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Sachedina D, Gibson F, Xia E, Walia A, Behara L, Fazelpour S, Mullins H, Francis J, Sahni D. Skin cancer in renal transplant recipients: outcomes from a safety net hospital in Boston. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:1048-1055. [PMID: 38328999 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.17061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) are prone to skin cancer due to the immunosuppression required to maintain graft function. Existing studies of skin cancer in RTRs focus on patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I-II, with limited documentation of incidence in skin types III-VI. This study seeks to better characterize skin cancers in RTRs with skin types III-VI. PRIMARY AIMS Compare the incidence of skin cancer in RTRs of skin types I-II with skin types III-VI. SECONDARY AIMS Explore the association between the development of skin cancer and other contributing factors in RTRs of skin types I-VI. METHODS Retrospective chart review of RTRs at a single institution between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2022. Patients were followed from the date of transplant to the last clinical follow-up or death. 777 RTRs were included in the study, including 245 patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I-II and 532 with skin types III-VI. A total of 48 patients developed NMSCs, 2 patients developed melanoma, and 3 patients developed Kaposi sarcoma. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS There is a higher incidence of skin cancer in RTRs with Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI compared to the reported incidence among non-transplant recipients of the same skin types, but the incidence remains considerably lower compared to RTR of skin types I-II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilshad Sachedina
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frederick Gibson
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric Xia
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anika Walia
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laxmi Behara
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sherwin Fazelpour
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haley Mullins
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean Francis
- Department of Nephrology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Debjani Sahni
- Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Pedreira-Robles G, Morín-Fraile V, Bach-Pascual A, Graells-Sans A, Garcimartín P. «I can't imagine it without my nurse»: Experiences of people with chronic kidney disease in the evaluation process as kidney transplant candidates. Res Nurs Health 2024. [PMID: 38970457 DOI: 10.1002/nur.22414] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of 11 adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing evaluation for kidney transplant (KT) and examine the role played by the nurse in the process. Employing a descriptive phenomenology approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted between October 2022 and July 2023. Thematic analysis, facilitated by Atlas. ti software, revealed a systemic management diagram with "The candidate for kidney transplant and their reality" at the center, followed by "The process of chronic kidney disease and kidney transplantation," and concluding with the most distal category centered on "The kidney transplant access nurse." This organizational framework provided insights into the layers of relationships between emerging themes. The findings underscored the complexity and multidimensionality of the CKD and KT process, emphasizing the nurse's pivotal role as a guide and protector throughout the evaluation process for accessing kidney transplantation. The convergence of results with existing literature highlighted the need to address challenges such as lack of time, resources, and emotional support to enhance the quality of care. Recognizing the nurse's crucial importance in this process, the study emphasizes the significance of addressing these challenges to improve patient care and calls for attention to the nurse's role in guiding individuals through the intricate journey of CKD and kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Pedreira-Robles
- Nephrology department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- ESIMar (Mar Nursing School). Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Pompeu Fabra affiliated, Barcelona, Spain
- Social Determinants and Health Education Research Group (SDHEd), Hospital del Mar Institute for Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- Nursing and Health PhD Program, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victoria Morín-Fraile
- Department of Public Health, Mental Health, and Maternal and Child Health, Faculty of Nursing, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Bach-Pascual
- Nephrology department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ariadna Graells-Sans
- ESIMar (Mar Nursing School). Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Pompeu Fabra affiliated, Barcelona, Spain
- Social Determinants and Health Education Research Group (SDHEd), Hospital del Mar Institute for Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paloma Garcimartín
- Nursing department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Research Group in Nursing Care, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Network Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, (CIBERCV, Carlos III Health Institute), Madrid, Spain
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Green SM, Spaulding AC, Brennan ER, Jarmi T. Comparison Between Black Non-Hispanic and White Non-Hispanic Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney Transplant Candidates and Recipients. Clin Transplant 2024; 38:e15392. [PMID: 38967601 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study examined simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant (SPKt) in Black and White patients to identify disparities in transplantation, days on the waitlist, and reasons for SPKt waitlist removal. METHODS Using the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant Analysis and Research file, patients between January 1, 2009, and May 31, 2021, were included. Three cohorts (overall, SPKt recipients only, and those not transplanted) were selected using propensity score matching. Conditional logistic regression was used for categorical outcomes. Days on the waitlist were compared using negative binomial regression. RESULTS Black patients had increased odds of receiving a SPKt (OR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.11-1.40], p < 0.001). White patients had increased odds of receiving a kidney-only transplant (OR 0.48 [95% CI, 0.38-0.61], p < 0.001), and specifically increased odds of receiving a living donor kidney (OR 0.34 [0.25-0.45], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study found that Black patients are more likely to receive a SPKt. Results suggest that there are opportunities for additional inquiry related to patient removal from the waitlist, particularly considering White patients received or accepted more kidney-only transplants and were more likely to receive a living donor kidney-only transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawna M Green
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Aaron C Spaulding
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Emily R Brennan
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Tambi Jarmi
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Kaur R, Schick-Makaroff K, Dang P, Sasaki A, Neves P, Mucsi I, Gill J. Navigating Living Kidney Donation and Transplantation Among South Asian Canadians: The ACTION Project. Am J Kidney Dis 2024; 83:750-761.e1. [PMID: 38242424 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE South Asian (SA) Canadians with kidney failure have a 50%-77% lower likelihood of kidney transplant and are less likely to identify potential living donors (LDs). This study aimed to identify health system-, patient-, and community-level barriers and facilitators for accessing LD kidney transplantation in the SA community to inform the development of health system- and community-level interventions to address barriers. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS 20 SA recipients of an LD or deceased-donor kidney transplant, 10 SA LDs, and 41 general SA community members. ANALYTICAL APPROACH In-depth multilingual interviews were conducted with recipients and LDs. Gender-, language-, and age-stratified focus groups were conducted with general SA community members. Summative content analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Hesitancy in approaching potential donors, fear about the health of potential LDs, information gaps, language barriers, and challenges evaluating out-of-country donors were highlighted as significant barriers by recipients, and financial concerns and information gaps were identified by donors. Cultural barriers in the SA community were highlighted by donors, recipients, and community members as critical factors when considering donation and transplant; women and elderly SA Canadians highlighted nuanced challenges. Participants reported generally a favorable perception of their health care teams, citing SA representation in the teams as important to providing culturally and linguistically sensitive care. LIMITATIONS Limited geographic, race, and cultural representation and reliance on virtual data collection. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights several culturally relevant barriers to donation and transplant that are potentially modifiable through patient-, health system-, and community-focused engagement and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetinder Kaur
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Phuc Dang
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ayumi Sasaki
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paula Neves
- Centre for Living Organ Donation, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Ajmera Transplant Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jagbir Gill
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, and Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Sandal S, Ahn J, Chen Y, Thompson V, Purnell TS, Cantarovich M, Clark-Cutaia MN, Wu W, Suri R, Segev DL, McAdams-DeMarco M. Differences in Racial and Ethnic Disparities Between First and Repeat Kidney Transplantation. Transplantation 2024:00007890-990000000-00761. [PMID: 38771099 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000005051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent data suggest patients with graft failure had better access to repeat kidney transplantation (re-KT) than transplant-naive dialysis accessing first KT. This was postulated to be because of better familiarity with the transplant process and healthcare system; whether this advantage is equitably distributed is not known. We compared the magnitude of racial/ethnic disparities in access to re-KT versus first KT. METHODS Using United States Renal Data System, we identified 104 454 White, Black, and Hispanic patients with a history of graft failure from 1995 to 2018, and 2 357 753 transplant-naive dialysis patients. We used adjusted Cox regression to estimate disparities in access to first and re-KT and whether the magnitude of these disparities differed between first and re-KT using a Wald test. RESULTS Black patients had inferior access to both waitlisting and receiving first KT and re-KT. However, the racial/ethnic disparities in waitlisting for (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74-0.80) and receiving re-KT (aHR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.58-0.64) was greater than the racial/ethnic disparities in first KT (waitlisting: aHR = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.90-0.93; Pinteraction = 0.001; KT: aHR = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.64-0.72; Pinteraction < 0.001). For Hispanic patients, ethnic disparities in waitlisting for re-KT (aHR = 0.83; 95% CI, 0.79-0.88) were greater than for first KT (aHR = 1.14; 95% CI, 1.11-1.16; Pinteraction < 0.001). However, the disparity in receiving re-KT (aHR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.72-0.80) was similar to that for first KT (aHR = 0.73; 95% CI, 0.68-0.79; Pinteraction = 0.55). Inferences were similar when restricting the cohorts to the Kidney Allocation System era. CONCLUSIONS Unlike White patients, Black and Hispanic patients with graft failure do not experience improved access to re-KT. This suggests that structural and systemic barriers likely persist for racialized patients accessing re-KT, and systemic changes are needed to achieve transplant equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaifali Sandal
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - JiYoon Ahn
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Yusi Chen
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Valerie Thompson
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Tanjala S Purnell
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Marcelo Cantarovich
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Wenbo Wu
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Rita Suri
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Dorry L Segev
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Mara McAdams-DeMarco
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Langone Health, New York, NY
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Li Y, Menon G, Kim B, Bae S, Quint EE, Clark-Cutaia MN, Wu W, Thompson VL, Crews DC, Purnell TS, Thorpe RJ, Szanton SL, Segev DL, McAdams DeMarco MA. Neighborhood Segregation and Access to Live Donor Kidney Transplantation. JAMA Intern Med 2024; 184:402-413. [PMID: 38372985 PMCID: PMC10877505 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2023.8184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Importance Identifying the mechanisms of structural racism, such as racial and ethnic segregation, is a crucial first step in addressing the persistent disparities in access to live donor kidney transplantation (LDKT). Objective To assess whether segregation at the candidate's residential neighborhood and transplant center neighborhood is associated with access to LDKT. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cohort study spanning January 1995 to December 2021, participants included non-Hispanic Black or White adult candidates for first-time LDKT reported in the US national transplant registry. The median (IQR) follow-up time for each participant was 1.9 (0.6-3.0) years. Main Outcome and Measures Segregation, measured using the Theil H method to calculate segregation tertiles in zip code tabulation areas based on the American Community Survey 5-year estimates, reflects the heterogeneity in neighborhood racial and ethnic composition. To quantify the likelihood of LDKT by neighborhood segregation, cause-specific hazard models were adjusted for individual-level and neighborhood-level factors and included an interaction between segregation tertiles and race. Results Among 162 587 candidates for kidney transplant, the mean (SD) age was 51.6 (13.2) years, 65 141 (40.1%) were female, 80 023 (49.2%) were Black, and 82 564 (50.8%) were White. Among Black candidates, living in a high-segregation neighborhood was associated with 10% (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 0.90 [95% CI, 0.84-0.97]) lower access to LDKT relative to residence in low-segregation neighborhoods; no such association was observed among White candidates (P for interaction = .01). Both Black candidates (AHR, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.89-1.00]) and White candidates (AHR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.88-0.97]) listed at transplant centers in high-segregation neighborhoods had lower access to LDKT relative to their counterparts listed at centers in low-segregation neighborhoods (P for interaction = .64). Within high-segregation transplant center neighborhoods, candidates listed at predominantly minority neighborhoods had 17% lower access to LDKT relative to candidates listed at predominantly White neighborhoods (AHR, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.75-0.92]). Black candidates residing in or listed at transplant centers in predominantly minority neighborhoods had significantly lower likelihood of LDKT relative to White candidates residing in or listed at transplant centers located in predominantly White neighborhoods (65% and 64%, respectively). Conclusions Segregated residential and transplant center neighborhoods likely serve as a mechanism of structural racism, contributing to persistent racial disparities in access to LDKT. To promote equitable access, studies should assess targeted interventions (eg, community outreach clinics) to improve support for potential candidates and donors and ultimately mitigate the effects of segregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Li
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Gayathri Menon
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Byoungjun Kim
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Sunjae Bae
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Evelien E Quint
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maya N Clark-Cutaia
- New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York, New York
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Wenbo Wu
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Valerie L Thompson
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Deidra C Crews
- Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tanjala S Purnell
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Health Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Equity, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Roland J Thorpe
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Equity, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sarah L Szanton
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Dorry L Segev
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Mara A McAdams DeMarco
- Department of Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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Calvelli H, Gardiner H, Gadegbeku C, Reese P, Obradovic Z, Fink E, Gillespie A. A Social Network Analysis of Hemodialysis Clinics: Attitudes Toward Living Donor Kidney Transplant among Influential Patients. KIDNEY360 2024; 5:577-588. [PMID: 38324254 PMCID: PMC11093547 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Key Points Hemodialysis clinic social networks spread attitudes and behaviors toward kidney transplants. Identifying and characterizing influential patients is a first step in future hemodialysis clinic social network interventions to promote kidney transplantation. Background Hemodialysis clinics help develop patient social networks that may spread kidney transplant (KT) attitudes and behaviors. Identifying influential social network members is an important first step to increase KT rates. We mapped the social networks of two hemodialysis facilities to identify which patients were influential using in-degree centrality as a proxy for popularity and influence. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we performed a sociocentric social network analysis of patients on hemodialysis in two geographically and demographically different hemodialysis facilities. Statistical and social network analyses were performed using R statistical software. Results More patients at facility 1 (N =71) were waitlisted/evaluating living donor KT (50.7% versus 20.0%, P = 0.021), considered KT as very important (70.4% versus 45.0%, P = 0.019), and knew people who received a successful KT (1.0 versus 0.0, P = 0.003). Variables predicting relationship formation at facility 1 were the same shift (β =1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.19 to 2.55]; P < 0.0001), same sex (β =0.51, 95% CI [0.01 to 1.00]; P = 0.045), younger age (β =−0.03, 95% CI [−0.05 to −0.01]; P = 0.004), different lengths of time on hemodialysis (β =−0.49, 95% CI [−0.86 to −0.12]; P = 0.009), and knowing more people who received a successful KT (β =0.12, 95% CI [0.03 to 0.21]; P = 0.009). Predictive variables at facility 2 (N =40) were the same race (β =2.52, 95% CI [0.39 to 4.65]; P = 0.021) and knowing fewer people with successful KT (β =−0.92, 95% CI [−1.82 to −0.02]; P = 0.045). In-degree centrality was higher at facility 1 (1.1±1.2) compared with facility 2 (0.6±0.9). Conclusions Social networks differed between the hemodialysis clinics in structure and prevalent transplant attitudes. Influential patients at facility 1 (measured by in-degree centrality) had positive attitudes toward KT, whereas influential patients at facility 2 had negative attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Calvelli
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Heather Gardiner
- Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Crystal Gadegbeku
- Cleveland Clinic Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Peter Reese
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Zoran Obradovic
- Temple University Center for Data Analytics and Biomedical Informatics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Edward Fink
- Temple University School of Media and Communication, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Kassam AF, Cameron AM. No transplant candidate left behind. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:337-338. [PMID: 38108821 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Al-Faraaz Kassam
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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9
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El-Khoury B, Yang TC. Reviewing Racial Disparities in Living Donor Kidney Transplantation: a Socioecological Approach. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:928-937. [PMID: 36991297 PMCID: PMC10057682 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01573-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Despite kidney transplantation having superior outcomes to dialytic therapies, disparities continue to exist among rates of kidney transplantation between Black and non-Hispanic White patients, which cannot be explained by differences in individual characteristics. To better evaluate the persistent Black/White disparities in living kidney transplantation, we review the extant literature and include the critical factors and recent development in living kidney transplantation in the socioecological approach. We also emphasize the potential vertical and hierarchical associations among factors in the socioecological model. Specifically, this review explores the possibility that the relatively low living kidney transplantation among Blacks may be a consequence of individual, interpersonal, and structural inequalities in various social and cultural dimensions. At the individual level, the Black/White differences in socioeconomic conditions and transplant knowledge may account for the low transplantation rates among Blacks. Interpersonally, the relatively weak social support and poor communication between Black patients and their providers may contribute to disparities. At the structural level, the race-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR) calculation that is widely used to screen Black donors is a barrier to receiving living kidney transplantation. This factor is directly related to structural racism in the health care system but its potential impact on living donor transplantation is underexplored. Finally, this literature review emphasizes the current perspective that a race-free GFR should be considered and a multidisciplinary and interprofessional perspective is necessary to devise strategies and interventions to reduce the Black/White disparities in living donor kidney transplantation in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir El-Khoury
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA.
- Civilian Institution Programs, Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH, USA.
| | - Tse-Chuan Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA
- Department of Sociology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, USA
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Zhu M, Arinze N, Buitron de la Vega P, Alonso A, Levin S, Farber A, King E, Kobzeva-Herzog A, Chitalia VC, Siracuse JJ. High Prevalence of Adverse Social Determinants of Health in Dialysis Access Creation Patients in a Safety-Net Setting. Ann Vasc Surg 2024; 100:31-38. [PMID: 38110081 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2023.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients receiving dialysis access surgery are often exposed to adverse social determinants of health (SDH) that negatively impact their care. Our goal was to characterize these factors experienced by our arteriovenous dialysis access patients and identify differences in health outcomes based on their SDH. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent dialysis access creation (2017-2021) and were screened for SDH at a clinical visit (using THRIVE survey) implemented at an urban, safety-net hospital institution within 1 year of access creation. Demographics, procedural details, early postoperative outcomes, survey responses, and referral to our hospital's preventive food pantry were recorded. Univariable analysis and multivariable analyses were performed to assess for associations with key health outcomes. RESULTS There were 190 patients who responded to the survey within 1 year of their operation. At least 1 adverse SDH was identified in 42 (22%) patients. Normalized to number of respondents for each question, adverse SDH identified were difficulty obtaining transportation to medical appointments (18%), food insecurity (16%), difficulty affording utilities (13%), difficulty affording medication (12%), unemployed and seeking employment (9%), unstable housing (7%), difficulty caring for family/friends (6%), and desiring more education (5%). There were 71 (37%) patients who received food pantry referrals. Mean age was 60 years and 38% of patients were female and 64% were Black. More than half of patients (57%) had a tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) at the time of access creation. Dialysis accesses created were brachiocephalic (39%), brachiobasilic (25%), radiocephalic fistulas (16%), and arteriovenous grafts (14%). Thirty-day emergency department (ED) visits, 30-day readmissions, and 90-day mortality occurred in 23%, 21%, and 2%, respectively. On univariable and multivariable analyses, any adverse SDH determined on survey and food pantry referral were not associated with preoperative dialysis through TDCs, receiving nonautogenous dialysis access, 30-day ED visits and readmissions, or 90-day mortality. CONCLUSION Nearly a quarter of dialysis access surgery patients at a safety-net hospital experienced adverse SDH and more than one-third received a food pantry referral. Most common difficulties experienced include difficulty obtaining transportation to medical appointments, food insecurity, and difficulty paying for utilities and medication. Although there were no differences in postoperative outcomes, the high prevalence of these adverse SDH warrants prioritization of resources in this population to ensure healthy equity and further investigation into their effects on health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Zhu
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Nkiruka Arinze
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Pablo Buitron de la Vega
- Division of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Andrea Alonso
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Scott Levin
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Alik Farber
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Elizabeth King
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Anna Kobzeva-Herzog
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Vipul C Chitalia
- Division of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Jeffrey J Siracuse
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA.
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11
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Kukla A, Kudva YC, Navratil P, Sahi SS, Benzo RP, Fipps DC, Erickson AE, Majorowicz RR, Clark MM, Schinstock CA, Shah P, Shah M, Diwan TS. Management of Patients With Kidney Disease Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Mayo Clin Proc 2024; 99:445-458. [PMID: 38432750 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2023.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Bariatric surgery is increasingly recognized as a safe and effective treatment for obesity in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including stages 4, 5, and 5D (on dialysis). Among the available surgical methods, sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most commonly performed weight loss procedure and is mainly done to facilitate kidney transplantation (KT). However, many KT candidates treated with SG remain on the transplant waiting list for months to years, with some never receiving a transplant. Therefore, appropriate candidates for SG must be selected, and post-SG management should address the unique needs of this population, with a focus on sustaining the metabolic benefits of surgery while minimizing potential side effects related to rapid weight loss which may inadvertently lead to muscle and bone catabolism. Multidisciplinary post-SG care in this population may lead to overall better health on the transplant waiting list, resulting in a higher percentage of post-SG patients ultimately receiving KT. To tailor the effective treatment for these patients, clinicians should acknowledge that patients with CKD stage 4-5D have different nutritional needs and are metabolically and psychosocially distinct from the general bariatric surgery population. Sarcopenia is highly prevalent and may be exacerbated by muscle catabolism following SG if not adequately addressed. Blood pressure, glucose, and bone metabolism are all affected by the CKD stage 4-5D, and therefore require distinct diagnostic and management approaches. Long-standing chronic disease, associated comorbidities, and low adherence to medical therapies require ongoing comprehensive psychosocial assessment and support. This paper aims to review and consolidate the existing literature concerning the intersection of CKD stage 4-5D and the consequences of SG. We also suggest future clinical outcome studies examining novel treatment approaches for this medically complex population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Kukla
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Von Liebig Transplant Center, Department of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA.
| | - Yogish C Kudva
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Pavel Navratil
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Urology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, and Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Sukhdeep S Sahi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Roberto P Benzo
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David C Fipps
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Avery E Erickson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Rachael R Majorowicz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Matthew M Clark
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Carrie A Schinstock
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Von Liebig Transplant Center, Department of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Pankaj Shah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Meera Shah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Tayyab S Diwan
- Von Liebig Transplant Center, Department of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
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12
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Hoffman AL, Westphal SG, Wekesa D, Miles CD. Impact of OPTN policy 3.7D providing waiting time modification for candidates affected by race-inclusive eGFR calculations: Early results from a single center. Clin Transplant 2024; 38:e15273. [PMID: 38516921 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION OPTN Policy 3.7D, implemented January 5, 2023, mandates that all kidney transplant programs modify waiting time for candidates affected by race-inclusive eGFR calculations. We report the early impact of this policy change. METHODS Our transplant program reviewed all listed transplant candidates and identified patients potentially eligible for waiting time modification. Eligible candidates received waiting time modification after submission of supporting evidence to the OPTN. We reviewed the impact on waiting time and transplant activity through October 1, 2023. RESULTS Forty-six adult patients on our center's active waiting list self-identified as Black/African American. 25 (54.3%) candidates qualified for waiting time modification. A median 451 (321, 1543.5) additional days of waiting time was added for qualifying patients. Of the 25 patients who qualified for waiting time modification, 11 patients received a deceased donor kidney in the early period following waiting time modification, including 5 patients transplanted within 1 month after modification. CONCLUSIONS Policy 3.7D is one of few national mandates to address specifically structural racism within transplantation. Implementation has yielded near immediate effects with greater than 40% of time-adjusted patients at our center receiving a deceased donor kidney transplant in the initial months after policy enactment. Early assessment demonstrates great potential impact for this policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arika L Hoffman
- Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Scott G Westphal
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Debra Wekesa
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Clifford D Miles
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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13
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Loor JM, Ford CG, Leyva Y, Swift S, Ng YH, Zhu Y, Dew MA, Peipert JD, Unruh ML, Croswell E, Kendall K, Puttarajappa C, Shapiro R, Myaskovsky L. Do pre-transplant cultural factors predict health-related quality of life after kidney transplantation? Clin Transplant 2024; 38:e15256. [PMID: 38400674 PMCID: PMC11249207 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-transplant health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is associated with health outcomes for kidney transplant (KT) recipients. However, pretransplant predictors of improvements in post-transplant HRQOL remain incompletely understood. Namely, important pretransplant cultural factors, such as experience of discrimination, perceived racism in healthcare, or mistrust of the healthcare system, have not been examined as potential HRQOL predictors. Also, few have examined predictors of decline in HRQOL post-transplant. METHODS Using data from a prospective cohort study, we examined HRQOL change pre- to post-transplant, and novel cultural predictors of the change. We measured physical, mental, and kidney-specific HRQOL as outcomes, and used cultural factors as predictors, controlling for demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and transplant knowledge covariates. RESULTS Among 166 KT recipients (57% male; mean age 50.6 years; 61.4% > high school graduates; 80% non-Hispanic White), we found mental and physical, but not kidney-specific, HRQOL significantly improved post-transplant. No culturally related factors outside of medical mistrust significantly predicted change in any HRQOL outcome. Instead, demographic, knowledge, and clinical factors significantly predicted decline in each HRQOL domain: physical HRQOL-older age, more post-KT complications, higher pre-KT physical HRQOL; mental HRQOL-having less information pre-KT, greater pre-KT mental HRQOL; and, kidney-specific HRQOL-poorer kidney functioning post-KT, lower expectations for physical condition to improve, and higher pre-KT kidney-specific HRQOL. CONCLUSIONS Instead of cultural factors, predictors of HRQOL decline included demographic, knowledge, and clinical factors. These findings are useful for identifying patient groups that may be at greater risk of poorer post-transplant outcomes, in order to target individualized support to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M Loor
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - C Graham Ford
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yuridia Leyva
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Samuel Swift
- College of Population Health, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Yue Harn Ng
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yiliang Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Mary Amanda Dew
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - J Devin Peipert
- Department of Medical Social Sciences and Transplant Outcomes Research Collaboration, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mark L Unruh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Emilee Croswell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Chethan Puttarajappa
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ron Shapiro
- Mount Sinai Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Larissa Myaskovsky
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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14
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Hurst DJ, Cooper DKC. Pressing ethical issues relating to clinical pig organ transplantation studies. Xenotransplantation 2024; 31:e12848. [PMID: 38407936 DOI: 10.1111/xen.12848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Clinical pig heart transplant experiments have been undertaken, and further clinical experiments and/or clinical trials of gene-edited pig organ xenotransplantation are anticipated. The ethical issues relating to xenotransplantation have been discussed for decades but with little resolution. Consideration of certain ethical issues is more urgent than others, and the need to attain consensus is important. These issues include: (i) patient selection criteria for expanded access and/or clinical trials; (ii) appropriate protection of the patient from xenozoonoses, that is, infections caused by pig microorganisms transferred with the organ graft, (iii) minimization of the risk of a xenozoonosis to bystanders, and (iv) the need for additional public perception studies. We discuss why it is important and urgent to achieve consensus on these ethical issues prior to carrying out further expanded access experiments or initiating formal clinical trials. The ways forward on each issue are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Hurst
- Department of Family Medicine, Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - David K C Cooper
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Shawwa K, Thompson J, Chaudhary V, Parravani A, Poling M, Pellegrino B, Schmidt R. Transplantation, Waitlist Status, and County Indices of Economic Health in West Virginia. KIDNEY360 2024; 5:73-79. [PMID: 37974322 PMCID: PMC10833601 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Key Points Patients with ESKD coming from impoverished counties are less likely to be waitlisted or transplanted. Insurance status modified the relationship between county poverty rates and waitlisting/transplant. Background Kidney transplantation is the optimal treatment for patients with ESKD. Given lower rates of kidney transplant in West Virginia (WV), we searched for potential predictors, focusing on the indices of economic health. Methods Data on the initiation of RRT, being waitlisted for, and receiving a kidney transplant between 1965 and 2020 were collected from United States Renal Data System. Data on county poverty rate (PR) and economic distress were collected from the Appalachian Regional Commission. Results Of the 23,055 WV patients identified, 2999 (13%) were transplanted compared with 514,050 (15.3%) for the rest of the United States (P < 0.001). Patients who never received a kidney transplant were from counties with higher PRs (17.95%) compared with transplanted patients (17.44%; P < 0.001). Waitlisted patients (2,375) came from counties with lower PRs than those who were never waitlisted (17.48 versus 17.94%; P < 0.001). Waitlisted patients were less likely to be from distressed or at-risk counties (32 versus 34.3%; P = 0.05) than patients who were never waitlisted. In multivariable logistic regression, county PR remained an independent predictor of being transplanted (odds ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.85 to 0.97; P = 0.008) or waitlisted (odds ratio, 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.84 to 0.96; P = 0.001) per 5% increase in PR after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, alcohol use, functional status, and comorbid medical conditions. Group/employer health insurance seemed to modify the relationship between PR and waitlist, where PR remained an independent predictor of waitlisting among patients with insurance. Conclusions Waitlisted patients and transplant recipients from WV were more likely to hail from counties with lower PRs and those in better economic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Shawwa
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Jesse Thompson
- Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Vishy Chaudhary
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Anthony Parravani
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Mark Poling
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Bethany Pellegrino
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Rebecca Schmidt
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia
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16
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Reed RD, Locke JE. Mitigating Health Disparities in Transplantation Requires Equity, Not Equality. Transplantation 2024; 108:100-114. [PMID: 38098158 PMCID: PMC10796154 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004630] [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] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite decades of research and evidence-based mitigation strategies, disparities in access to transplantation persist for all organ types and in all stages of the transplant process. Although some strategies have shown promise for alleviating disparities, others have fallen short of the equity goal by providing the same tools and resources to all rather than tailoring the tools and resources to one's circumstances. Innovative solutions that engage all stakeholders are needed to achieve equity regardless of race, sex, age, socioeconomic status, or geography. Mitigation of disparities is paramount to ensure fair and equitable access for those with end-stage disease and to preserve the trust of the public, upon whom we rely for their willingness to donate organs. In this overview, we present a summary of recent literature demonstrating persistent disparities by stage in the transplant process, along with policies and interventions that have been implemented to combat these disparities and hypotheses for why some strategies have been more effective than others. We conclude with future directions that have been proposed by experts in the field and how these suggested strategies may help us finally arrive at equity in transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon D. Reed
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Jayme E. Locke
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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17
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Kucirka LM, Angarita AM, Manuck TA, Boggess KA, Derebail VK, Wood ME, Meyer ML, Segev DL, Reynolds ML. Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients With Pregnancy-Related End-Stage Kidney Disease. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2346314. [PMID: 38064217 PMCID: PMC10709776 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The incidence of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury is increasing and is associated with significant maternal morbidity including progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Little is known about characteristics and long-term outcomes of patients who develop pregnancy-related ESKD. Objectives To examine the characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients with pregnancy-related ESKD and to investigate associations between pre-ESKD nephrology care and outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cohort study of 183 640 reproductive-aged women with incident ESKD between January 1, 2000, and November 20, 2020, from the US Renal Data System and maternal data from births captured in the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publicly available natality data. Data were analyzed from December 2022 to June 2023. Exposure Pregnancy-related primary cause of ESKD, per International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) and ICD-10 codes reported at ESKD onset by the primary nephrologist on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services form 2728. Main Outcomes Measures Multivariable Cox proportional hazards and competing risk models were constructed to examine time to (1) mortality, (2) access to kidney transplant (joining the waiting list or receiving a live donor transplant), and (3) receipt of transplant after joining the waitlist. Results A total of 341 patients with a pregnancy-related primary cause of ESKD were identified (mean [SD] age 30.2 [7.3]). Compared with the general US birthing population, Black patients were overrepresented among those with pregnancy-related ESKD (109 patients [31.9%] vs 585 268 patients [16.2%]). In adjusted analyses, patients with pregnancy-related ESKD had similar or lower hazards of mortality compared with those with glomerulonephritis or cystic kidney disease (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.96; 95% CI, 0.76-1.19), diabetes or hypertension (aHR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.39-0.61), or other or unknown primary causes of ESKD (aHR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.48-0.75). Despite this, patients with pregnancy-related ESKD had significantly lower access to kidney transplant compared with those with other causes of ESKD, including (1) glomerulonephritis or cystic kidney disease (adjusted subhazard ratio [aSHR], 0.51; 95% CI, 0.43-0.66), (2) diabetes or hypertension (aSHR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.67-0.98), and (3) other or unkown cause (aSHR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.67-0.99). Those with pregnancy-related ESKD were less likely to have nephrology care or have a graft or arteriovenous fistula placed before ESKD onset (nephrology care: adjusted relative risk [aRR], 0.47; 95% CI, 0.40-0.56; graft or arteriovenous fistula placed: aRR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.17-0.57). Conclusion and Relevance In this study, those with pregnancy-related ESKD had reduced access to transplant and nephrology care, which could exacerbate existing disparities in a disproportionately Black population. Increased access to care could improve quality of life and health outcomes among these young adults with high potential for long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Kucirka
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Ana M. Angarita
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Tracy A. Manuck
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kim A. Boggess
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Vimal K. Derebail
- UNC Kidney Center, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Mollie E. Wood
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Michelle L. Meyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Dorry L. Segev
- Division of Transplant, Department of Surgery, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
| | - Monica L. Reynolds
- UNC Kidney Center, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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18
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von Samson-Himmelstjerna FA, Kolbrink B, Kakavand N, Zacharias HU, Schulte K. The German Transplantation Registry Reveals Deficiencies in the Listing Process for Kidney Transplantation. Kidney Int Rep 2023; 8:2701-2708. [PMID: 38106602 PMCID: PMC10719593 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2023.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The time from dialysis onset to enrollment on the kidney waiting list (listing time) is a crucial step on the path to receiving a kidney allograft; however, this process has received very little research attention in the Eurotransplant (ET) area. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data from the German transplantation registry, including patients who were on the waiting list for a first kidney transplant in Germany between 2006 and 2016. Listing time was evaluated using a mixed linear model. The outcomes on the kidney waiting list were assessed using competing risk analyses. Results We assessed a total of 43,955 patients. Listing occurred at a higher pace in patients receiving living donor transplantations (median 0.4 years from dialysis onset) than in deceased donor transplantations (Eurotransplant Kidney Allocation System [ETKAS] 1.1 years, European Senior Program [ESP] 1.4 years, Acceptable Mismatch program 1.3 years), with 28.5% of living donor transplantations performed preemptively. There was only modest variation in listing time between the transplant centers. Patients with a history of viral infection, high immunization; hemodialysis patients; and patients with a higher body mass index (BMI) had a delayed listing process. Two of 3 patients listed in the ETKAS, excluding those with potential bonus points (pediatric, other organ transplantations), were eventually transplanted. Older patients, male patients, patients with blood type O, and patients with diabetic nephropathy as the underlying renal disease had the highest risk not to proceed to transplantation. Conclusion Although long waiting times remain the biggest hurdle for transplantation in Germany, there is ample room for improvement of the listing process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benedikt Kolbrink
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Nassim Kakavand
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Helena U. Zacharias
- Peter L. Reichertz Institute for Medical Informatics of TU Braunschweig and Hannover Medical School, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kevin Schulte
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
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Patel S, Alfafara C, Kraus MB, Buckner-Petty S, Bonner T, Youssef MR, Poterack KA, Mour G, Mathur AK, Milam AJ. Individual- and Community-Level Socioeconomic Status and Deceased Donor Renal Transplant Outcomes. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01851-8. [PMID: 37962790 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01851-8] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), race, and ethnicity and clinical outcomes following deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) at a high-volume transplant center. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used regression models and survival analyses to examine the relationship between individual- and community-level SES, race, and ethnicity and DDKT outcomes (i.e., delayed graft function, graft failure, mortality) adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS The analytic sample included 3366 patients; 40.7% (n = 1370) were female, the mean age was 54.7 (SD = 13.3) years, 49.3% were non-Hispanic White, and the median follow-up time was 39.5 months (IQR = 24.2-68.1). Patients living in the most disadvantaged communities (using the US Census data) had a higher likelihood of delayed graft function (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 1.12, p = 0.042) and a higher hazard of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.32, p = 0.025) compared to patients living in the least disadvantaged communities. Patients without a high school diploma had a higher risk of delayed graft function compared to patients with an associate degree or more (RR = 1.37, p < 0.001). Patients with public insurance coverage had a higher risk of delayed graft function (RR = 1.24, p < 0.001) and a higher hazard of mortality (HR = 1.37, p < 0.001) and graft failure (HR = 1.71, p < 0.001) compared to patients without public insurance. There were no differences in graft failure or mortality by race and ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS SES was not consistently associated with outcomes following DDKT; however, many of the predictors were associated with delayed graft function. With a large and diverse sample size, these findings further the heterogeneity of the present renal transplant research suggesting the need for further investigation to guide implementation of innovative strategies and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Patel
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA
| | - Chelsea Alfafara
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Molly B Kraus
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Skye Buckner-Petty
- Department of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Timethia Bonner
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mohanad R Youssef
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Karl A Poterack
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Girish Mour
- Division of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Amit K Mathur
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Adam J Milam
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA.
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20
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Buford J, Retzloff S, Wilk AS, McPherson L, Harding JL, Pastan SO, Patzer RE. Race, Age, and Kidney Transplant Waitlisting Among Patients Receiving Incident Dialysis in the United States. Kidney Med 2023; 5:100706. [PMID: 37753250 PMCID: PMC10518364 DOI: 10.1016/j.xkme.2023.100706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale & Objective Patients with kidney failure from racial and ethnic minority groups and older patients have reduced access to the transplant waitlist relative to White and younger patients. Although racial disparities in the waitlisting group have declined after the 2014 kidney allocation system change, whether there is intersectionality of race and age in waitlisting access is unknown. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting & Participants 439,455 non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black US adults initiating dialysis between 2015 and 2019 were identified from the United States Renal Data System, and followed through 2020. Exposures Patient race and ethnicity (non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black) and age group (18-29, 30-49, 50-64, and 65-80 years). Outcomes Placement on the United Network for Organ Sharing deceased donor waitlist. Analytical Approach Age- and race-stratified waitlisting rates were compared. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, censored for death, examined the association between race and waitlisting, and included interaction term for race and age. Results Over a median follow-up period of 1 year, the proportion of non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black patients waitlisted was 20.7% and 20.5%, respectively. In multivariable models, non-Hispanic Black patients were 14% less likely to be waitlisted (aHR, 0.86, 95% CI, 0.77-0.95). Relative differences between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White patients were different by age group. Non-Hispanic Black patients were 27%, 12%, and 20% less likely to be waitlisted than non-Hispanic White patients for ages 18-29 years (aHR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.61-0.86), 50-64 (aHR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.98), and 65-80 years (aHR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.71-0.90), respectively, but differences were attenuated among patients aged 30-49 years (aHR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.77-1.02). Limitations Race and ethnicity data is physician reported, residual confounding, and analysis is limited to non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black patients. Conclusions Racial disparities in waitlisting exist between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White individuals and are most pronounced among younger patients with kidney failure. Results suggest that interventions to address inequalities in waitlisting may need to be targeted to younger patients with kidney failure. Plain-Language Summary Research has shown that patients from racial and ethnic minority groups and older patients have reduced access to transplant waitlisting relative to White and younger patients; nevertheless, how age impacts racial disparities in waitlisting is unknown. We compared waitlisting between non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White patients with incident kidney failure, within age strata, using registry data for 439,455 US adults starting dialysis (18-80 years) during 2015-2019. Overall, non-Hispanic Black patients were less likely to be waitlisted and relative differences between the two racial groups differed by age. After adjusting for patient-level factors, the largest disparity in waitlisting was observed among adults aged 18-29 years. These results suggest that interventions should target younger adults to reduce disparities in access to kidney transplant waitlisting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Buford
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Samantha Retzloff
- HIV Surveillance Branch (HSB), Division of HIV Prevention (DHP), National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Adam S. Wilk
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Laura McPherson
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jessica L. Harding
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Health Services Research Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Stephen O. Pastan
- Department of Medicine, Renal Division, Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Rachel E. Patzer
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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21
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Zhu M, Mota L, Farber A, Schermerhorn ML, King E, Alonso A, Kobzeva-Herzog A, Morrissey N, Malas M, Siracuse JJ. The impact of neighborhood social disadvantage on presentation and management of first-time hemodialysis access surgery patients. J Vasc Surg 2023; 78:1041-1047.e1. [PMID: 37331447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2023.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The impact of social determinants of health on the presentation, management, and outcomes of patients requiring hemodialysis (HD) arteriovenous (AV) access creation have not been well-characterized. The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) is a validated measure of aggregate community-level social determinants of health disparities experienced by members living within a community. Our goal was to examine the effect of ADI on health outcomes for first-time AV access patients. METHODS We identified patients who underwent first-time HD access surgery in the Vascular Quality Initiative between July 2011 to May 2022. Patient zip codes were correlated with an ADI quintile, defined as quintile 1 (Q1) to quintile 5 (Q5) from least to most disadvantaged. Patients without ADI were excluded. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative outcomes considering ADI were analyzed. RESULTS There were 43,292 patients analyzed. The average age was 63 years, 43% were female, 60% were of White race, 34% were of Black race, 10% were of Hispanic ethnicity, and 85% received autogenous AV access. Patient distribution by ADI quintile was as follows: Q1 (16%), Q2 (18%), Q3 (21%), Q4 (23%), and Q5 (22%). On multivariable analysis, the most disadvantaged quintile (Q5) was associated with lower rates of autogenous AV access creation (OR, 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74-0.90; P < .001), preoperative vein mapping (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.45-0.71; P < .001), access maturation (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.71-0.95; P = .007), and 1-year survival (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.71-0.91; P = .001) compared with Q1. Q5 was associated with higher 1-year intervention rates than Q1 on univariable analysis, but not on multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS The patients undergoing AV access creation who were most socially disadvantaged (Q5) were more likely to experience lower rates of autogenous access creation, obtaining vein mapping, access maturation, and 1-year survival compared with the most socially advantaged (Q1). Improvement in preoperative planning and long-term follow-up may be an opportunity for advancing health equity in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Zhu
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Lucas Mota
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Alik Farber
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Marc L Schermerhorn
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Elizabeth King
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Andrea Alonso
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Anna Kobzeva-Herzog
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Nicholas Morrissey
- Division of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Mahmoud Malas
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Jeffrey J Siracuse
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA.
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22
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Dawson AE, Ray Bignall ON, Spencer JD, McLeod DJ. A Call to Comprehensively Understand Our Patients to Provide Equitable Pediatric Urological Care. Urology 2023; 179:126-135. [PMID: 37393019 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Dawson
- Division of Psychology and Neuropsychology, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; The Kidney and Urinary Tract Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - O N Ray Bignall
- The Kidney and Urinary Tract Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - John David Spencer
- The Kidney and Urinary Tract Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Daryl J McLeod
- The Kidney and Urinary Tract Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Urology, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio.
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23
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Shelton BA, Becker DJ, MacLennan PA, Sen B, Budhwani H, Locke JE. Racial Disparities in Access to the Kidney Transplant Waitlist Among People with Human Immunodeficiency Virus. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:394-402. [PMID: 37566535 PMCID: PMC10457613 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemiology of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has shifted such that Black individuals disproportionately represent incident HIV diagnoses. While risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) among people with HIV (PWH) has declined with effective antiretroviral therapies, a substantial racial disparity in ESKD burden exists with the greatest prevalence among Black PWH. Disparities in waitlisting for kidney transplantation, the optimal treatment for ESKD, exist for both PWH and Black individuals without HIV, but it is unknown whether these characteristics together exacerbate such disparities. Six hundred two thousand six ESKD patients were identified from the United States Renal Data System (January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2017), and HIV-status was determined through Medicare claims. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine waitlisting rates. Multiplicative interaction terms between HIV-status and race were examined. The 6250 PWH were significantly younger, more commonly Black, and less commonly female than those without HIV. HIV-status and race were independently associated with 50% and 12% lower likelihood of waitlisting, respectively [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.36-0.69, p < 0.001; aHR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.87-0.90, p < 0.001]. There was also a significant interaction present between HIV-status and Black race (aHR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.66-0.98, p < 0.001) such that, while HIV-status and Black race were independently associated with decreased waitlisting, the interaction of Black race and HIV-status exacerbated those disparities. While limited by lack of HIV-specific data that may impact inferences with respect to race, additional studies are urgently needed to understand the interplay between HIV risk factors, HIV-stigma, and racism, and how intersectionality may exacerbate disparities in transplantation among PWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A. Shelton
- Department of Public Health, University of Tennessee Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Ryals School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - David J. Becker
- Ryals School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Paul A. MacLennan
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Bisakha Sen
- Ryals School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Henna Budhwani
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Jayme E. Locke
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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24
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Taber DJ, Su Z, Gebregziabher M, Mauldin PD, Morinelli TA, Mahmood AO, Magwood GS, Casey MJ, Scalea JR, Kavarana SM, Baliga PK, Rodrigue JR, DuBay DA. Multilevel Intervention to Improve Racial Equity in Access to Kidney Transplant. J Am Coll Surg 2023; 236:721-727. [PMID: 36728400 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND African Americans (AAs) have reduced access to kidney transplant (KTX). Our center undertook a multilevel quality improvement endeavor to address KTX access barriers, focused on vulnerable populations. This program included dialysis center patient/staff education, embedding telehealth services across South Carolina, partnering with community providers to facilitate testing/procedures, and increased use of high-risk donors. STUDY DESIGN This was a time series analysis from 2017 to 2021 using autoregression to assess trends in equitable access to KTX for AAs. Equity was measured using a modified version of the Kidney Transplant Equity Index (KTEI), defined as the proportion of AAs in South Carolina with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) vs the proportion of AAs initiating evaluation, completing evaluation, waitlisting, and undergoing KTX. A KTEI of 1.00 is considered complete equity; a KTEI of <1.00 is indicative of disparity. RESULTS From January 2017 to September 2021, 11,487 ESKD patients (64.7% AA) were referred, 6,748 initiated an evaluation (62.8% AA), 4,109 completed evaluation (59.7% AA), 2,762 were waitlisted (60.0% AA), and 1,229 underwent KTX (55.3% AA). The KTEI for KTX demonstrated significant improvements in equity. The KTEI for initiated evaluations was 0.89 in 2017, improving to 1.00 in 2021 (p = 0.0045). Completed evaluation KTEI improved from 0.85 to 0.95 (p = 0.0230), while waitlist addition KTEI improved from 0.83 to 0.96 (p = 0.0072). The KTEI for KTX also improved from 0.76 to 0.91, which did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.0657). CONCLUSIONS A multilevel intervention focused on improving access to vulnerable populations was significantly associated with reduced disparities for AAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Taber
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - Zemin Su
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics (Su, Mauldin), Charleston, SC
| | - Mulugeta Gebregziabher
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine (Gebregziabher), Charleston, SC
| | - Patrick D Mauldin
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics (Su, Mauldin), Charleston, SC
| | - Thomas A Morinelli
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - Ammar O Mahmood
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - Gayenell S Magwood
- the University of South Carolina, College of Nursing, Columbia, SC (Magwood)
| | | | - Joseph R Scalea
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - Sam M Kavarana
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - Prabhakar K Baliga
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
| | - James R Rodrigue
- the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Boston, MA (Rodrigue)
| | - Derek A DuBay
- From the Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Transplant Surgery (Taber, Morinelli, Mahmood, Scalea, Kavarana, Baliga, DuBay), Charleston, SC
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25
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Ernst Z, Wilson A, Peña A, Love M, Moore T, Vassar M. Factors associated with health inequities in access to kidney transplantation in the USA: A scoping review. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2023; 37:100751. [PMID: 36958131 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2023.100751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The kidney is the most needed organ for transplantation in the United States. However, demand and scarcity of this organ has caused significant inequities for historically marginalized groups. In this review, we report on the frequency of inequities in all steps of kidney transplantation from 2016 to 2022. Search criteria was based on the National Institute of Health's (NIH) 2022 list of populations who experience health inequities, which includes: race and ethnicity; sex or gender; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer + (LGBTQ+); underserved rural communities; education level; income; and occupation status. We outline steps for future research aimed at assessing interventions and programs to improve health outcomes. METHODS This scoping review was developed following guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. In July 2022, we searched Medline (via PubMed) and Ovid Embase databases to identify articles addressing inequities in access to kidney transplantation in the United States. Articles had to address at least one of the NIH's 2022 health inequity groups. RESULTS Our sample of 44 studies indicate that Black race, female sex or gender, and low socioeconomic status are negatively associated with referral, evaluation, and waitlisting for kidney transplantation. Furthermore, only two studies from our sample investigated LGBTQ+ identity since the NIH's addition of SGM in 2016 regarding access to transplantation. Lastly, we found no detectable trend in studies for the four most investigated inequity groups between 2016 and 2022. CONCLUSION Investigations in inequities for access to kidney transplantation for the two most studied groups, race/ethnicity and sex or gender, have shown no change in frequencies. Regarding race and ethnicity, continued interventions focused on educating Black patients and staff of dialysis facilities may increase transplant rates. Studies aimed at assessing effectiveness of the Kidney Paired Donation program are highly warranted due to incompatibility problems in female patients. The sparse representation for the LGBTQ+ population may be due to a lack of standardized data collection for sexual orientation. We recommend this community be engaged via surveys and further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Ernst
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America.
| | - Andrew Wilson
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America
| | - Andriana Peña
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America
| | - Mitchell Love
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America
| | - Ty Moore
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America
| | - Matt Vassar
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States of America.
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26
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Park C, Schappe T, Peskoe S, Mohottige D, Chan NW, Bhavsar NA, Boulware LE, Pendergast J, Kirk AD, McElroy LM. A comparison of deprivation indices and application to transplant populations. Am J Transplant 2023; 23:377-386. [PMID: 36695687 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2022.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The choice of deprivation index can influence conclusions drawn regarding the extent of deprivation within a community and the identification of the most deprived communities in the United States. This study aimed to determine the degree of correlation among deprivation indices commonly used to characterize transplant populations. We used a retrospective cohort consisting of adults listed for liver or kidney transplants between 2008 and 2018 to compare 4 deprivation indices: neighborhood deprivation index, social deprivation index (SDI), area deprivation index, and social vulnerability index. Pairwise correlation between deprivation indices by transplant referral regions was measured using Spearman correlations of population-weighted medians and upper quartiles. In total, 52 individual variables were used among the 4 deprivation indices with 25% overlap. For both organs, the correlation between the population-weighted 75th percentile of the deprivation indices by transplant referral region was highest between SDI and social vulnerability index (liver and kidney, 0.93) and lowest between area deprivation index and SDI (liver, 0.19 and kidney, 0.15). The choice of deprivation index affects the applicability of research findings across studies examining the relationship between social risk and clinical outcomes. Appropriate application of these measures to transplant populations requires careful index selection based on the intended use and included variable relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Park
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tyler Schappe
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sarah Peskoe
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dinushika Mohottige
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Duke University, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Norine W Chan
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nrupen A Bhavsar
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jane Pendergast
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allan D Kirk
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lisa M McElroy
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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27
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DeLaura I, Anwar IJ, Ladowski J, Patino A, Cantrell S, Sanoff S. Attitudes of patients with renal disease on xenotransplantation: A systematic review. Xenotransplantation 2023; 30:e12794. [PMID: 36880602 DOI: 10.1111/xen.12794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have seen major advancements in xenotransplantation: the first pig-to-human heart transplant, the development of a brain-dead recipient model for kidney xenotransplantation, and the registration of the first xenokidney clinical trial. The attitudes of patients with kidney disease or transplants on xenotransplantation and an assessment of their reservations and considerations regarding the technology are crucial to successful clinical translation and eventual widespread implementation. METHODS This systematic review was registered through PROSPERO (CRD42022344581) prior to initiation of the study and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We included studies that evaluated attitudes towards and willingness to undergo xenotransplantation in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), including those who had already undergone transplantation. MEDLINE (via Ovid), Embase (via Elsevier), and Web of Science (via Clarivate) were searched from database inception to July 15, 2022 by an experienced medical librarian for studies on xenotransplantation and attitudes. Abstracts and full text were screened using Covidence software and data items regarding study methodology, patient demographics, and attitudes regarding xenotransplantation were extracted using Microsoft Excel. Risk of bias assessments were performed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programmed and National Institute of Health study quality assessment tools. RESULTS Of 1992 studies identified, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies were conducted across eight countries, four in the United States, for a total of 3114 patients on the kidney waitlist or with a kidney transplant. All patients were over 17 years old and 58% were male. Acceptance of a xenotransplant was assessed using surveys in 12 studies. Sixty-three percent (n = 1354) of kidney patients reported that they would accept a xenotransplant with function comparable to that of an allotransplant. Acceptance of xenografts with inferior function to allografts (15%) or as bridge organs (35%) to allotransplantation was lower. Specific concerns expressed by patients included graft function, infection, social stigma, and animal rights. Subgroup analyses showed higher acceptance in already transplanted compared to waitlist patients and white compared to Black Americans. CONCLUSION An understanding of patient attitudes and reservations is key to the successful execution of the first xenotransplantation clinical trials. This study compiles important factors to consider, such as patient concerns, attitudes regarding practical clinical scenarios for the use of xenotransplantation, and the impact of demographic factors on acceptance of this emerging technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel DeLaura
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Imran J Anwar
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joseph Ladowski
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Sarah Cantrell
- Duke University Medical Center Library & Archives, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Scott Sanoff
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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28
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Morenz A, Perkins J, Dick A, Young B, Ng YH. Reexamining the Impact of Insurance Type on Kidney Transplant Waitlist Status and Posttransplantation Outcomes in the United States After Implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1442. [PMID: 36743233 PMCID: PMC9891441 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Insurance type, a marker of socioeconomic status, has been associated with poor access to kidney transplant (KT) and worse KT outcomes before the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the revised Kidney Allocation System (KAS). In this study, we assessed if insurance type remained a risk marker for worse waitlist and transplant outcomes after ACA and KAS. Methods Using Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data, we assessed insurance type of waitlisted candidates pre- (2008-2014) versus post- (2014-2021) KAS/ACA using chi-square tests. Next, we performed a competing risk analysis to study the effect of private versus public (Medicare, Medicaid, or government-sponsored) insurance on waitlist outcomes and a Cox survival analysis to study posttransplant outcomes while controlling for candidate, and recipient and donor variables, respectively. Results The proportion of overall KT candidates insured by Medicaid increased from pre-KAS/ACA to post-KAS/ACA (from 12 667 [7.3%] to 21 768 [8.8%], P < 0.0001). However, KT candidates with public insurance were more likely to have died or become too sick for KT (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] = 1.33, confidence interval [CI], 1.30-1.36) or to receive a deceased donor KT (SHR = 1.57, CI, 1.54-1.60) but less likely to receive a living donor KT (SHR = 0.87, CI, 0.85-0.89). Post-KT, KT recipients with public insurance had greater risk of mortality (relative risks = 1.22, CI, 1.15-1.31) and allograft failure (relative risks = 1.10, CI, 1.03-1.29). Conclusions Although the implementation of ACA marginally increased the proportion of waitlisted candidates with Medicaid, publicly insured KT candidates remained at greater risk of being removed from the waitlist, had lower probability of living donor kidney transplantation, and had greater probability of dying post-KT and allograft failure. Concerted efforts to address factors contributing to these inequities in future studies are needed, with the goal of achieving equity in KT for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Morenz
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - James Perkins
- Clinical and Bio-Analytics Transplant Laboratory (CBATL), Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - André Dick
- Clinical and Bio-Analytics Transplant Laboratory (CBATL), Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Bessie Young
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Yue-Harn Ng
- Clinical and Bio-Analytics Transplant Laboratory (CBATL), Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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29
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Loor JM, Judd NS, Rice CM, Perea DD, Croswell E, Singh PP, Unruh M, Zhu Y, Sehgal AR, Goff SL, Bryce CL, Myaskovsky L. Protocol for the AKT-MP trial: Access to Kidney Transplantation in Minority Populations. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 30:101015. [PMID: 36246997 PMCID: PMC9562954 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.101015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Kidney transplant (KT) is the optimal treatment for kidney failure (KF), and although completion of KT evaluation is an essential step in gaining access to transplantation, the process is lengthy, time consuming, and burdensome. Furthermore, despite similar referral rates to non-Hispanic Whites, both Hispanic/Latinos and American Indians are less likely to be wait-listed or to undergo KT. Methods The Access to Kidney Transplantation in Minority Populations (AKT-MP) Trial compares two patient-centered methods to facilitate KT evaluation: kidney transplant fast track (KTFT), a streamlined KT evaluation process; and peer navigators (PN), a peer-assisted evaluation program that incorporates motivational interviewing. This pragmatic randomized trial will use a comparative effectiveness approach to assess whether KTFT or PN can help patients overcome barriers to transplant listing. We will randomly assign patients to the two conditions. We will track participants' medical records and conduct surveys prior to their initial evaluation clinic visit and again after they complete or discontinue evaluation. Conclusion Our aims are to (1) compare KTFT and PN to assess improvements in kidney transplant (KT) related outcomes and cost effectiveness; (2) examine how each approach effects changes in cultural/contextual factors, KT concerns, KT knowledge, and KT ambivalence; and (3) develop a framework for widespread implementation of either approach. The results of this trial will provide key information for facilitating the evaluation process, improving patient care, and decreasing disparities in KT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M. Loor
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, United States
| | - Nila S. Judd
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, United States
| | - Claudia M. Rice
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, United States
| | - Diana D. Perea
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, United States
| | - Emilee Croswell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Pooja P. Singh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Mark Unruh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Yiliang Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Ashwini R. Sehgal
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, United States
| | - Sarah L. Goff
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, United States
| | - Cindy L. Bryce
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, United States
| | - Larissa Myaskovsky
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, United States
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30
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Johnson WR, Rega SA, Feurer ID, Karp SJ. Associations between social determinants of health and abdominal solid organ transplant wait-lists in the United States. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14784. [PMID: 35894259 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14784] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Societal factors that influence wait-listing for transplantation are complex and poorly understood. Social determinants of health (SDOH) affect rates of and outcomes after transplantation. METHODS This cross-sectional study investigated the impact of SDOH on additions to state-level, 2017-2018 kidney and liver wait-lists. Principal components analysis, starting with 127 variables among 3142 counties, was used to derive novel, comprehensive state-level composites, designated (1) health/economics and (2) community capital/urbanicity. Stepwise multivariate linear regression with backwards elimination (n = 51; 50 states and DC) tested the effects of these composites, Medicaid expansion, and center density on adult disease burden-adjusted wait-list additions. RESULTS SDOH related to increased community capital/urbanicity were independently associated with wait-listing (starting models: B = .40, P = .010 Kidney; B = .36, P = .038 Liver) (final models: B = .31, P = .027 Kidney, B = .34, P = .015 Liver). In contrast and surprisingly, no other covariates were associated with wait-listing (P ≥ .122). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that deficits in community resources are important contributors to disparities in wait-list access. Our composite SDOH metrics may help identify at-risk communities, which can be the focus of local and national policy initiatives to improve access to organ transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wali R Johnson
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Scott A Rega
- Vanderbilt Transplant Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Irene D Feurer
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Vanderbilt Transplant Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Seth J Karp
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Vanderbilt Transplant Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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31
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Swift SL, Leyva Y, Wang S, Chang CCH, Dew MA, Shapiro R, Unruh M, Kendall K, Croswell E, Peipert JD, Myaskovsky L. Are cultural or psychosocial factors associated with patient-reported outcomes at the conclusion of kidney transplant evaluation? Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14796. [PMID: 35988025 PMCID: PMC9772103 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14796] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kidney transplant evaluation (KTE) is a period marked by many stressors for patients, which may lead to poorer patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Research on the association of cultural and psychosocial factors with PROs during KTE is lacking, even though cultural and psychosocial variables may mitigate the relationship between acceptance status and PROs. METHODS Using a prospective cohort study of 955 adults referred for KTE, we examined whether cultural factors and psychosocial characteristics, assessed at the initiation of KTE, are associated with PROs at KTE completion, controlling for demographics and medical factors. Also, we analyzed whether these factors moderate the relationship between transplant acceptance status and PROs. RESULTS In multivariable regression models, a stronger sense of mastery was associated with higher physical and mental QOL. A stronger sense of self-esteem was associated with higher kidney-specific QOL. Depression was associated with a lower mental QOL, but only in those who were accepted for transplant. Having low levels of external locus of control was associated with better mental QOL in those who were not accepted for transplant. Higher anxiety was associated with poorer kidney-specific QOL among those who were not accepted for KT, but trust in physician was only associated with greater satisfaction in transplant clinic service for those who were accepted for KT. CONCLUSIONS Targeting interventions to increase patient mastery and external locus of control, and reduce depression and anxiety in patients undergoing kidney transplant evaluation may be useful approaches to improve their experience during this stressful period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L. Swift
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
- SS now at New Mexico Department of Health, Epidemiology
| | - Yuri Leyva
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida
| | - Chung-Chou H. Chang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine
| | - Mary Amanda Dew
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine
| | - Ron Shapiro
- Mount Sinai Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine
| | - Mark Unruh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine
| | | | - Emilee Croswell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine
| | - John Devin Peipert
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
- Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaboration (NUTORC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
| | - Larissa Myaskovsky
- Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, School of Medicine
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32
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Patzer RE, Adler JT, Harding JL, Huml A, Kim I, Ladin K, Martins PN, Mohan S, Ross-Driscoll K, Pastan SO. A Population Health Approach to Transplant Access: Challenging the Status Quo. Am J Kidney Dis 2022; 80:406-415. [PMID: 35227824 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2022.01.422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Transplant referral and evaluation are critical steps to waitlisting yet remain an elusive part of the transplant process. Despite calls for more data collection on pre-waitlisting steps, there are currently no national surveillance data to aid in understanding the causes and potential solutions for the extreme variation in access to transplantation. As population health scientists, epidemiologists, clinicians, and ethicists we submit that the transplant community has an obligation to better understand disparities in transplant access as a first necessary step to effectively mitigating these inequities. Our position is grounded in a population health approach, consistent with several new overarching national policy and quality initiatives. The purpose of this Perspective is to (1) provide an overview of how a population health approach should inform current multisystem policies impacting kidney transplantation and demonstrate how these efforts could be enhanced with national data collection on pre-waitlisting steps; (2) demonstrate the feasibility and concrete next steps for pre-waitlisting data collection; and (3) identify potential opportunities to use these data to implement effective population-level interventions, policies, and quality measures to improve equity in access to kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Patzer
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Joel T Adler
- Department of Surgery, Division of Organ Transplantation, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts; Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jessica L Harding
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anne Huml
- Case Center for Reducing Health Disparities, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Irene Kim
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Keren Ladin
- Departments of Occupational Therapy and Community Health, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts; Research on Ethics, Aging, and Community Health (REACH Lab), Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Paulo N Martins
- Department of Surgery, Division of Organ Transplantation, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Sumit Mohan
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Katie Ross-Driscoll
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Stephen O Pastan
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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33
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Schappe T, Peskoe S, Bhavsar N, Boulware LE, Pendergast J, McElroy LM. Geospatial Analysis of Organ Transplant Referral Regions. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2231863. [PMID: 36107423 PMCID: PMC9478781 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.31863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE System and center-level interventions to improve health equity in organ transplantation benefit from robust characterization of the referral population served by each transplant center. Transplant referral regions (TRRs) define geographic catchment areas for transplant centers in the US, but accurately characterizing the demographics of populations within TRRs using US Census data poses a challenge. OBJECTIVE To compare 2 methods of linking US Census data with TRRs-a geospatial intersection method and a zip code cross-reference method. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study compared spatial congruence of spatial intersection and zip code cross-reference methods of characterizing TRRs at the census block level. Data included adults aged 18 years and older on the waiting list for kidney transplant from 2008 through 2018. EXPOSURES End-stage kidney disease. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Multiple assignments, where a census tract or block group crossed the boundary between 2 hospital referral regions and was assigned to multiple different TRRs; misassigned area, the portion of census tracts or block groups assigned to a TRR using either method but fall outside of the TRR boundary. RESULTS In total, 102 TRRs were defined for 238 transplant centers. The zip code cross-reference method resulted in 4627 multiple-assigned census block groups (representing 18% of US land area assigned to TRRs), while the spatial intersection method eliminated this problem. Furthermore, the spatial method resulted in a mean and median reduction in misassigned area of 65% and 83% across all TRRs, respectively, compared with the zip code cross-reference method. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, characterizing populations within TRRs with census block groups provided high spatial resolution, complete coverage of the country, and balanced population counts. A spatial intersection approach avoided errors due to duplicative and incorrect assignments, and allowed more detailed and accurate characterization of the sociodemographics of populations within TRRs; this approach can enrich transplant center knowledge of local referral populations, assist researchers in understanding how social determinants of health may factor into access to transplant, and inform interventions to improve heath equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Schappe
- Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Sarah Peskoe
- Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nrupen Bhavsar
- Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | - Lisa M McElroy
- Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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34
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Shrestha P, Van Pilsum Rasmussen SE, King EA, Gordon EJ, Faden RR, Segev DL, Humbyrd CJ, McAdams-DeMarco M. Defining the ethical considerations surrounding kidney transplantation for frail and cognitively impaired patients: a Delphi study of geriatric transplant experts. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:566. [PMID: 35804289 PMCID: PMC9264705 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03209-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Among adult kidney transplant (KT) candidates, 21% are frail and 55% have cognitive impairment, increasing the risk of pre- and post-KT mortality. Centers often assess frailty status and cognitive function during transplant evaluation to help identify appropriate candidate. Yet, there are no ethical guidelines regarding the use of frailty and cognitive function during this evaluation. We seek to develop a clinical consensus on balancing utility and justice in access to KT for frail and cognitively impaired patients. Methods Twenty-seven experts caring for ESRD patients completed a two-round Delphi panel designed to facilitate consensus (> 80% agreement). Results Experts believed that denying patients transplantation based solely on expected patient survival was inequitable to frail or cognitively impaired candidates; 100% agreed that frailty and cognitive impairment are important factors to consider during KT evaluation. There was consensus that health related quality of life and social support are important to consider before waitlisting frail or cognitively impaired patients. Experts identified important factors to consider before waitlisting frail (likely to benefit from KT, frailty reversibility, age, and medical contraindications) and cognitively impaired (degree of impairment and medication adherence) patients. Conclusions Clinical experts believed it was ethically unacceptable to allocate organs solely based on patients’ expected survival; frailty and cognitive impairment should be measured at evaluation when weighed against other clinical factors. Ethical guidelines regarding the use of frailty and cognitive function during KT evaluation ought to be developed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03209-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakriti Shrestha
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A King
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elisa J Gordon
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ruth R Faden
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dorry L Segev
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Casey Jo Humbyrd
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mara McAdams-DeMarco
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Surgery, New York University, New York, USA.
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35
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Understanding Structural Racism as a Barrier to Living Donor Kidney Transplantation and Transplant Care. CURRENT TRANSPLANTATION REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40472-021-00338-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Recent Findings
Black and Hispanic patients carry higher burden of kidney disease, yet have lower access to LDKT. Until recently, these differences were thought to be due to medical co-morbidities and variation in transplant center practices. However, recent studies have shown that systemic and structural inequities related to race may be one of the major drivers.
Purpose of Review
In this paper, we examine the definition of race and systemic racism, then describe patient-, transplant center–, and society-level barriers to LDKT. We identify how social determinants, cultural biases and mistrust in medical system, influence behaviors, and provider racial profiling affects all phases of transplant evaluation. Finally, we discuss initiatives to overcome some of these barriers, starting from federal government, national organizations, transplant centers, and community partners.
Summary
Examining structural biases in transplant practices is an important step to developing solutions to address disparities in health care access and outcomes for patients who need and receive transplants.
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36
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Shaw BI, Samoylova ML, Barbas AS, Cheng XS, Lu Y, McElroy LM, Sanoff S. Center variations in patient selection for simultaneous heart-kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14619. [PMID: 35175664 PMCID: PMC10067274 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14619] [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: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There are no established regulations governing patient selection for simultaneous heart-kidney (SHK) transplantation, creating the potential for significant center-level variations in clinical practice. METHODS Using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) Standard Transplant Analysis and Research (STAR) file, we examined practice trends and variations in patient selection for SHK at the center level between January 1, 2004 and March 31, 2019. RESULTS Overall, SHK is becoming more common with most centers performing heart transplants also performing SHK. Among patients who underwent heart transplant who were receiving dialysis, the rate of SHK varied from 22% to 86% at the center level. Among patients not on dialysis, the median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of patients receiving SHK varied between 19 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 . When adjusting for other factors, the odds of SHK varied 57-fold between the highest and lowest SHK performing centers. CONCLUSION Variation in SHK at the center level suggests the need for national guidelines around the selection of patients for SHK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian I Shaw
- Department of Surgery, Duke, University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marya L Samoylova
- Department of Surgery, Duke, University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew S Barbas
- Department of Surgery, Duke, University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xingxing S Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Yee Lu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lisa M McElroy
- Department of Surgery, Duke, University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Scott Sanoff
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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38
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DeBlasio RN, Myaskovsky L, DiMartini AF, Croswell E, Posluszny DM, Puttarajappa C, Switzer GE, Shapiro R, DeVito Dabbs AJ, Tevar AD, Hariharan S, Dew MA. The Combined Roles of Race/Ethnicity and Substance Use in Predicting Likelihood of Kidney Transplantation. Transplantation 2022; 106:e219-e233. [PMID: 35135973 PMCID: PMC9169160 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial/ethnic minorities face known disparities in likelihood of kidney transplantation. These disparities may be exacerbated when coupled with ongoing substance use, a factor also reducing likelihood of transplantation. We examined whether race/ethnicity in combination with ongoing substance use predicted incidence of transplantation. METHODS Patients were enrolled between March 2010 and October 2012 at the time of transplant evaluation. Substance use data were retrieved from transplant evaluations. Following descriptive analyses, the primary multivariable analyses evaluated whether, relative to the referent group (White patients with no substance use), racial/ethnic minority patients using any substances at the time of evaluation were less likely to receive transplants by the end of study follow-up (August 2020). RESULTS Among 1152 patients, 69% were non-Hispanic White, 23% non-Hispanic Black, and 8% Other racial/ethnic minorities. White, Black, and Other patients differed in percentages of current tobacco smoking (15%, 26%, and 18%, respectively; P = 0.002) and illicit substance use (3%, 8%, and 9%; P < 0.001) but not heavy alcohol consumption (2%, 4%, and 1%; P = 0.346). Black and Other minority patients using substances were each less likely to receive transplants than the referent group (hazard ratios ≤0.45, P ≤ 0.021). Neither White patients using substances nor racial/ethnic minority nonusers differed from the referent group in transplant rates. Additional analyses indicated that these effects reflected differences in waitlisting rates; once waitlisted, study groups did not differ in transplant rates. CONCLUSIONS The combination of minority race/ethnicity and substance use may lead to unique disparities in likelihood of transplantation. To facilitate equity, strategies should be considered to remove any barriers to referral for and receipt of substance use care in racial/ethnic minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richelle N DeBlasio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Larissa Myaskovsky
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Andrea F DiMartini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Emilee Croswell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Donna M Posluszny
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - Galen E Switzer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ron Shapiro
- Mount Sinai Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | - Amit D Tevar
- Department of Surgery and Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Sundaram Hariharan
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Surgery and Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Mary Amanda Dew
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Acute and Tertiary Care, School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Departments of Psychology, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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39
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A scoping review of inequities in access to organ transplant in the United States. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:22. [PMID: 35151327 PMCID: PMC8841123 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-021-01616-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Organ transplant is the preferred treatment for end-stage organ disease, yet the majority of patients with end-stage organ disease are never placed on the transplant waiting list. Limited access to the transplant waiting list combined with the scarcity of the organ pool result in over 100,000 deaths annually in the United States. Patients face unique barriers to referral and acceptance for organ transplant based on social determinants of health, and patients from disenfranchised groups suffer from disproportionately lower rates of transplantation. Our objective was to review the literature describing disparities in access to organ transplantation based on social determinants of health to integrate the existing knowledge and guide future research. Methods We conducted a scoping review of the literature reporting disparities in access to heart, lung, liver, pancreas and kidney transplantation based on social determinants of health (race, income, education, geography, insurance status, health literacy and engagement). Included studies were categorized based on steps along the transplant care continuum: referral for transplant, transplant evaluation and selection, living donor identification/evaluation, and waitlist outcomes. Results Our search generated 16,643 studies, of which 227 were included in our final review. Of these, 34 focused on disparities in referral for transplantation among patients with chronic organ disease, 82 on transplant selection processes, 50 on living donors, and 61 on waitlist management. In total, 15 studies involved the thoracic organs (heart, lung), 209 involved the abdominal organs (kidney, liver, pancreas), and three involved multiple organs. Racial and ethnic minorities, women, and patients in lower socioeconomic status groups were less likely to be referred, evaluated, and added to the waiting list for organ transplant. The quality of the data describing these disparities across the transplant literature was variable and overwhelmingly focused on kidney transplant. Conclusions This review contextualizes the quality of the data, identifies seminal work by organ, and reports gaps in the literature where future research on disparities in organ transplantation should focus. Future work should investigate the association of social determinants of health with access to the organ transplant waiting list, with a focus on prospective analyses that assess interventions to improve health equity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12939-021-01616-x.
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Abstract
Kidney transplant policy has not historically been considered a domain of nephrology policy; despite that, the US transplant system is marked by missed opportunities that prevent patients from accessing a kidney transplant. Policymakers in the federal government are focused on growing the inadequate supply of kidneys, especially on increasing procurement of deceased donor organs, and reducing kidney discards. There are many more challenges in transplantation that require the attention of experts in nephrology policy, whether in the Administration, Congress, advocacy organizations, or clinical practice. Thoughtful policy solutions are needed to improve transplant equity, balance competing patient desires, increase living donation, develop and implement measures of transplant center performance, and create an infrastructure for the long-term management of transplant recipients.
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Ng YH, Litvinovich I, Leyva Y, Ford CG, Zhu Y, Kendall K, Croswell E, Puttarajappa CM, Dew MA, Shapiro R, Unruh ML, Myaskovsky L. Medication, Healthcare Follow-up, and Lifestyle Nonadherence: Do They Share the Same Risk Factors? Transplant Direct 2022; 8:e1256. [PMID: 34912945 PMCID: PMC8670587 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Barriers to medication adherence may differ from barriers in other domains of adherence. In this study, we assessed the association between pre-kidney transplantation (KT) factors with nonadherent behaviors in 3 different domains post-KT. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study with patient interviews at initial KT evaluation (baseline-nonadherence predictors in sociodemographic, condition-related, health system, and patient-related psychosocial factors) and at ≈6 mo post-KT (adherence outcomes: medications, healthcare follow-up, and lifestyle behavior). All patients who underwent KT at our institution and had ≈6-mo follow-up interview were included in the study. We assessed nonadherence in 3 different domains using continuous composite measures derived from the Health Habit Survey. We built multiple linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for baseline characteristics, to predict adherence outcomes. RESULTS We included 173 participants. Black race (mean difference in adherence score: -0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.12 to -0.32) and higher income (mean difference: -0.34; 95% CI, -0.67 to -0.02) predicted lower medication adherence. Experience of racial discrimination predicted lower adherence (odds ratio, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.12-0.76) and having internal locus of control predicted better adherence (odds ratio, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.06-2.03) to healthcare follow-up. In the lifestyle domain, higher education (mean difference: 0.75; 95% CI, 0.21-1.29) and lower body mass index (mean difference: -0.08; 95% CI, -0.13 to -0.03) predicted better adherence to dietary recommendations, but no risk factors predicted exercise adherence. CONCLUSIONS Different nonadherence behaviors may stem from different motivation and risk factors (eg, clinic nonattendance due to experiencing racial discrimination). Thus adherence intervention should be individualized to target at-risk population (eg, bias reduction training for medical staff to improve patient adherence to clinic visit).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Harn Ng
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Igor Litvinovich
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Yuridia Leyva
- Center for the Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
| | - C. Graham Ford
- Center for the Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Yiliang Zhu
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | | | - Emilee Croswell
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - Mary Amanda Dew
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ron Shapiro
- Mount Sinai Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine
| | - Mark L. Unruh
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Larissa Myaskovsky
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
- Center for the Healthcare Equity in Kidney Disease (CHEK-D), University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM
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Killian AC, Shelton B, MacLennan P, McLeod MC, Carter A, Reed R, Qu H, Orandi B, Kumar V, Sawinski D, Locke JE. Evaluation of Community-Level Vulnerability and Racial Disparities in Living Donor Kidney Transplant. JAMA Surg 2021; 156:1120-1129. [PMID: 34524392 PMCID: PMC8444059 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2021.4410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Living donor kidney transplant (LDKT) is the ideal treatment for end-stage kidney disease, but racial disparities in LDKT have increased over the last 2 decades. Recipient clinical and social factors do not account for LDKT racial inequities, although comprehensive measures of community-level vulnerability have not been assessed. Objective To determine if racial disparities persist in LDKT independent of community-level vulnerability. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study included data from 19 287 adult kidney-only transplant recipients in the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients. The study included individuals who underwent transplant between January 1 and December 31, 2018. Exposures Recipient race and the 2018 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). Census tract-level SVI data were linked to census tracts within each recipient zip code. The median SVI measure among the census tracts within a zip code was used to describe community-level vulnerability. Main Outcomes and Measures Kidney transplant donor type (deceased vs living). Modified Poisson regression was used to evaluate the association between SVI and LDKT, and to estimate LDKT likelihood among races, independent of community-level vulnerability and recipient-level characteristics. Results Among 19 287 kidney transplant recipients, 6080 (32%) received LDKT. A total of 11 582 (60%) were male, and the median (interquartile range) age was 54 (43-63) years. There were 760 Black LDKT recipients (13%), 4865 White LDKT recipients (80%), and 455 LDKT recipients of other races (7%; American Indian, Asian, multiracial, and Pacific Islander). Recipients who lived in communities with higher SVI (ie, more vulnerable) had lower likelihood of LDKT compared with recipients who lived in communities with lower SVI (ie, less vulnerable) (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 0.97; 95% CI, 0.96-0.98; P < .001). Independent of community-level vulnerability, compared with White recipients, Black recipients had 37% lower likelihood (aRR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.59-0.67; P < .001) and recipients of other races had 24% lower likelihood (aRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.70-0.82; P < .001) of LDKT. The interaction between SVI and race was significant among Black recipients, such that the disparity in LDKT between Black and White recipients increased with greater community-level vulnerability (ratio of aRRs, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.87; P = .003). Conclusions and Relevance Community-level vulnerability is associated with access to LDKT but only partially explains LDKT racial disparities. The adverse effects of living in more vulnerable communities were worse for Black recipients. The interaction of these constructs is worrisome and suggests evaluation of other health system factors that may contribute to LDKT racial disparities is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brittany Shelton
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Paul MacLennan
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | - Alexis Carter
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Rhiannon Reed
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Haiyan Qu
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Babak Orandi
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Vineeta Kumar
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Deirdre Sawinski
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Jayme E. Locke
- Comprehensive Transplant Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham
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Mohottige D, McElroy LM, Boulware LE. A Cascade of Structural Barriers Contributing to Racial Kidney Transplant Inequities. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2021; 28:517-527. [PMID: 35367020 PMCID: PMC11200179 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Stark racial disparities in access to and receipt of kidney transplantation, especially living donor and pre-emptive transplantation, have persisted despite decades of investigation and intervention. The causes of these disparities are complex, are inter-related, and result from a cascade of structural barriers to transplantation which disproportionately impact minoritized individuals and communities. Structural barriers contributing to racial transplant inequities have been acknowledged but are often not fully explored with regard to transplant equity. We describe longstanding racial disparities in transplantation, and we discuss contributing structural barriers which occur along the transplant pathway including pretransplant health care, evaluation, referral processes, and the evaluation of transplant candidates. We also consider the role of multilevel socio-contextual influences on these processes. We believe focused efforts which apply an equity lens to key transplant processes and systems are required to achieve greater structural competency and, ultimately, racial transplant equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinushika Mohottige
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Center for Community and Population Health Improvement, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC.
| | - Lisa M McElroy
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Center for Community and Population Health Improvement, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
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Greenberg R, Goldberg A, Anthony S, Buchman DZ, Delaney S, Gruben V, Holdsworth S, Le Foll B, Leung M, Lien D, Lynch MJ, Selzner N, Chandler JA, Fortin MC. Canadian Society of Transplantation White Paper: Ethical and Legal Considerations for Alcohol and Cannabis Use in Solid Organ Listing and Allocation. Transplantation 2021; 105:1957-1964. [PMID: 33587429 PMCID: PMC8376271 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol and cannabis use as a contraindication to organ transplantation is a controversial issue. Until recently, patients in Canada with alcohol-associated liver disease were required to demonstrate abstinence for 6 mo to receive a liver transplant. There is no equivalent rule that is applied consistently for cannabis use. There is some evidence that alcohol and cannabis use disorder pretransplant could be associated with worse outcomes posttransplantation. However, early liver transplantation for patients with alcohol-associated liver disease in France and in the United States has led to challenges of the 6-mo abstinence rule in Canada in the media. It has also resulted in several legal challenges arguing that the rule violates human rights laws regarding discrimination in the provision of medical services and that the rule is also unconstitutional (this challenge is still before the court). Recent legalization of cannabis use for adults in Canada has led to questions about the appropriateness of limiting transplant access based on cannabis use. The ethics committee of the Canadian Society of Transplantation was asked to provide an ethical analysis of cannabis and alcohol abstinence policies. Our conclusions were as follows: neither cannabis use nor the 6-mo abstinence rule for alcohol use should be an absolute contraindication to transplantation, and transplant could be offered to selected patients, further research should be conducted to ensure evidence-based policies; and the transplant community has a duty not to perpetuate stigma associated with alcohol and cannabis use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Greenberg
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aviva Goldberg
- Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Samantha Anthony
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Z. Buchman
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Vanessa Gruben
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sandra Holdsworth
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Dale Lien
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marie-Josee Lynch
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nazia Selzner
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer A. Chandler
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Marie-Chantal Fortin
- Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Centre de recherche du CHUM, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, QC, Canada
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Dorante MI, Kollar B, Bittner M, Wang A, Diehm Y, Foroutanjazi S, Parikh N, Haug V, den Uyl TM, Pomahac B. Software-based Detection of Acute Rejection Changes in Face Transplant. J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 38:420-428. [PMID: 34470059 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1733995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An objective, non-invasive method for redness detection during acute allograft rejection in face transplantation (FT) is lacking. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed with 688 images of 7 patients with face transplant (range, 1 to 108 months post-transplant). Healthy controls were matched to donor age, sex, and had no prior facial procedures. Rejection state was confirmed via tissue biopsy. An image-analysis software developed alongside VicarVision (Amsterdam, Netherlands) was used to produce R, a measure of differences between detectable color and absolute red. R is inversely proportional to redness, where lower R values correspond to increased redness. Linear mixed models were used to study fixed effect of rejection state on R values. Estimated marginal means of fitted models were calculated for pairwise comparisons. RESULTS Of 688 images, 175, 170, 202, and 141 images were attributable to Banff Grade 0,1,2, and 3, respectively. Estimated change in R value of facial allografts decreased with increasing Banff Grade (p = 0.0001). The mean R value of clinical rejection (Banff Grade ⅔) (16.67, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 14.79-18.58) was lower (p = 0.005) than non-rejection (Banff Grade 0/1) (19.38, 95%CI 17.43-21.33). Both clinical and non-rejection mean R values were lower (p = 0.0001) than healthy controls (24.12, 95%CI 20.96-27.28). CONCLUSION This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that software-based analysis can detect and monitor acute rejection changes in FT. Future studies should expand on this tool's potential application in telehealth and as a screening tool for allograft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel I Dorante
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center; Burlington, Massachusetts
| | - Branislav Kollar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Freiburg Medical Center, Medical Faculty of the University of Freiburg; Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Alice Wang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yannick Diehm
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Trauma Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg; Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Sina Foroutanjazi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Neil Parikh
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Valentin Haug
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Trauma Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg; Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | | | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Ethics of Organ Transplantation in Persons with Intellectual Disability. J Pediatr 2021; 235:6-9. [PMID: 34029600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Historically, individuals with intellectual disability and end-stage organ disease were discriminated against by transplant professionals and often excluded from transplantation waitlists. Despite antidiscrimination legislation, some transplant programs continue to include intellectual disability as a relative, if not an absolute, contraindication to listing for an organ; this is true for both pediatric and adult individuals in end-stage organ disease. This commentary opposes the absolute exclusion of patients with intellectual disability and end-stage organ disease from transplantation waitlists provided that the candidates are expected to gain a predefined minimum benefit threshold of life-years and quality-adjusted-life years. Intellectual disability is one of many factors that should be considered in determining transplant eligibility and each candidate should have an individualized interdisciplinary assessment.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Renal transplantation offers the chance for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to have a significantly longer, healthier and better quality life compared with remaining on dialysis. Inequities have been demonstrated at multiple points in the transplantation pathway. In this review, the factors contributing to inequity in access to renal transplantation will be explored from a European perspective. RECENT FINDINGS Despite improvements in patient assessment and revision of organ-offering schemes, there remain persistent inequities in access to the waiting list, allocation of a deceased donor transplant, receiving a living donor transplant and achieving preemptive transplantation. Older age, lower socioeconomic status and health literacy are key factors that continue to impact equity of access to transplantation. SUMMARY A number of modifiable factors have been identified affecting access to transplantation, Increased patient education together with a better access to and promotion of living donation may help address some of these inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana A Wu
- Edinburgh Transplant Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
| | - Gabriel C Oniscu
- Edinburgh Transplant Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
- Department of Clinical Surgery, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Lentine KL, Pastan S, Mohan S, Reese PP, Leichtman A, Delmonico FL, Danovitch GM, Larsen CP, Harshman L, Wiseman A, Kramer HJ, Vassalotti J, Joseph J, Longino K, Cooper M, Axelrod DA. A Roadmap for Innovation to Advance Transplant Access and Outcomes: A Position Statement From the National Kidney Foundation. Am J Kidney Dis 2021; 78:319-332. [PMID: 34330526 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 65 years, kidney transplantation has evolved into the optimal treatment for patients with kidney failure, dramatically reducing suffering through improved survival and quality of life. However, access to transplant is still limited by organ supply, opportunities for transplant are inequitably distributed, and lifelong transplant survival remains elusive. To address these persistent needs, the National Kidney Foundation convened an expert panel to define an agenda for future research. The key priorities identified by the panel center on the needs to develop and evaluate strategies to expand living donation, improve waitlist management and transplant readiness, maximize use of available deceased donor organs, and extend allograft longevity. Strategies targeting the critical goal of decreasing organ discard that warrant research investment include educating patients and clinicians about potential benefits of accepting nonstandard organs, use of novel organ assessment technologies and real-time decision support, and approaches to preserve and resuscitate allografts before implantation. The development of personalized strategies to reduce the burden of lifelong immunosuppression and support "one transplant for life" was also identified as a vital priority. The panel noted the specific goal of improving transplant access and graft survival for children with kidney failure. This ambitious agenda will focus research investment to promote greater equity and efficiency in access to transplantation, and help sustain long-term benefits of the gift of life for more patients in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista L Lentine
- Saint Louis University Center for Abdominal Transplantation, St Louis, MO.
| | - Stephen Pastan
- Department of Medicine, Emory Transplant Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - Sumit Mohan
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Peter P Reese
- Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Alan Leichtman
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | | | | | - Lyndsay Harshman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Transplant Institute, Iowa City, IA
| | - Alexander Wiseman
- Department of Medicine, Centura Health-Porter Adventist Hospital, Aurora, CO
| | | | - Joseph Vassalotti
- National Kidney Foundation, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Matthew Cooper
- Department of Surgery, Medstar Georgetown Transplant Institute, Washington, DC
| | - David A Axelrod
- Department of Surgery, University of Iowa Transplant Institute, Iowa City, IA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Living kidney donors incur donation-related expenses, but how these expenses impact postdonation mental health is unknown. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, the association between mental health and donor-incurred expenses (both out-of-pocket costs and lost wages) was examined in 821 people who donated a kidney at one of the 12 transplant centers in Canada between 2009 and 2014. Mental health was measured by the RAND Short Form-36 Health Survey along with Beck Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory. RESULTS A total of 209 donors (25%) reported expenses of >5500 Canadian dollars. Compared with donors who incurred lower expenses, those who incurred higher expenses demonstrated significantly worse mental health-related quality of life 3 months after donation, with a trend towards worse anxiety and depression, after controlling for predonation mental health-related quality of life and other risk factors for psychological distress. Between-group differences for donors with lower and higher expenses on these measures were no longer significant 12 months after donation. CONCLUSIONS Living kidney donor transplant programs should ensure that adequate psychosocial support is available to all donors who need it, based on known and unknown risk factors. Efforts to minimize donor-incurred expenses and to better support the mental well-being of donors need to continue. Further research is needed to investigate the effect of donor reimbursement programs, which mitigate donor expenses, on postdonation mental health.
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