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Walsh EA, Walsh LE, Hernand M, Horick N, Antoni MH, Temel JS, Greer JA, Jacobs JM. Concurrent factors associated with adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy among women with non-metastatic breast cancer. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01556-9. [PMID: 38401012 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01556-9] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) reduces breast cancer morbidity and mortality, yet women often report suboptimal adherence. Though correlates of AET adherence are well-documented, few studies examine the relative importance of multi-level factors associated with adherence. The aim of this study was to identify factors most strongly associated with AET adherence in women with breast cancer. METHODS Between 10/2019 and 6/2021, women (N = 100) with non-metastatic, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, taking AET who reported AET-related distress enrolled into a clinical trial. Participants completed baseline measures, including the Medication Adherence Rating Scale-5, sociodemographics, and validated measures of anxiety, depression, medication-taking self-efficacy, social support, and treatment satisfaction. We created a latent factor and tested associations between sociodemographic, medical, and psychosocial characteristics and adherence. Associated predictors (p < .10) were entered into a structural model, which was corroborated via multivariate regression modeling. RESULTS A four-indicator latent adherence factor demonstrated good model fit. Participants (Mage = 56.1 years, 91% White) who were unemployed (B = 0.27, SE = 0.13, p = .046) and reported greater treatment convenience (B = 0.01, SE = 0.01, p = .046) reported greater adherence. Scores of participants who reported greater medication-taking self-efficacy (p = .097) and social support (p = .062) approached better adherence. Greater medication-taking self-efficacy (B = 0.08, SE = 0.02, p < .001) and being unemployed (B = 0.28, SE = .14, p = .042) were most strongly associated with greater adherence, independent of other predictors. Multivariate modeling confirmed similar findings. CONCLUSIONS Medication-taking self-efficacy and employment status were associated with AET adherence above other related factors. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Enhancing patients' confidence in their ability to take AET for breast cancer may represent an important intervention target to boost adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Walsh
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Fifth Floor, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
| | - Leah E Walsh
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Max Hernand
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nora Horick
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael H Antoni
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Fifth Floor, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jamie M Jacobs
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Yang S, Park SW, Bae SJ, Ahn SG, Jeong J, Park K. Investigation of Factors Affecting Adherence to Adjuvant Hormone Therapy in Early-Stage Breast Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. J Breast Cancer 2023; 26:309-333. [PMID: 37272247 PMCID: PMC10475712 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2023.26.e22] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Adherence and persistence to adjuvant hormone therapy (AHT) are seldom maintained among early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (BC) survivors, despite the significant clinical benefits of long-term AHT. As the factors influencing adherence to AHT remain unclear, this study aimed to comprehensively identify such factors and classify them into specific dimensions. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were searched for qualified articles. The search mainly focused on three components: early-stage (0-III) BC, oral AHT administration, and adherence to AHT, with keywords derived from MeSH and entry terms. The factors identified were then classified into six categories based on a modified WHO multidimensional model. RESULTS Overall, 146 studies were included; the median sample size was 651 (range, 31-40,009), and the mean age of the population was 61.5 years (standard deviation, 8.3 years). Patient- and therapy-related factors were the most frequently investigated factors. Necessity/concern beliefs and self-efficacy among patient-related factors were consistently related to better adherence than depression. Although drug side effects and medication use cannot be modified easily, a refined prescription strategy for the initiation and switching of AHT is likely to increase adherence levels. CONCLUSION An effective psychological program that encourages positive views and beliefs about medication and management strategies for each therapy may be necessary to improve adherence to AHT. Social support and a sense of belonging can be enhanced through community participation and social media for better adherence to AHT. Patient-centered communication and appropriate recommendations by physicians may be attributable to better adherence outcomes. Findings from systematically organized factors that influence adherence to AHT may contribute to the establishment of intervention strategies to benefit patients with early-stage BC to achieve optimal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongwoo Yang
- HERINGS, The Institute of Advanced Clinical & Biomedical Research, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Won Park
- HERINGS, The Institute of Advanced Clinical & Biomedical Research, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soong June Bae
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine/Institute for Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Gwe Ahn
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine/Institute for Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon Jeong
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine/Institute for Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyounghoon Park
- HERINGS, The Institute of Advanced Clinical & Biomedical Research, Seoul, Korea.
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Khan HM, Ramsey S, Shankaran V. Financial Toxicity in Cancer Care: Implications for Clinical Care and Potential Practice Solutions. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:3051-3058. [PMID: 37071839 DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.01799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cancer face an array of financial consequences as a result of their diagnosis and treatment, collectively referred to as financial toxicity (FT). In the past 10 years, the body of literature on this subject has grown tremendously, with a recent focus on interventions and mitigation strategies. In this review, we will briefly summarize the FT literature, focusing on the contributing factors and downstream consequences on patient outcomes. In addition, we will put FT into context with our emerging understanding of the role of social determinants of health and provide a framework for understanding FT across the cancer care continuum. We will then discuss the role of the oncology community in addressing FT and outline potential strategies that oncologists and health systems can implement to reduce this undue burden on patients with cancer and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba M Khan
- Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Scott Ramsey
- Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Veena Shankaran
- Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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Hager A, Gracia G, Rodin D, Conti RM. Out-of-Pocket Costs of Treatment Among Employer-Insured Women With Invasive Breast Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e231507. [PMID: 36867412 PMCID: PMC9984972 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.1507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examines out-of-pocket costs for the treatment of invasive breast cancer in employer-insured women younger than 65 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Hager
- Department of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gabriela Gracia
- Department of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Danielle Rodin
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rena M. Conti
- Department of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Llanos AAM, Ashrafi A, Ghosh N, Tsui J, Lin Y, Fong AJ, Ganesan S, Heckman CJ. Evaluation of Inequities in Cancer Treatment Delay or Discontinuation Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2251165. [PMID: 36637818 PMCID: PMC9856904 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.51165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE There is a disproportionately greater burden of COVID-19 among Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black individuals, who also experience poorer cancer outcomes. Understanding individual-level and area-level factors contributing to inequities at the intersection of COVID-19 and cancer is critical. OBJECTIVE To evaluate associations of individual-level and area-level social determinants of health (SDOH) with delayed or discontinued cancer treatment following SARS-CoV-2 infection. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This retrospective, registry-based cohort study used data from 4768 patients receiving cancer care who had positive test results for SARS-CoV-2 and were enrolled in the American Society for Clinical Oncology COVID-19 Registry. Data were collected from April 1, 2020, to September 26, 2022. EXPOSURES Race and ethnicity, sex, age, and area-level SDOH based on zip codes of residence at the time of cancer diagnosis. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Delayed (≥14 days) or discontinued cancer treatment (any cancer treatment, surgery, pharmacotherapy, or radiotherapy) and time (in days) to restart pharmacotherapy. RESULTS A total of 4768 patients (2756 women [57.8%]; 1558 [32.7%] aged ≥70 years at diagnosis) were included in the analysis. There were 630 Hispanic (13.2%), 196 non-Hispanic Asian American or Pacific Islander (4.1%), 568 non-Hispanic Black (11.9%), and 3173 non-Hispanic White individuals (66.5%). Compared with non-Hispanic White individuals, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black individuals were more likely to experience a delay of at least 14 days or discontinuation of any treatment and drug-based treatment; only estimates for non-Hispanic Black individuals were statistically significant, with correction for multiple comparisons (risk ratios [RRs], 1.35 [95% CI, 1.22-1.49] and 1.37 [95% CI, 1.23-1.52], respectively). Area-level SDOH (eg, geography, proportion of residents without health insurance or with only a high school education, lower median household income) were associated with delayed or discontinued treatment. In multivariable Cox proportinal hazards regression models, estimates suggested that Hispanic (hazard ratio [HR], 0.87 [95% CI, 0.71-1.05]), non-Hispanic Asian American or Pacific Islander (HR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.46-1.35]), and non-Hispanic Black individuals (HR, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.67-0.97]) experienced longer delays to restarting pharmacotherapy compared with non-Hispanic White individuals. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this cohort study suggest that race and ethnicity and area-level SDOH were associated with delayed or discontinued cancer treatment and longer delays to the restart of drug-based therapies following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Such treatment delays could exacerbate persistent cancer survival inequities in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adana A. M. Llanos
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Adiba Ashrafi
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Nabarun Ghosh
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Jennifer Tsui
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Yong Lin
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick
| | - Angela J. Fong
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Shridar Ganesan
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick
- Department of Medicine and Pharmacology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Carolyn J. Heckman
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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Fusco N, Sils B, Graff JS, Kistler K, Ruiz K. Cost-sharing and adherence, clinical outcomes, health care utilization, and costs: A systematic literature review. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2023; 29:4-16. [PMID: 35389285 PMCID: PMC10394195 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2022.21270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: US health plans are adopting benefit designs that shift greater financial burden to patients through higher deductibles, additional copay tiers, and coinsurance. Prior systematic reviews found that higher cost was associated with reductions in both appropriate and inappropriate medications. However, these reviews were conducted prior to contemporary benefit design and medication utilization. OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship and factors associated with cost-sharing and (1) medication adherence, (2) clinical outcomes, (3) health care resource utilization (HRU), and (4) costs. METHODS: A systematic review of literature published between January 2010 and August 2020 was conducted to identify the relationship between cost-sharing and medication adherence, clinical outcomes, HRU, and health care costs. Data were extracted using a standardized template and were synthesized by key questions of interest. RESULTS: From 1,995 records screened, 79 articles were included. Most studies, 71 of 79 (90%), reported the relationship between cost-sharing and treatment adherence, persistence and/or discontinuation; 16 (20%) reported data on cost-sharing and HRU or medication initiation, 11 (14%) on costsharing and health care costs, and 6 (8%) on cost-sharing and clinical outcomes. The majority of publications found that, regardless of disease area, increased cost-sharing was associated with worse adherence, persistence, or discontinuation. The aggregate data suggested the greater the magnitude of cost-sharing, the worse the adherence. Among studies examining clinical outcomes, cost-sharing was associated with worse outcomes in 1 study and the remaining 3 found no significant differences. Regarding HRU, higher-cost-sharing trended toward decreased outpatient and increased inpatient utilization. The available evidence suggested higher cost-sharing has an overall neutral to negative impact on total costs. Studies evaluating elimination of copays found either decreased or no impact in total costs. CONCLUSIONS: The published literature shows consistent impacts of higher cost sharing on initiation and continuation of medications, and the greater the cost-sharing, the worse the medication adherence. The evidence is limited regarding the impact of cost-sharing on clinical outcomes, HRU, and costs. Limited evidence suggests increased cost-sharing is associated with more inpatient care and less outpatient care; however, a neutral to no difference was suggested for other outcomes. Although increased costsharing is intended to decrease total costs, studies evaluating reducing or eliminating cost-sharing found that total costs did not rise. Today's growing cost-containment environment should carefully consider the broader impact cost-sharing has on treatment adherence, clinical outcomes, resource use, and total costs. It may be that cost-sharing is a blunt, rather than precise, tool to curb health care costs, affecting both necessary and unnecessary health care use. DISCLOSURES: This study and the development of this article were funded by the National Pharmaceutical Council. Mr Sils is an employee of the National Pharmaceutical Council. Dr Graff is a former employee of the National Pharmaceutical Council. Drs Fusco and Kistler and Ms Ruiz are employees of Xcenda. Xcenda received funding to conduct the literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian Sils
- National Pharmaceutical Council, Washington, DC
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Sood N, Liu Y, Lian M, Greever-Rice T, Lucht J, Schmaltz C, Colditz GA. Association of Endocrine Therapy Initiation Timeliness With Adherence and Continuation in Low-Income Women With Breast Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2225345. [PMID: 35921108 PMCID: PMC9350715 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.25345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Though adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) has proven efficacy in treating hormone receptor-positive (HR-positive) breast cancer, patient adherence to AET and continuation of treatment as recommended by guidelines remain suboptimal, especially for low-income patients. OBJECTIVE To quantify timelines for initiating AET and assess their association with short- and long-term adherence and continuation of AET in low-income women with breast cancer. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This population-based retrospective cohort study included women younger than 65 years diagnosed with first primary HR-positive breast cancer between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2013, followed up for 5 years after the first use of AET through December 2018, and identified from the linked Missouri Cancer Registry and Medicaid claims data set. EXPOSURES Time to initiation (TTI) as days from the date of last treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy) to the first date of AET prescription fill. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main outcomes were adherence to AET as medication possession ratio of 80% or greater and continuation of AET as no gap in medication supply for at least 90 days. Odds ratios (ORs) of adherence and continuation over 1 to 5 years were estimated using logistic regression adjusted for demographic, clinical, and neighborhood variables. Analyses were performed between September 1, 2020, and May 31, 2022. RESULTS Among 1711 patients, median TTI was 53 (IQR, 26-117) days. A total of 1029 patients (60.1%) were aged 50 to 64 years old, 1270 (74.2%) were non-Hispanic White, and 1133 (66.2%) were unmarried. In the first year after initiation, 1317 (77.0%) were adherent and 1015 (59.3%) continued AET. Over the full 5 years, 376 (22.0%) were adherent and 409 (23.9%) continued AET. Longer TTI was significantly associated with poorer adherence at every year, with an OR of 0.97 (95% CI, 0.95-0.99) for 1-year adherence and an OR of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.90-0.97) for 5-year adherence per 1-month increase in TTI. Longer TTI was also associated with lower odds of short-term, but not long-term, continuation (OR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.95-0.99] for 1-year continuation and 0.98 [95% CI, 0.96-0.99] for 2-year continuation). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study, longer time to AET initiation was associated with lower odds of short-term and long-term adherence to AET in Medicaid-insured patients with breast cancer. Therefore, early interventions targeting treatment initiation timelines may positively impact adherence throughout the course of treatment and, therefore, outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Sood
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
| | - Ying Liu
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
- Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
| | - Min Lian
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
- Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Jill Lucht
- Center for Health Policy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Chester Schmaltz
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Graham A. Colditz
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
- Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri
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Kaye DR, Wilson LE, Greiner MA, Spees LP, Pritchard JE, Zhang T, Pollack CE, George D, Scales CD, Baggett CD, Gross CP, Leapman MS, Wheeler SB, Dinan MA. Patient, provider, and hospital factors associated with oral anti-neoplastic agent initiation and adherence in older patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. J Geriatr Oncol 2022; 13:614-623. [PMID: 35125336 PMCID: PMC9232903 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral anti-neoplastic agents (OAAs) for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) are associated with increased cancer-specific survival. However, racial disparities in survival persist and older adults have the lowest rates of cancer-specific survival. Research from other cancers demonstrates specialty access is associated with high-quality cancer care, but older adults receive cancer treatment less often than younger adults. We therefore examined whether patient, provider, and hospital characteristics were associated with OAA initiation, adherence, and cancer-specific survival after initiation and whether race, ethnicity, and/or age was associated with an increased likelihood of seeing a medical oncologist for diagnosis of mRCC. PATIENTS AND METHODS We used Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)Medicare data to identify patients ≥65 years of age who were diagnosed with mRCC from 2007 to 2015 and enrolled in Medicare Part D. Insurance claims were used to identify receipt of OAAs within twelve months of metastatic diagnosis, calculate proportion of days covered, and to identify the primary cancer provider and hospital. We examined provider and hospital characteristics associated with OAA initiation, adherence, and all-cause mortality after OAA initiation. RESULTS We identified 2792 patients who met inclusion criteria. Increased OAA initiation was associated with access to a medical oncologist. Patients were less likely to begin OAA treatment if their primary oncologic provider was a urologist (hazard ratio [HR] 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49-0.77). Provider/hospital characteristics were not associated with differences in OAA adherence or mortality. Patients who started sorafenib (odds ratio [OR] 0.50; 95% CI 0.29-0.86), were older (aged >81 OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.34-0.92), and those living in high poverty ZIP codes (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.29-0.80) were less likely to adhere to OAA treatment. Furthermore, provider characteristics did not account for differences in mortality once an OAA was initiated. Last, only age > 81 years was statistically and clinically associated with a decreased relative risk of seeing a medical oncologist (risk ratio [RR] 0.87; CI 0.82-0.92). CONCLUSION Provider/hospital factors, specifically, being seen by a medical oncologist for mRCC diagnosis, are associated with OAA initiation. Older patients were less likely to see a medical oncologist; however, race and/or ethnicity was not associated with differences in seeing a medical oncologist. Patient factors are more critical to OAA adherence and mortality after OAA initiation than provider/hospital factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah R Kaye
- Department of Surgery (Urology), Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America; Duke-Margolis Policy Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Lauren E Wilson
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Melissa A Greiner
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Lisa P Spees
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Jessica E Pritchard
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Tian Zhang
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Craig E Pollack
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Daniel George
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Charles D Scales
- Department of Surgery (Urology), Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America; Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Chris D Baggett
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Cary P Gross
- Department of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research Center, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Michael S Leapman
- Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research Center, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Stephanie B Wheeler
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Michaela A Dinan
- Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America.
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Chun DS, Hicks B, Hinton SP, Funk MJ, Gooden K, Keil AP, Tan HJ, Stürmer T, Lund JL. Comparison of Approaches for Measuring Adherence and Persistence to Oral Oncologic Therapies in Patients Diagnosed with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022; 31:893-899. [PMID: 35064061 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-21-0341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence and persistence studies face several methodologic difficulties, including short-term mortality. We compared approaches to quantify adherence and persistence to first line (1L) oral targeted therapy (TT) in patients diagnosed with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). METHODS Patients with mRCC ages 66 years or more who initiated TTs within 4 months of diagnosis were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Medicare-linked database (2007-2015). Adherence [proportion of days covered (PDC) >80%] was calculated using (i) PDC with a fixed 6-month denominator including then excluding patients who died within the 6 months and (ii) PDC with a denominator measuring time on treatment. Risk of nonpersistence was obtained by censoring death or treating death as a competing risk using cumulative incidence functions. RESULTS Among 485 patients with mRCC initiating a 1L oral TT (sunitinib, 64%; pazopanib, 25%; other, 11%), 40% died within 6 months. Adherence was higher after restricting to patients who survived (60%) compared with including those patients and assigning zero days covered after death (47%). Risk of nonpersistence was higher when censoring patients at death, 0.91 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.88-0.94], compared with treating death as a competing risk, 0.75 (95% CI, 0.71-0.79). CONCLUSIONS Different approaches to handling death resulted in different adherence and persistence estimates in the metastatic setting. Future studies should explicitly report the proportion of patient deaths over time and explore appropriate methods to account for death as competing risk. IMPACT Use of several approaches can provide a more comprehensive picture of medication-taking behavior in the metastatic setting where death is a major competing risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle S Chun
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Blánaid Hicks
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Sharon Peacock Hinton
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Michele Jonsson Funk
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kyna Gooden
- Bristol Meyers Squibb, Princeton Pike, New Jersey
| | - Alexander P Keil
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hung-Jui Tan
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Til Stürmer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jennifer L Lund
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Cescon DW, Kalinsky K, Parsons HA, Smith KL, Spears PA, Thomas A, Zhao F, DeMichele A. Therapeutic Targeting of Minimal Residual Disease to Prevent Late Recurrence in Hormone-Receptor Positive Breast Cancer: Challenges and New Approaches. Front Oncol 2022; 11:667397. [PMID: 35223447 PMCID: PMC8867255 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.667397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
While the majority of breast cancers are diagnosed at a curable stage, approximately 20% of women will experience recurrence at a distant site during their lifetime. These metastatic recurrences are incurable with current therapeutic approaches. Over the past decade, the biologic mechanisms underlying these recurrences have been elucidated, establishing the existence of minimal residual disease in the form of circulating micrometastases and dormant disease, primarily in the bone marrow. Numerous technologies are now available to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) after breast cancer treatment, but it is yet unknown how to best target and eradicate these cells, and whether clearance of detectable disease prior to the formation of overt metastases can prevent ultimate progression and death. Clinical trials to test this hypothesis are challenging due to the rare nature of MRD in the blood and bone marrow, resulting in the need to screen a large number of survivors to identify those for study. Use of prognostic molecular tools may be able to direct screening to those patients most likely to harbor MRD, but the relationship between these predictors and MRD detection is as yet undefined. Further challenges include the lack of a definitive assay for MRD with established clinical utility, difficulty in selecting potential interventions due to limitations in understanding the biology of MRD, and the emotional impact of detecting MRD in patients who have completed definitive treatment and have no evidence of overt metastatic disease. This review provides a roadmap for tackling these challenges in the design and implementation of interventional clinical trials aimed at eliminating MRD and ultimately preventing metastatic disease to improve survival from this disease, with a specific focus on late recurrences in ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Cescon
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, CA, Canada
| | - Kevin Kalinsky
- Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Heather A Parsons
- Department of Medical Oncology, Division of Breast Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karen Lisa Smith
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Patricia A Spears
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Alexandra Thomas
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Fengmin Zhao
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute - ECOG-ACRIN Biostatistics Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Angela DeMichele
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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11
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Jeong AY, Schwartz EB, Roman AR, McDevitt RL, Oerline MK, Henry E, Veenstra CM, Caram ME. Characterizing Out-of-Pocket Payments and Financial Assistance for Patients Prescribed Abiraterone and Enzalutamide at an Academic Cancer Center Specialty Pharmacy. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e284-e292. [PMID: 34491783 PMCID: PMC9213198 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Abiraterone and enzalutamide are commonly used oral cancer therapies for patients with prostate cancer, both with potentially high out-of-pocket costs for patients. We investigated the prevalence of financial assistance mechanisms used to alleviate out-of-pocket costs and the association of these mechanisms with timing of treatment initiation of abiraterone or enzalutamide. METHODS Using data from the medical center's specialty pharmacy, we identified first prescriptions for abiraterone or enzalutamide between January 1, 2017, and March 31, 2019. Prescriptions dispensed at an external pharmacy or that were discontinued for reasons unrelated to cost were excluded. Patient demographics, insurance coverage, out-of-pocket cost, and number of days between prescribed date and pill-to-mouth date were collected. RESULTS Among 220 prescriptions in our final cohort, 185 were filled through our internal specialty pharmacy, 23 through a manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance program (PAP), and 12 were never filled because of cost. One third of the prescriptions in our final cohort (n = 66) were filled with financial assistance: PAP (10%), copay cards (9%), and grants (11%). The median amount of assistance received for the first fill was $2,860 US dollars (USD) (interquartile range $1,856-$10,717 USD). Prescriptions with an out-of-pocket cost < $100 USD were filled in the shortest time (median 5 days), whereas those filled through a PAP had the longest time to initiation (median 30.5 days). CONCLUSION Among patients prescribed oral therapies for prostate cancer at a single institution, one third of patients received financial assistance. Although receiving assistance is likely to improve financial toxicity, waiting for assistance may lead to longer time to initiation of medication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric B. Schwartz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Andrea R. Roman
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Mary K. Oerline
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Elyssa Henry
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Christine M. Veenstra
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Megan E.V. Caram
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI,VA Health Services Research & Development, Center for Clinical Management and Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI,Megan E.V. Caram, MD, MSc, University of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109; e-mail:
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12
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Contribution of cost to treatment nonadherence in the US breast cancer survivors: a population-based analysis. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2022; 192:369-373. [PMID: 34988768 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-022-06510-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer survivors are often prescribed medications for at least 5 years to reduce recurrence risk, yet some forego this treatment due to cost. We sought to elucidate the prevalence of this and the factors contributing to it. METHODS The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) is a population-based survey, representative of the civilian non-institutionalized US population, administered annually by the CDC. People diagnosed with breast cancer within the past 5 years surveyed in the 2018 NHIS formed the cohort of interest. RESULTS Of the 24,858 breast cancer survivors surveyed, representing 244,607,304 in the population, 6.32% stated that they needed a prescription medicine within the past 12 months, but didn't get it filled because they couldn't afford it. Of those who had gotten a prescription within the past 12 months, 5.71, 5.94 and 7.48% had either skipped doses, taken less medication than prescribed, or delayed filling a prescription, respectively, to save money. 11.99% of people had done at least one of these, thereby foregoing treatment. On bivariate analyses, factors associated with foregoing treatment included age, race, education, family income, and insurance status (p < 0.001 for all). On multivariable analysis, age, race, family income, and insurance status were all independent predictors of foregoing treatment (p < 0.001 for all); education status was not significant in the model (p = 0.211). CONCLUSION Roughly 12% of breast cancer survivors who are prescribed medications within the first 5 years of their diagnosis will forego treatment due to cost. Family income and insurance status are key modifiable drivers of this.
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13
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Acquati C, Chen TA, Martinez Leal I, Connors SK, Haq AA, Rogova A, Ramirez S, Reitzel LR, McNeill LH. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Care and Health-Related Quality of Life of Non-Hispanic Black/African American, Hispanic/Latina and Non-Hispanic White Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in the U.S.: A Mixed-Methods Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413084. [PMID: 34948695 PMCID: PMC8702073 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had critical consequences for cancer care delivery, including altered treatment protocols and delayed services that may affect patients’ quality of life and long-term survival. Breast cancer patients from minoritized racial and ethnic groups already experience worse outcomes, which may have been exacerbated by treatment delays and social determinants of health (SDoH). This protocol details a mixed-methods study aimed at comparing cancer care disruption among a diverse sample of women (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black/African American, and Hispanic/Latina) and assessing how proximal, intermediate, and distal SDoH differentially contribute to care continuity and health-related quality of life. An embedded mixed-methods design will be implemented. Eligible participants will complete an online survey, followed by a semi-structured interview (with a subset of participants) to further understand factors that influence continuity of care, treatment decision-making, and self-reported engagement. The study will identify potentially modifiable factors to inform future models of care delivery and improve care transitions. These data will provide the necessary evidence to inform whether a subsequent, multilevel intervention is warranted to improve quality of care delivery in the COVID-19 aftermath. Additionally, results can be used to identify ways to leverage existing social resources to help manage and support patients’ outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, 3511 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-713-743-4343
| | - Tzuan A. Chen
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Isabel Martinez Leal
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Shahnjayla K. Connors
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, TX 77002, USA
| | - Arooba A. Haq
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Anastasia Rogova
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Stephanie Ramirez
- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Houston, 3507 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
| | - Lorraine R. Reitzel
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Lorna H. McNeill
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
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14
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Fu SJ, Rose L, Dawes AJ, Knowlton LM, Ruddy KJ, Morris AM. Out-of-Pocket Costs Among Patients With a New Cancer Diagnosis Enrolled in High-Deductible Health Plans vs Traditional Insurance. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2134282. [PMID: 34935922 PMCID: PMC8696568 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.34282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The financial burden of a cancer diagnosis is increasing rapidly with advances in cancer care. Simultaneously, more individuals are enrolling in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) vs traditional insurance than ever before. OBJECTIVE To characterize the out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) of cancer care for individuals in HDHPs vs traditional insurance plans. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This retrospective cohort study used the administrative claims data of a single national insurer in the US for 134 826 patients aged 18 to 63 years with a new diagnosis of breast, colorectal, lung, or other cancer from 2008 to 2018 with 24 months or more of continuous enrollment. Propensity score matching was performed to create comparator groups based on the presence or absence of an incident cancer diagnosis. EXPOSURES A new cancer diagnosis and enrollment in an HDHP vs a traditional health insurance plan. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was OOPCs among individuals with breast, colon, lung, or all other types of cancer combined compared with those with no cancer diagnosis. A triple difference-in-differences analysis was performed to identify incremental OOPCs based on cancer diagnosis and enrollment in HDHPs vs traditional plans. RESULTS After propensity score matching, 134 826 patients remained in each of the cancer (73 572 women [55%]; median age, 53 years [IQR, 46-58 years]; 110 071 non-Hispanic White individuals [82%]) and noncancer (66 619 women [49%]; median age, 53 years [IQR, 46-59 years]; 105 023 non-Hispanic White individuals [78%]) cohorts. Compared with baseline costs of medical care among individuals without cancer, a breast cancer diagnosis was associated with the highest incremental OOPC ($714.68; 95% CI, $664.91-$764.45), followed by lung ($475.51; 95% CI, $340.16-$610.86), colorectal ($361.41; 95% CI, $294.34-$428.48), and all other types of cancer combined ($90.51; 95% CI, $74.22-$106.79). Based on the triple difference-in-differences analysis, compared with patients without cancer enrolled in HDHPs, those with breast cancer paid $1683.36 in additional yearly OOPCs (95% CI, $1576.66-$1790.07), those with colorectal cancer paid $1420.06 more (95% CI, $1232.31-$1607.80), those with lung cancer paid $467.25 more (95% CI, $130.13-$804.37), and those with other types of cancer paid $550.87 more (95% CI, $514.75-$586.99). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Patients with cancer and private insurance experienced sharp increases in OOPCs compared with those without cancer, which was amplified among those with HDHPs. These findings illustrate the degree to which HDHPs offer poorer protection than traditional insurance against unexpected health care expenses. Coupled with the increasing cost of cancer care, higher cost sharing in the form of increasing enrollment in HDHPs requires further research on the potential clinical consequences through delayed or foregone care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue J. Fu
- Stanford-Surgery Policy, Improvement Research, and Education Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Liam Rose
- Health Economics Resource Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California
| | - Aaron J. Dawes
- Stanford-Surgery Policy, Improvement Research, and Education Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Lisa M. Knowlton
- Stanford-Surgery Policy, Improvement Research, and Education Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Arden M. Morris
- Stanford-Surgery Policy, Improvement Research, and Education Center, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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15
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Butani D, Gupta N, Jyani G, Bahuguna P, Kapoor R, Prinja S. Cost-effectiveness of Tamoxifen, Aromatase Inhibitor, and Switch Therapy (Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy) for Breast Cancer in Hormone Receptor Positive Postmenopausal Women in India. BREAST CANCER: TARGETS AND THERAPY 2021; 13:625-640. [PMID: 34866937 PMCID: PMC8636459 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s331831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer among women in India. Treatment with hormone therapy reduces recurrence. We undertook this cost-effectiveness study to ascertain the treatment option offering the best value for money. Methods The lifetime costs and health outcomes of using tamoxifen, AI and switch therapy were measured in a cohort of 50-year-old women with HR-positive early stage breast cancer. A Markov model of disease was developed using a societal perspective with a lifetime study horizon. Local, contralateral, and distant recurrence were modelled along with treatment related adverse effects. Primary data collected to obtain estimates of out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) and utility weights. Both health system cost and OOPE were included. The future costs and consequences were discounted at 3%. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis was used. Results The lifetime cost of hormone therapy with tamoxifen, AI and switch therapy was to be ₹1,472,037 (I$ 68,947), ₹1,306,794 (I$ 61,208) and ₹1,281,811 (I$ 60,038). The QALYs lived per patient receiving tamoxifen, AI and switch were 13.12, 13.42 and 13.32. tamoxifen was found to be more expensive and less effective. As compared to switch therapy, AI for five years incurred an incremental cost of ₹259,792 (I$12,168) per QALY gained. At the willingness to pay equals to per capita GDP of India, there is 55% probability of AI therapy to be cost-effective compared to switch therapy. Conclusion In postmenopausal women with HR-positive early-stage breast cancer, switch therapy is recommended for use on the basis of cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimple Butani
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gaurav Jyani
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Pankaj Bahuguna
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rakesh Kapoor
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shankar Prinja
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
- Correspondence: Shankar Prinja Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, IndiaTel +91 9872871978 Email
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16
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Guven DC, Yalcin S. Neoadjuvant capecitabine in rectal cancer chemoradiotherapy: too early to ring the alarms. Intern Med J 2021; 51:1365-1366. [PMID: 34423543 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Can Guven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Suayib Yalcin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hacettepe University Cancer Institute, Ankara, Turkey
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17
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Iragorri N, de Oliveira C, Fitzgerald N, Essue B. The Out-of-Pocket Cost Burden of Cancer Care-A Systematic Literature Review. Curr Oncol 2021; 28:1216-1248. [PMID: 33804288 PMCID: PMC8025828 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Out-of-pocket costs pose a substantial economic burden to cancer patients and their families. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the literature on out-of-pocket costs of cancer care. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies that estimated the out-of-pocket cost burden faced by cancer patients and their caregivers. The average monthly out-of-pocket costs per patient were reported/estimated and converted to 2018 USD. Costs were reported as medical and non-medical costs and were reported across countries or country income levels by cancer site, where possible, and category. The out-of-pocket burden was estimated as the average proportion of income spent as non-reimbursable costs. RESULTS Among all cancers, adult patients and caregivers in the U.S. spent between USD 180 and USD 2600 per month, compared to USD 15-400 in Canada, USD 4-609 in Western Europe, and USD 58-438 in Australia. Patients with breast or colorectal cancer spent around USD 200 per month, while pediatric cancer patients spent USD 800. Patients spent USD 288 per month on cancer medications in the U.S. and USD 40 in other high-income countries (HICs). The average costs for medical consultations and in-hospital care were estimated between USD 40-71 in HICs. Cancer patients and caregivers spent 42% and 16% of their annual income on out-of-pocket expenses in low- and middle-income countries and HICs, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We found evidence that cancer is associated with high out-of-pocket costs. Healthcare systems have an opportunity to improve the coverage of medical and non-medical costs for cancer patients to help alleviate this burden and ensure equitable access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Iragorri
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
| | - Claire de Oliveira
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
- Centre for Health Economics and Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
| | | | - Beverley Essue
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
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18
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Zhao H, Lei X, Niu J, Zhang N, Duan Z, Chavez-MacGregor M, Giordano SH. Prescription Patterns, Initiation, and 5-Year Adherence to Adjuvant Hormonal Therapy Among Commercially Insured Patients With Breast Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e794-e808. [PMID: 33596096 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are used as adjuvant hormonal therapy (AHT) for early-stage hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. Treatment for 5 years reduces cancer mortality by 30%. Despite this benefit, adherence to AHT has been suboptimal. Here, we evaluated AHT initiation and patient adherence in women with private health insurance. MATERIALS AND METHODS Female patients with breast cancer ≥ 18 years of age who underwent mastectomy or lumpectomy between 1999 and 2015 were identified in the IBM MarketScan Research Database. AHT initiation and adherence rates were estimated for all AHT users regardless of HR+ status. Initiation rates were standardized using HR+ breast cancer incidence rates in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program. Adherence was defined as medication possession ratio ≥ 80%. Risk ratios, odds ratios, and their 95% CIs were calculated for factors associated with patients' initiation and adherence. RESULTS Among 80,224 patients, the raw initiation rate was 71.8% and the standardized rate was 87.5%. We found 61.2% patients initiated treatment with AIs and 38.8% with tamoxifen. Patients' 1-year adherence rate was 84.4% and the 5-year rate was 65.2%. Prescription by mail-in order, using a single AHT regimen, 50 to 69 years of age, monthly out-of-pocket drug payment ≤ $11, in US dollars, no depression, no comorbidity, living in the Northeast, treatment in recent years, and receipt of a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery were associated with better adherence. CONCLUSION Five-year AHT adherence rates are low among female patients with breast cancer with private health insurance. Effective approaches to improve AHT adherence are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Xiudong Lei
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jiangong Niu
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Zhigang Duan
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Mariana Chavez-MacGregor
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.,Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Sharon H Giordano
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.,Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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19
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Politi MC, Yen RW, Elwyn G, O'Malley AJ, Saunders CH, Schubbe D, Forcino R, Durand M. Women Who Are Young, Non-White, and with Lower Socioeconomic Status Report Higher Financial Toxicity up to 1 Year After Breast Cancer Surgery: A Mixed-Effects Regression Analysis. Oncologist 2021; 26:e142-e152. [PMID: 33000504 PMCID: PMC7794185 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined self-reported financial toxicity and out-of-pocket expenses among adult women with breast cancer. METHODS Patients spoke English, Spanish, or Mandarin Chinese, were aged 18+ years, had stage I-IIIA breast cancer, and were eligible for breast-conserving and mastectomy surgery. Participants completed surveys about out-of-pocket costs and financial toxicity at 1 week, 12 weeks, and 1 year postsurgery. RESULTS Three hundred ninety-five of 448 eligible patients (88.2%) from the parent trial completed surveys. Excluding those reporting zero costs, crude mean ± SD out-of-pocket costs were $1,512 ± $2,074 at 1 week, $2,609 ± $6,369 at 12 weeks, and $3,308 ± $5,000 at 1 year postsurgery. Controlling for surgery, cancer stage, and demographics with surgeon and clinic as random effects, higher out-of-pocket costs were associated with higher financial toxicity 1 week and 12 weeks postsurgery (p < .001). Lower socioeconomic status (SES) was associated with lower out-of-pocket costs at each time point (p = .002-.013). One week postsurgery, participants with lower SES reported financial toxicity scores 1.02 points higher than participants with higher SES (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08-1.95). Black and non-White/non-Black participants reported financial toxicity scores 1.91 (95% CI, 0.46-3.37) and 2.55 (95% CI, 1.11-3.99) points higher than White participants. Older (65+ years) participants reported financial toxicity scores 2.58 points lower than younger (<65 years) participants (95% CI, -3.41, -1.74). Younger participants reported significantly higher financial toxicity at each time point. DISCUSSION Younger age, non-White race, and lower SES were associated with higher financial toxicity regardless of costs. Out-of-pocket costs increased over time and were positively associated with financial toxicity. Future work should reduce the impact of cancer care costs among vulnerable groups. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This study was one of the first to examine out-of-pocket costs and financial toxicity up to 1 year after breast cancer surgery. Younger age, Black race, race other than Black or White, and lower socioeconomic status were associated with higher financial toxicity. Findings highlight the importance of addressing patients' financial toxicity in several ways, particularly for groups vulnerable to its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C. Politi
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Renata W. Yen
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - Glyn Elwyn
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - A. James O'Malley
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - Catherine H. Saunders
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - Danielle Schubbe
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - Rachel Forcino
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
| | - Marie‐Anne Durand
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth CollegeLebanonNew HampshireUSA
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Caram MEV, Oerline MK, Dusetzina S, Herrel LA, Modi PK, Kaufman SR, Skolarus TA, Hollenbeck BK, Shahinian V. Adherence and out-of-pocket costs among Medicare beneficiaries who are prescribed oral targeted therapies for advanced prostate cancer. Cancer 2020; 126:5050-5059. [PMID: 32926427 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abiraterone and enzalutamide are high-cost oral therapies that increasingly are used to treat patients with advanced prostate cancer; these agents carry the potential for significant financial consequences to patients. In the current study, the authors investigated coping and material measures of the financial hardship of these therapies among patients with Medicare Part D coverage. METHODS The authors performed a retrospective cohort study on a 20% sample of Medicare Part D enrollees who underwent treatment with abiraterone or enzalutamide between July 2013 and June 2015. The authors described the variability in adherence rates and out-of-pocket payments among hospital referral regions in the first 6 months of therapy and determined whether adherence and out-of-pocket payments were associated with patient factors and the socioeconomic characteristics of where a patient was treated. RESULTS There were 4153 patients who filled abiraterone or enzalutamide prescriptions through Medicare Part D in 228 hospital referral regions. The mean adherence rate was 75%. The median monthly out-of-pocket payment for abiraterone and enzalutamide was $706 (range, $0-$3505). After multilevel, multivariable adjustment for patient and regional factors, adherence was found to be lower in patients who were older (69% for patients aged ≥85 years vs 76% for patients aged <70 years; P < .01) and in those with low-income subsidies (69% in those with a subsidy vs 76% in those without a subsidy; P < .01). Both Hispanic ethnicity and living in a hospital referral region with a higher percentage of Hispanic beneficiaries were found to be independently associated with higher out-of-pocket payments for abiraterone and enzalutamide. CONCLUSIONS There were substantial variations in the adherence rate and out-of-pocket payments among Medicare Part D beneficiaries who were prescribed abiraterone and enzalutamide. Sociodemographic patient and regional factors were found to be associated with both adherence and out-of-pocket payments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E V Caram
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Ann Arbor VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Health Services Research and Development, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mary K Oerline
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Stacie Dusetzina
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Lindsey A Herrel
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Parth K Modi
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Samuel R Kaufman
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ted A Skolarus
- Ann Arbor VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Health Services Research and Development, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brent K Hollenbeck
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Vahakn Shahinian
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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21
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Toledo G, Ochoa CY, Farias AJ. Religion and spirituality: their role in the psychosocial adjustment to breast cancer and subsequent symptom management of adjuvant endocrine therapy. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:3017-3024. [PMID: 33034750 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05722-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Distress from being diagnosed with breast cancer can impact a woman's decision to continue taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET). The purpose of this study is to explore how religion and/or spirituality influence women's psychosocial adjustment to breast cancer and subsequent symptom management among women on active AET. METHODS Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with breast cancer survivors (n = 19) from California and Texas. Interview questions prompted discussion about AET and how women adjusted to a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment with AET. Interview transcripts were analyzed with a deductive grounded theory approach, and an inductive constant comparison approach was used to identify the sources of religion and spirituality. RESULTS Religion supported women in their psychosocial adjustment to breast cancer by offering them a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It helped women make sense of their AET treatment as they persisted with it despite experiencing adverse side-effects. Spirituality played a prominent role in women's mental and physical wellbeing by facilitating positive and calm attitudes, which lessened women's fear during their cancer diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSION We identified that religion and/or spirituality helps women with their adjustment to breast cancer and influences their continued use and management of side-effects from AET. IMPLICATIONS FOR BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS This study illustrates the importance of developing meaning-centered interventions that harness religion and spirituality to help women cope with AET. Our findings support the development of interventions that work to enhance AET persistence among breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Toledo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carol Y Ochoa
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Albert J Farias
- Department of Preventive Medicine, The Gehr Family Center for Health Systems Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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22
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23
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Dean LT, George M, Lee KT, Ashing K. Why individual-level interventions are not enough: Systems-level determinants of oral anticancer medication adherence. Cancer 2020; 126:3606-3612. [PMID: 32438466 PMCID: PMC7467097 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nonadherence to oral anticancer medications (OAMs) in the United States is as low as 33% for some cancers. The reasons for nonadherence to these lifesaving medications are multifactorial, yet the majority of studies focus on patient-level factors influencing uptake and adherence. Individually based interventions to increase patient adherence have not been effective, and this warrants attention to factors at the payor, pharmaceutical, and clinical systems levels. Based on the authors' research and clinical experiences, this commentary brings fresh attention to the long-standing issue of OAM nonadherence, a growing quality-of-care issue, from a systems perspective. In this commentary, the key driving factors in pharmaceutical and payor systems (state and federal laws, payor/insurance companies, and pharmaceutical companies), clinical systems (hospitals and providers), and patient contexts that have trickle-down effects on patient adherence to OAMs are outlined. In the end, the authors' recommendations include examining the influence of laws governing OAM drug pricing, OAM supply, and provider reimbursement; reducing the need for prior authorization of long-approved OAMs; identifying cost-effective ways for providers to monitor nonadherence; examining issues of provider bias in OAM prescriptions; and further elucidating in which contexts patients are likely to be able to adhere. These recommendations offer a starting point for an examination of the chain of systems influencing patient adherence and may help to finally resolve persistently high levels of OAM nonadherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine T Dean
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marshalee George
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kimberley T Lee
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kimlin Ashing
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Health Equities, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
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24
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Manz CR. Getting in sync with adherence to endocrine therapy in breast cancer. Cancer 2019; 125:3917-3920. [DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. Manz
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Abramson Cancer Center Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania
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25
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Murphy CC, Lee SJC, Gerber DE, Cox JV, Fullington HM, Higashi RT. Patient and provider perspectives on delivery of oral cancer therapies. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2019; 102:2102-2109. [PMID: 31239181 PMCID: PMC6777994 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The introduction of oral cancer therapies presents new challenges to delivery of quality cancer care. Little is known about how patients and providers address and overcome these challenges. We conducted a qualitative study exploring the range of patient and provider perspectives on oral cancer therapies. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients and providers at a tertiary referral center and county safety-net hospital in Dallas, TX. Interviews probed perspectives on differences between parenteral chemotherapy and oral therapies, adherence, communication, and cost/insurance. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically using a deductively-driven coding scheme corresponding to the interview guide. RESULTS We conducted 22 patient (13 at tertiary referral center, 9 at safety-net hospital) and 10 provider (7 oncologists, 2 nurses, 1 pharmacist) interviews. Key themes from interviews included: (1) differences in parenteral chemotherapy vs. oral therapy; (2) adherence and dosing; and (3) experiences related to cost and communication. CONCLUSIONS Nearly all providers described challenges engaging with and educating patients about oral cancer therapies. Despite our initial hypothesis, safety-net patients encountered few barriers accessing oral therapies compared to patients receiving care in the tertiary referral center. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Our findings will guide future interventions to monitor and support cancer patients receiving oral therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin C Murphy
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Simon J Craddock Lee
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - David E Gerber
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - John V Cox
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Hannah M Fullington
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Robin T Higashi
- Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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26
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Smith GL, Lopez-Olivo MA, Advani PG, Ning MS, Geng Y, Giordano SH, Volk RJ. Financial Burdens of Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors and Outcomes. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2019; 17:1184-1192. [PMID: 31590147 PMCID: PMC7370695 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2019.7305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cancer experience financial toxicity from the costs of treatment, as well as material and psychologic stress related to this burden. A synthesized understanding of predictors and outcomes of the financial burdens associated with cancer care is needed to underpin strategic responses in oncology care. This study systematically reviewed risk factors and outcomes associated with financial burdens related to cancer treatment. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched from study inception through June 2018, and reference lists were scanned from studies of patient-level predictors and outcomes of financial burdens in US patients with cancer (aged ≥18 years). Two reviewers conducted screening, abstraction, and quality assessment. Variables associated with financial burdens were synthesized. When possible, pooled estimates of associations were calculated using random-effects models. RESULTS A total of 74 observational studies of financial burdens in 598,751 patients with cancer were identified, among which 49% of patients reported material or psychologic financial burdens (95% CI, 41%-56%). Socioeconomic predictors of worse financial burdens with treatment were lack of health insurance, lower income, unemployment, and younger age at cancer diagnosis. Compared with patients with health insurance, those who were uninsured demonstrated twice the odds of financial burdens (pooled odds ratio [OR], 2.09; 95% CI, 1.33-3.30). Financial burdens were most severe early in cancer treatment, did not differ by disease site, and were associated with worse health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and nearly twice the odds of cancer medication nonadherence (pooled OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.13-2.56). Only a single study demonstrated an association with increased mortality. Studies assessing the comparative effectiveness of interventions to mitigate financial burdens in patients with cancer were lacking. CONCLUSIONS Evidence showed that financial burdens are common, disproportionately impacting younger and socioeconomically disadvantaged patients with cancer, across disease sites, and are associated with worse treatment adherence and HRQoL. Available evidence helped identify vulnerable patients needing oncology provider engagement and response, but evidence is critically needed on the effectiveness of interventions designed to mitigate financial burden and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Maria A. Lopez-Olivo
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Pragati G. Advani
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Matthew S. Ning
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yimin Geng
- Research Medical Library, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sharon H. Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert J. Volk
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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27
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Medication rebates and health disparities: Mind the gap. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 16:431-433. [PMID: 31072750 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.04.053] [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: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Compared to white patients in the United States, people of racial and ethnic minority groups face higher rates of chronic disease including diabetes, obesity, stroke, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Minority groups are also less likely to receive medication therapy to manage complications of chronic disease as well as be adherent to these therapies. A recently announced proposed rule by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS OIG), which would discourage rebates between manufacturers and payers in favor of discounts directly provided to patients, has received significant attention for its anticipated impact on prescription drug pricing and reimbursement in Medicare. This commentary describes the proposed rule and how it may impact adherence among patients of racial minority groups through an illustrative case study and discussion.
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28
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Farias AJ, Wu WH, Du XL. Racial differences in long-term adjuvant endocrine therapy adherence and mortality among Medicaid-insured breast cancer patients in Texas: Findings from TCR-Medicaid linked data. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:1214. [PMID: 30514270 PMCID: PMC6280479 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-5121-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are racial/ethnic disparities in breast cancer mortality may be attributed to differences in receipt of adjuvant cancer treatment. Our purpose was to determine whether the mortality disparities could be explained by racial/ethnic differences in long-term adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET). METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study with the Texas Cancer Registry and Medicaid claims-linked dataset of women (20-64 years) diagnosed with local and regional breast cancer who filled a prescription for AET from 2000-2008. Adherence to AET was measured at three time points (1-, 3-, and 5-year adherence) using a value for the percentage of medication filled for each period divided by the total number of possible prescriptions prescribed (Medication Possession Ratio, MPR). We created a binary variable of adherence (MPR≥80%). We performed multivariable logistic regressions to assess racial differences for the odds of AET adherence and Cox proportional hazard models to determine the risk of mortality adjusting for potential confounding variables of SES, comorbidities, tumor prognostic factors, and other cancer treatment. RESULTS Of the 1,497 women with breast cancer who initiated AET, 56.9%, 42.3%, and 33.3% were adherent for 1, 3, and 5-years, respectively. Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic whites did differ in the proportion that were adherent to 5-years of AET. In the adjusted analysis for long-term adherence to AET, Hispanics did not have a significantly increased risk of death compared to non-Hispanic white patients (HR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.58-2.21). However, black compared to non-Hispanic white patients had significantly lower odds of three-year adherence (OR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.28-0.73). After controlling for 5-year adherence to AET, the risk of death for black compared to non-Hispanic white patients was 12% lower (HR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.03-3.51) and in the fully adjusted model, the disparity was reduced and no longer significant (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 0.94-3.66). CONCLUSIONS Long-term adherence in the Medicaid population is suboptimal and racial/ethnic differences in AET adherence may partially explain disparities in mortality. This study underscores the critical need to ensure long-term adherence to AET for all racial/ethnic groups to decrease disparities in mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Farias
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Gehr Family Center for Health Systems Science, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, 2001 N. Soto St., Suite 318B, Los Angeles, CA 90032 USA
| | - Wen-Hsing Wu
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX USA
| | - Xianglin L. Du
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX USA
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29
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Farias AJ, Wu WH, Du XL. Racial and geographic disparities in adherence and discontinuation to adjuvant endocrine therapy in Texas Medicaid-insured patients with breast cancer. Med Oncol 2018; 35:113. [PMID: 29926275 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-018-1168-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the study is to examine disparities in AET adherence and discontinuation among Texas Medicaid-insured early-stage breast cancer patients. Texas Cancer Registry Medicaid-linked database was used from 2000 to 2007 for breast cancer patients aged 20-64. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to test the association of race/ethnicity and geographic factors with AET adherence and discontinuation. Of the 1240 women with breast cancer, 60.8% of non-Hispanic white vs 46.6% of Black patients were adherent to AET in the first year. After adjusting for confounding, Black patients had lower odds of adherence compared to non-Hispanic white patients (Odds ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.44-0.87), but they were not more likely to discontinue therapy during the study period. Patients from the Texas/Mexico border had higher odds of adherence compared to other regions (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.29-4.18). There are substantial racial and geographic disparities in AET adherence and discontinuation among Texas Medicaid-insured women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J Farias
- Department of Preventive Medicine, The Gehr Family Center for Health Systems Science, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, 2001 N. Soto St, Suite 318B, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA.
| | - Wen-Hsing Wu
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xianglin L Du
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
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30
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Farias AJ, Du XL. Racial Differences in Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy Use and Discontinuation in Association with Mortality among Medicare Breast Cancer Patients by Receptor Status. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017; 26:1266-1275. [PMID: 28515111 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-17-0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There are racial disparities in breast cancer mortality. Our purpose was to determine whether racial/ethnic differences in use and discontinuation of adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) differed by hormone receptor status and whether discontinuation was associated with mortality.Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study with SEER/Medicare dataset of women age ≥65 years diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer in Medicare Part-D from 2007 to 2009, stratified by hormone receptor status. We performed multivariable logistic regressions to assess racial differences for the odds of AET initiation and Cox proportional hazards models to determine the risk of discontinuation and mortality.Results: Of 14,902 women, 64.5% initiated AET <12 months of diagnosis. Among those with hormone receptor-positive cancer, 74.8% initiated AET compared with 5.6% of women with negative and 54.0% with unknown-receptor status. Blacks were less likely to initiate [OR, 0.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.66-0.88] compared with whites. However, those with hormone receptor-positive disease were less likely to discontinue (HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.98). Women who initiated with aromatase inhibitors had increased risk of discontinuation compared with women who initiated tamoxifen (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.05-1.20). Discontinuation within 12 months was associated with higher risk of all-cause (HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.74-2.00) and cancer-specific mortality (HR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.74-4.38) after controlling for race/ethnicity.Conclusions: There are racial/ethnic differences in AET use and discontinuation. Discontinuing treatment was associated with higher risk of all-cause and cancer-specific mortality regardless of hormone receptor status.Impact: This study underscores the need to study factors that influence discontinuation and the survival benefits of receiving AET for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(8); 1266-75. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J Farias
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas.
| | - Xianglin L Du
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas
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