. Descriptive data detailing ER/IP care at the 2 associated hospitals during ICI therapy (from first dose to 3 mo after last dose) were collected. The Fisher exact test and multivariate regression analysis was used to study differences between patients with versus without ER/IP care during ICI treatment. RESULTS Among 345 patients studied, 50% had at least 1 ER visit during ICI treatment and 43% had at least 1 IP admission. Six percent of ER/IP visits eventually required intensive care. A total of 12% of ER/IP visits were associated with suspected or confirmed immune-related adverse events. Predictors of ER care were African-American race (odds ratio [OR]: 3.83, P=0.001), Hispanic ethnicity (OR: 3.12, P=0.007), and coronary artery disease (OR: 2.43, P=0.006). Predictors of IP care were African-American race (OR: 2.38, P=0.024), Hispanic ethnicity (OR: 2.29, P=0.045), chronic kidney disease (OR: 3.89, P=0.006), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker medication use (OR: 0.44, P=0.009), and liver metastasis (OR: 2.32, P=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Understanding demographic and clinical risk factors for ER/IP care among patients on ICIs can help highlight disparities, prospectively identify high-risk patients, and inform preventive programs aimed at reducing such care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anish B Parikh
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Xiaobo Zhong
- Division of Biostatistics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | | | - Qian Qin
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Vaibhav G Patel
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Bo Wang
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Parissa Alerasool
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
- New York Medical College, Valhalla NY USA
| | - Philip Garcia
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Amanda Leiter
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Emily J Gallagher
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Steven Clinton
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Amir Mortazavi
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Paul Monk
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Edmund Folefac
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Ming Yin
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Yuanquan Yang
- Genitourinary Oncology Section, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, Columbus OH USA
| | - Matthew Galsky
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - William K Oh
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
| | - Che-Kai Tsao
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY USA
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Osarogiagbon RU, Sineshaw HM, Unger JM, Acuña-Villaorduña A, Goel S. Immune-Based Cancer Treatment: Addressing Disparities in Access and Outcomes. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2021; 41:1-13. [PMID: 33830825 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_323523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Avoidable differences in the care and outcomes of patients with cancer (i.e., cancer care disparities) emerge or worsen with discoveries of new, more effective approaches to cancer diagnosis and treatment. The rapidly expanding use of immunotherapy for many different cancers across the spectrum from late to early stages has, predictably, been followed by emerging evidence of disparities in access to these highly effective but expensive treatments. The danger that these new treatments will further widen preexisting cancer care and outcome disparities requires urgent corrective intervention. Using a multilevel etiologic framework that categorizes the targets of intervention at the individual, provider, health care system, and social policy levels, we discuss options for a comprehensive approach to prevent and, where necessary, eliminate disparities in access to the clinical trials that are defining the optimal use of immunotherapy for cancer, as well as its safe use in routine care among appropriately diverse populations. We make the case that, contrary to the traditional focus on the individual level in descriptive reports of health care disparities, there is sequentially greater leverage at the provider, health care system, and social policy levels to overcome the challenge of cancer care and outcomes disparities, including access to immunotherapy. We also cite examples of effective government-sponsored and policy-level interventions, such as the National Cancer Institute Minority-Underserved Community Oncology Research Program and the Affordable Care Act, that have expanded clinical trial access and access to high-quality cancer care in general.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joseph M Unger
- Health Services Research, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Affiliate, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Sanjay Goel
- Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
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Rai P, Shen C, Kolodney J, Kelly KM, Scott VG, Sambamoorthi U. Factors associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor use among older adults with late-stage melanoma: A population-based study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e24782. [PMID: 33607829 PMCID: PMC7899862 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000024782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Improvement in overall survival by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) treatment in clinical trials encourages their use for late-stage melanoma. However, in the real-world, heterogeneity of population, such as older patients with multimorbidity, may lead to a slower diffusion of ICIs. The objective of this study was to examine the association of multimorbidity and other factors to ICI use among older patients with late-stage melanoma using real world data.A retrospective cohort study design with a 12-month baseline and follow-up period was adopted with data from the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry/Medicare database. Older patients (>65 years) with late-stage (stage III/IV) melanoma diagnosed between 2012 and 2015 were categorized as with or without multimorbidity (presence of 2 or more chronic conditions) and ICI use was identified in the post-index period. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to evaluate factors associated with ICI use.In the study cohort, 85% had multimorbidity, 18% received any treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, and/or ICI), and 6% received ICI. Only 5.5% of older patients with multimorbidity and 6% without multimorbidity received ICIs. Younger age, presence of social support, lower economic status, residence in northeastern regions, and recent year of diagnosis were significantly associated with ICI use; however, multimorbidity, sex, and race were not associated with ICI use.In the real-world clinical practice, only 1 in 18 older adults with late stage melanoma received ICI, suggesting slow pace of diffusion of innovation. However, multimorbidity was not a barrier to ICI use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragya Rai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Systems and Policy, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV
| | - Chan Shen
- Department of Surgery Chief, Division of Outcomes, Research and Quality Cancer Institute, Cancer Control Penn State Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA
| | - Joanna Kolodney
- Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV
| | - Kimberly M. Kelly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Systems and Policy, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV
| | - Virginia G. Scott
- Department of Pharmaceutical Systems and Policy, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV
| | - Usha Sambamoorthi
- Professor and Associate Dean of Health Outcomes Research, Department of Pharmacotherapy University of North Texas Health Sciences Center College of Pharmacy
- Vashisht Professor, Health Disparities, Health Education, Awareness & Research in Disparities Scholar, Texas Center for Health Disparities, HSC, Fort Worth TX
- Professor Emeritus, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Systems and Policy, Morgantown WV
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Di Carlo V, Estève J, Johnson C, Girardi F, Weir HK, Wilson RJ, Minicozzi P, Cress RD, Lynch CF, Pawlish KS, Rees JR, Coleman MP, Allemani C. Trends in short-term survival from distant-stage cutaneous melanoma in the United States, 2001-2013 (CONCORD-3). JNCI Cancer Spectr 2021; 4:pkaa078. [PMID: 33409455 PMCID: PMC7771008 DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkaa078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Survival from metastatic cutaneous melanoma is substantially lower than for localized disease. Treatments for metastatic melanoma have been limited, but remarkable clinical improvements have been reported in clinical trials in the last decade. We described the characteristics of US patients diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma during 2001-2013 and assessed trends in short-term survival for distant-stage disease. Methods Trends in 1-year net survival were estimated using the Pohar Perme estimator, controlling for background mortality with life tables of all-cause mortality rates by county of residence, single year of age, sex, and race for each year 2001-2013. We fitted a flexible parametric survival model on the log-hazard scale to estimate the effect of race on the hazard of death because of melanoma and estimated 1-year net survival by race. Results Only 4.4% of the 425 915 melanomas were diagnosed at a distant stage, cases diagnosed at a distant stage are more commonly men, older patients, and African Americans. Age-standardized, 1-year net survival for distant-stage disease was stable at approximately 43% during 2001-2010. From 2010 onward, survival improved rapidly, reaching 58.9% (95% confidence interval = 56.6% to 61.2%) for patients diagnosed in 2013. Younger patients experienced the largest improvement. Survival for distant-stage disease increased in both Blacks and Whites but was consistently lower in Blacks. Conclusions One-year survival for distant-stage melanoma improved during 2001-2013, particularly in younger patients and those diagnosed since 2010. This improvement may be a consequence of the introduction of immune-checkpoint-inhibitors and other targeted treatments for metastatic and unresectable disease. Persistent survival inequalities exist between Blacks and Whites, suggesting differential access to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Di Carlo
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jacques Estève
- Université Claude Bernard, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Service de Biostatistique, Lyon Cedex 03, France
| | | | - Fabio Girardi
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hannah K Weir
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Reda J Wilson
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Pamela Minicozzi
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rosemary D Cress
- Public Health Institute, Cancer Registry of Greater California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Charles F Lynch
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Judith R Rees
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Michel P Coleman
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Claudia Allemani
- Cancer Survival Group, Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Living with Metastatic Cancer: A Roadmap for Future Research. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123684. [PMID: 33302472 PMCID: PMC7763639 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although people with metastatic cancer are living longer with their disease, they are faced with challenges that can interfere with their quality of life. These challenges include worsening disease, survival time, symptoms, distress, and financial problems. The aim of this review paper is to describe a framework to guide future efforts to address these challenges. The framework includes the risk factors (predisposing factors), triggers (precipitating factors), and responses (perpetuating factors) that contribute to the onset and maintenance of problems in living with metastatic cancer. We conclude by suggesting areas for future work to prevent problems, manage triggers, and reduce unhelpful responses. Abstract Living with metastatic cancer, or metavivorship, differs from cancer survivorship and has changed as novel treatments have increased survival time. The purpose of this narrative review is to describe factors that impact challenges in metavivorship within a conceptual framework to guide future research. This review focuses on the specific metavivorship outcomes of progressive disease, survival time, symptoms, distress, financial toxicity, and quality of life. We describe the predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating (3P) model of metavivorship. Understanding the biological, psychological, and social 3P factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of challenges in metavivorship provides a roadmap for future research. Implications of this model include prevention by targeting predisposing factors, management of precipitating factors after onset of metastatic disease, and treatment of perpetuating factors to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life during the chronic phase of metavivorship. This can be accomplished through biopsychosocial screening efforts, monitoring of patient-reported outcomes, education and communication interventions, interdisciplinary symptom management, advance care planning, and behavioral interventions to cultivate psychological resilience.
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Li W, Xiao Y, Xu X, Zhang Y. A Novel Nomogram and Risk Classification System Predicting the Cancer-Specific Mortality of Patients with Initially Diagnosed Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2020; 28:3490-3500. [PMID: 33191484 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-020-09341-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous melanoma and distant organ metastasis has varying outcomes. Considering all prognostic indicators in a prediction model might assist in selecting cases who could benefit from a personalized therapy strategy. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop and validate a prognostic model for patients with metastatic melanoma. METHODS A total of 1535 cases diagnosed with metastatic cutaneous melanoma (stage IV) were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Patients were randomly divided into the training (n = 1023) and validation (n = 512) cohorts. A prognostic nomogram was established based predominantly on results from the competing-risk regression model for predicting cancer-specific death (CSD). The area under the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analyses (DCAs) were used to evaluate the nomogram. RESULTS No significant differences were observed in the clinical characteristics between the training and validation cohorts. In the training cohort, patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related predictors of CSD for metastatic melanoma included age, sex, race, marital status, insurance, American Joint Committee on Cancer T and N stage, number of metastatic organs, surgical treatment, and chemotherapy. All these factors were used for nomogram construction. The time-dependent AUC values of the training and validation cohorts suggested a favorable performance and discrimination of the nomogram. The 6-, 12-, and 18-month AUC values were 0.706, 0.700, and 0.706 in the training cohort, and 0.702, 0.670, and 0.656 in the validation cohort, respectively. The calibration curves for the probability of death at 6, 12, and 18 months showed acceptable agreement between the values predicted by the nomogram and the observed outcomes in both cohorts. DCA curves showed good positive net benefits in the prognostic model among most of the threshold probabilities at different time points (death at 6, 12, and 18 months). Based on the total nomogram scores of each case, all patients were divided into the low-risk (n = 511), intermediate-risk (n = 512), and high-risk (n = 512) groups, and the risk classification could identify cases with a high risk of death in both cohorts. CONCLUSIONS A predictive nomogram and a corresponding risk classification system for CSD in patients with metastatic melanoma were developed in this study, which may assist in patient counseling and in guiding clinical decision making for cases with metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuewen Xu
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yange Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Burns Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Norris RP, Dew R, Sharp L, Greystoke A, Rice S, Johnell K, Todd A. Are there socio-economic inequalities in utilization of predictive biomarker tests and biological and precision therapies for cancer? A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Med 2020; 18:282. [PMID: 33092592 PMCID: PMC7583194 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01753-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel biological and precision therapies and their associated predictive biomarker tests offer opportunities for increased tumor response, reduced adverse effects, and improved survival. This systematic review determined if there are socio-economic inequalities in utilization of predictive biomarker tests and/or biological and precision cancer therapies. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycINFO were searched for peer-reviewed studies, published in English between January 1998 and December 2019. Observational studies reporting utilization data for predictive biomarker tests and/or cancer biological and precision therapies by a measure of socio-economic status (SES) were eligible. Data was extracted from eligible studies. A modified ISPOR checklist for retrospective database studies was used to assess study quality. Meta-analyses were undertaken using a random-effects model, with sub-group analyses by cancer site and drug class. Unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed for each study. Pooled utilization ORs for low versus high socio-economic groups were calculated for test and therapy receipt. RESULTS Among 10,722 citations screened, 62 papers (58 studies; 8 test utilization studies, 37 therapy utilization studies, 3 studies on testing and therapy, 10 studies without denominator populations or which only reported mean socio-economic status) met the inclusion criteria. Studies reported on 7 cancers, 5 predictive biomarkers tests, and 11 biological and precision therapies. Thirty-eight studies (including 1,036,125 patients) were eligible for inclusion in meta-analyses. Low socio-economic status was associated with modestly lower predictive biomarker test utilization (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.71-1.05; 10 studies) and significantly lower biological and precision therapy utilization (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.75-0.91; 30 studies). Associations with therapy utilization were stronger in lung cancer (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51-1.00; 6 studies), than breast cancer (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.78-1.10; 8 studies). The mean study quality score was 6.9/10. CONCLUSIONS These novel results indicate that there are socio-economic inequalities in predictive biomarker tests and biological and precision therapy utilization. This requires further investigation to prevent differences in outcomes due to inequalities in treatment with biological and precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth P. Norris
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, King’s Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 7RU UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Rosie Dew
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Linda Sharp
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | | | - Stephen Rice
- Health Economics Group and Evidence Synthesis Team, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Kristina Johnell
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adam Todd
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, King’s Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 7RU UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Dizman N, Salgia NJ, Bergerot PG, Hsu J, Ruel N, Pal SK. Race/Ethnicity and Survival in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Outcomes for Patients Receiving First Line Targeted Therapies. KIDNEY CANCER 2020. [DOI: 10.3233/kca-200092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: No study to date has assessed the relationship between treatment-specific therapeutic outcomes and race/ethnicity in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). As targeted therapies have formed the backbone of first-line treatment options for mRCC until very recently, we assessed the relationship between race/ethnicity and targeted therapy-related outcomes in mRCC. OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively compare response rates and survival outcomes across ethnicities in patients who received first-line targeted therapies for mRCC. METHODS: Patients with mRCC receiving a first-line targeted therapy were identified from an institutional database encompassing consecutive patients treated between 2009 and 2019. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics and survival outcomes were recorded. The racial/ethnic groups included for analysis were Caucasian American, Hispanic American, and Asian American. Survival and response outcomes including progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were calculated and compared across ethnic groups using Kaplan-Meier method and Chi-square test, respectively. RESULTS: In total, 295 patients were included for analysis. There were 184 (62.4%) Caucasian American patients, 82 (27.8%) Hispanic American patients, and 29 (9.8%) Asian American patients. No statistically significant differences in PFS nor OS were found between groups (PFS: 5.6 vs. 4.7 vs. 4.7 months, respectively) (OS: 32 vs. 31.7 vs. 51.7 months, respectively). No significant difference was found in ORR nor DCR across groups. Univariate cox regression analyses demonstrated no independent effect of race/ethnicity on PFS or OS. CONCLUSIONS: The apparent lack of differences in treatment-related outcomes across racial/ethnic groups is encouraging. However, further validation is required in larger series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Dizman
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Paulo G. Bergerot
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - JoAnn Hsu
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Nora Ruel
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Sumanta K. Pal
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
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Moyers JT, Patel A, Shih W, Nagaraj G. Association of Sociodemographic Factors With Immunotherapy Receipt for Metastatic Melanoma in the US. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2015656. [PMID: 32876684 PMCID: PMC7489862 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.15656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Strides to improve survival in metastatic melanoma have been made with the use of immunotherapeutic agents in the form of immune checkpoint inhibitors. OBJECTIVE To examine the factors associated with immunotherapy receipt in patients with metastatic melanoma in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used data on 9882 patients with metastatic melanoma diagnosed from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2016, from the National Cancer Database. Patients who did not have documentation regarding immunotherapy receipt were excluded. Data analysis was performed from July 1, 2019, to December 15, 2019. EXPOSURE Receipt of immunotherapy. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the association of receipt of immunotherapy as first-line therapy with sociodemographic factors. The secondary outcome was overall survival by receipt of immunotherapy. RESULTS A total of 9512 patients (mean [SD] age, 65.1 [14.4] years; 6481 [68.1%] male; 9217 [96.9%] White) met the criteria for treatment analysis. A total of 3428 (36.0%) received immunotherapy, and 6084 (64.0%) did not. Increasing age (odds ratio [OR], 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.98; P < .001) and increasing Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.80-0.92; P < .001) were associated with lower odds of receiving immunotherapy on regression analysis. Diagnosis in Medicaid expansion states (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.05-1.27; P = .003), treatment at an academic or integrated cancer network program (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.45-1.75; P < .001), and residence within the highest quartile of high school graduation rate zip code area (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09-1.56; P = .003) were associated with an increased likelihood of receiving immunotherapy. Median overall survival was 10.1 months (95% CI, 9.6-10.6 months) among all patients. Patients who received first-line immunotherapy had a median overall survival of 18.4 months (95% CI, 16.6-20.1 months) compared with 7.5 months (95% CI, 7.0-7.9 months) (P < .001) among patients who did not. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study, patients who received immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma had improved overall survival. Residence in Medicaid expansion states, younger age, low comorbidity index, care at academic medical centers or integrated network cancer programs, and residence in zip codes within the highest quartile of high school graduation were associated with an increased likelihood of receiving immunotherapy. Recognizing sociodemographic associations with treatment receipt is important to identify potential barriers to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin T. Moyers
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Amie Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Wendy Shih
- School of Public Heath, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Gayathri Nagaraj
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
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