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Farr DE, Benefield T, Lee MH, Torres E, Henderson LM. Multilevel contributors to racial and ethnic inequities in the resolution of abnormal mammography results. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:995-1009. [PMID: 38478206 PMCID: PMC11216886 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-024-01851-x] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiple ecological levels influence racial inequities in the completion of diagnostic testing after receiving abnormal mammography results (diagnostic resolution). Yet, few studies examine more than two ecological levels. We investigated the contributions of county, imaging facility, and patient characteristics on our primary and secondary outcomes, the achievement of diagnostic resolution by (1)Black women and Latinas, and (2) the entire sample. We hypothesized that women of color would be less likely to achieve resolution than their White counterparts, and this relationship would be mediated by imaging facility features and moderated by county characteristics. METHODS Records for 25,144 women with abnormal mammograms between 2011 and 2019 from the Carolina Mammography Registry were merged with publicly available county data. Diagnostic resolution was operationalized as the percentage of women achieving resolution within 60 days of receiving abnormal results and overall time to resolution and examined using mixed effects logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models, respectively. RESULTS Women of color with abnormal screening mammograms were less likely to achieve resolution within 60 days compared with White women (OR 0.83, CI 0.78-0.89; OR 0.74, CI.60-0.91, respectively) and displayed longer resolution times (HR 0.87, CI 0.84-0.91; HR 0.78, CI 0.68-0.89). Residential segregation had a moderating effect, with Black women in more segregated counties being less likely to achieve resolution by 60 days but lost statistical significance after adjustment. No mediators were discovered. CONCLUSION More work is needed to understand how imaging center and community characteristics impact racial inequities in resolution and resolution in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeonna E Farr
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, College of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, 2307 Carol G. Belk Building, Mail Stop 529, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA.
| | - Thad Benefield
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Mi Hwa Lee
- School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA
| | - Essie Torres
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-4000, USA
| | - Louise M Henderson
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
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Cho D, Gor B, Hwang H, Wang X, Hernandez M, Jones LA, Frost J, Roberson P, Pettaway CA. A Community-Based Prostate Cancer Screening and Education Program for Asian American Men in Medically Underserved Communities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:415. [PMID: 38673327 PMCID: PMC11050265 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040415] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
This study analyzed data from a community-based prostate cancer (PCa) education and screening program (Prostate Outreach Project; POP) to enhance PCa-related knowledge among medically underserved Asian American men. It also examined PCa screening history, clinical abnormalities based on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal examination (DRE) results, and follow-up and PCa diagnosis rates. Participants-521 Asian men (251 Vietnamese, 142 Chinese, and 128 South Asians)-were offered PCa screening using PSA tests and/or DRE and an educational session on PCa. Of these men, 277 completed PCa-related knowledge surveys before and after viewing an educational video. Significant between-group differences in PCa-related knowledge were found at pre-assessment (p < 0.001) but not at post-assessment (p = 0.11), at which time all groups showed improved PCa-related knowledge. Most participants (77.9%) had never received PCa screening, but Vietnamese men had the lowest previous screening rate (17.3%). Chinese men had elevated PSA values and the highest abnormal DRE rates. Of the 125 men with abnormal screening outcomes, only 15.2% had adequate follow-up. Of the 144 men diagnosed with PCa in POP, 11.1% were Asians (seven Chinese, six Vietnamese, and three South Asian). Despite the ethnic heterogeneity among Asian men, a community outreach program may successfully enhance their PCa-related knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalnim Cho
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Beverly Gor
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Hyunsoo Hwang
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mike Hernandez
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lovell A. Jones
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (D.C.); (B.G.)
| | - Jacqueline Frost
- Department of Urology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Pamela Roberson
- Department of Urology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Curtis A. Pettaway
- Department of Urology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Wilkerson AD, Gentle CK, Ortega C, Al-Hilli Z. Disparities in Breast Cancer Care-How Factors Related to Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment Drive Inequity. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:462. [PMID: 38391837 PMCID: PMC10887556 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12040462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer survival has increased significantly over the last few decades due to more effective strategies for prevention and risk modification, advancements in imaging detection, screening, and multimodal treatment algorithms. However, many have observed disparities in benefits derived from such improvements across populations and demographic groups. This review summarizes published works that contextualize modern disparities in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment and presents potential strategies for reducing disparities. We conducted searches for studies that directly investigated and/or reported disparities in breast cancer prevention, detection, or treatment. Demographic factors, social determinants of health, and inequitable healthcare delivery may impede the ability of individuals and communities to employ risk-mitigating behaviors and prevention strategies. The disparate access to quality screening and timely diagnosis experienced by various groups poses significant hurdles to optimal care and survival. Finally, barriers to access and inequitable healthcare delivery patterns reinforce inequitable application of standards of care. Cumulatively, these disparities underlie notable differences in the incidence, severity, and survival of breast cancers. Efforts toward mitigation will require collaborative approaches and partnerships between communities, governments, and healthcare organizations, which must be considered equal stakeholders in the fight for equity in breast cancer care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avia D Wilkerson
- Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Corey K Gentle
- Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Camila Ortega
- Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Zahraa Al-Hilli
- Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Breast Center, Integrated Surgical Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Lee CS, Goldman L, Grimm LJ, Liu IX, Simanowith M, Rosenberg R, Zuley M, Moy L. Screening mammographic performance by race and age in the National Mammography Database: 29,479,665 screening mammograms from 13,181,241 women. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2024; 203:599-612. [PMID: 37897646 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07124-6] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There are insufficient large-scale studies comparing the performance of screening mammography in women of different races. This study aims to compare the screening performance metrics across racial and age groups in the National Mammography Database (NMD). METHODS All screening mammograms performed between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021, in women aged 30-100 years from 746 mammography facilities in 46 U.S. states in the NMD were included. Patients were stratified by 10-year age intervals and 5 racial groups (African American, American Indian, Asian, White, unknown). Incidence of risk factors (breast density, personal history, family history of breast cancer, age), and time since prior exams were compared. Five screening mammography metrics were calculated: recall rate (RR), cancer detection rate (CDR), positive predictive values for recalls (PPV1), biopsy recommended (PPV2) and biopsy performed (PPV3). RESULTS 29,479,655 screening mammograms performed in 13,181,241 women between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021, from the NMD were analyzed. The overall mean performance metrics were RR 10.00% (95% CI 9.99-10.02), CDR 4.18/1000 (4.16-4.21), PPV1 4.18% (4.16-4.20), PPV2 25.84% (25.72-25.97), PPV3 25.78% (25.66-25.91). With advancing age, RR significantly decreases, while CDR, PPV1, PPV2, and PPV3 significantly increase. Incidence of personal/family history of breast cancer, breast density, age, prior mammogram availability, and time since prior mammogram were mostly similar across all races. Compared to White women, African American women had significantly higher RR, but lower CDR, PPV1, PPV2 and PPV3. CONCLUSIONS Benefits of screening mammography increase with age, including for women age > 70 and across all races. Screening mammography is effective; with lower RR and higher CDR, PPV2, and PPV3 with advancing age. African American women have poorer outcomes from screening mammography (higher RR and lower CDR), compared to White and all women in the NMD. Racial disparity can be partly explained by higher rate of African American women lost to follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy S Lee
- Department of Radiology, New York University Langone Health, New York, USA.
- Department of Radiology, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
| | - Lenka Goldman
- American College of Radiology, 1891 Preston Drive, Reston, VA, USA
| | - Lars J Grimm
- Department of Radiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ivy Xinyue Liu
- American College of Radiology, 1891 Preston Drive, Reston, VA, USA
| | | | | | - Margarita Zuley
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Linda Moy
- Department of Radiology, New York University Langone Health, New York, USA
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Flynn SJ, Livaudais-Toman J, Kaplan CP, Kerlikowske K, Burke NJ, Pathak S, Karliner LS. Primary Care Physicians' Perceived Barriers to Follow-Up of Abnormal Mammogram Results: Opportunities for Systems-Level Interventions. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:1786-1788. [PMID: 36451017 PMCID: PMC10212882 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07967-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Flynn
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Livaudais-Toman
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1545 Divisadero, Box 0320, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0320, USA
- Multiethnic Health Equity Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Celia P Kaplan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1545 Divisadero, Box 0320, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0320, USA
- Multiethnic Health Equity Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karla Kerlikowske
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- General Internal Medicine Section, Department of Veterans Affairs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nancy J Burke
- Department of Public Health, School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, USA
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sarita Pathak
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1545 Divisadero, Box 0320, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0320, USA
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Leah S Karliner
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1545 Divisadero, Box 0320, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0320, USA.
- Multiethnic Health Equity Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Jones T, Wisdom-Chambers K, Freeman K, Edwards K. Barriers to Mammography Screening among Black Women at a Community Health Center in South Florida, USA. MEDICAL RESEARCH ARCHIVES 2023; 11:10.18103/mra.v11i4.3814. [PMID: 37475892 PMCID: PMC10358292 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v11i4.3814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Background In the United States (US), Black/African American women suffer disproportionately from breast cancer health disparities with a 40% higher death rate compared to White women. Mammography screening is considered a critical tool in mitigating disparities, yet Black women experience barriers to screening and are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the relative frequency of mammography screening and to examine perceived and actual barriers to screening among women who receive care in our nurse-led community health center. Methods We conducted a survey examining frequency of mammography screening and beliefs about breast cancer including perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers to mammography screening, guided by the Champion Health Belief Model. Results A total of 30 Black/African American women completed the survey. The mean age of the participants was 54.3 years ± 9.17 (SD); 43.3% had a high school education or less; 50% had incomes below $60,000 per year; 26.7% were uninsured; 10% were on Medicaid; and only 50% were working full-time. We found that only half of the participants reported having annual mammograms 16 (53.3%), 1 (3.3%) every 6 months, 8 (26.6%) every 2-3 years, and 5 (16.7%) never had a mammogram in their lifetime. Frequently cited barriers included: 'getting a mammogram would be inconvenient for me'; 'getting a mammogram could cause breast cancer'; 'the treatment I would get for breast cancer would be worse than the cancer itself'; 'being treated for breast cancer would cause me a lot of problems'; 'other health problems would keep me from having a mammogram'; concern about pain with having a mammogram would keep me from having one; and not being able to afford a mammogram would keep me from having one'. Having no health insurance was also a barrier. Conclusion This study found suboptimal utilization of annual screening mammograms among low-income Black women at a community health center in Florida and women reported several barriers. Given the high mortality rate of breast cancer among Black/African American women, we have integrated a Patient Navigator in our health system to reduce barriers to breast cancer screening, follow-up care, and to facilitate timely access to treatment, thus ultimately reducing breast cancer health disparities and promoting health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarsha Jones
- Professor John F. Wymer, Jr. Endowed Distinguished Professor CEO FAU/NCHA Community Health Center. Member, National Advisory Committee, American Nurses Association/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Minority Fellowship Program, Florida Atlantic University
| | - Karen Wisdom-Chambers
- Professor John F. Wymer, Jr. Endowed Distinguished Professor CEO FAU/NCHA Community Health Center. Member, National Advisory Committee, American Nurses Association/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Minority Fellowship Program, Florida Atlantic University
| | - Katherine Freeman
- Professor John F. Wymer, Jr. Endowed Distinguished Professor CEO FAU/NCHA Community Health Center. Member, National Advisory Committee, American Nurses Association/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Minority Fellowship Program, Florida Atlantic University
| | - Karethy Edwards
- Professor John F. Wymer, Jr. Endowed Distinguished Professor CEO FAU/NCHA Community Health Center. Member, National Advisory Committee, American Nurses Association/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Minority Fellowship Program, Florida Atlantic University
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Morgan MB, Mates JL. Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Breast Imaging. JOURNAL OF BREAST IMAGING 2023; 5:195-200. [PMID: 38416925 DOI: 10.1093/jbi/wbac076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
There is great interest in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) applications for medical imaging in general and specifically in breast imaging. Because of the scale of application and the potential for harm, there has been a parallel interest in assuring that these new technologies are scrutinized and applied in ethical ways. The four principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice are widely accepted as a framework for bioethical analysis. We incorporate a fifth principle of explicability (adapted from Floridi and Cowls) because of the unique considerations of AI. We review definitions of each of these principles and provide examples of their practical application to breast imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Morgan
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Lu M, Liao X. Telehealth utilization in U.S. medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:368. [PMID: 36803677 PMCID: PMC9942377 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15263-0] [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] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has become a serious public health concern for older adults and amplified the value of deploying telehealth solutions. The purpose of this study was to investigate telehealth offered by providers among U.S. Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzed Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older using data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, Winter 2021 COVID-19 Supplement ([Formula: see text]). We identified variables that were associated with telehealth offered by primary care physicians and beneficiaries' access to the Internet through a multivariate classification analysis utilizing Random Forest machine learning techniques. FINDINGS For study participants interviewed by telephone, 81.06% of primary care providers provided telehealth services, and 84.62% of the Medicare beneficiaries had access to the Internet. The survey response rates for each outcome were 74.86% and 99.55% respectively. The two outcomes were positively correlated ([Formula: see text]). The Our machine learning model predicted the outcomes accurately utilizing 44 variables. Residing area and race/ethnicity were most informative for predicting telehealth coverage, and Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility and income were most informative for predicting Internet access. Other strong correlates included age, ability to access basic needs and certain mental and physical health conditions. Interactions were found among statuses of residing area, age, Medicare Advantage and heart conditions that intensified the disparity of outcomes. CONCLUSIONS We found that telehealth offered by providers likely increased during the COVID-19 pandemic for older beneficiaries, providing important access to care for certain subgroups. Policymakers must continue to identify effective means of delivering telehealth services, modernize the framework of regulatory, accreditation and reimbursement, and address disparities in access to telehealth with a particular focus on underserved communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.
| | - Xinyi Liao
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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Vong V, Simpson-Yap S, Phaiju S, Davenport RA, Neate SL, Pisano MI, Reece JC. The association between tobacco smoking and depression and anxiety in people with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 70:104501. [PMID: 36621161 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The link between tobacco smoking and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) onset and progression is well-established. While clinical levels of depression and anxiety are highly prevalent in people living with MS (plwMS), and both are recognized as common MS-related symptoms, the relationships between smoking behavior and depression and anxiety are unclear. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence on the relationships between current-smoking and former-smoking and depression and anxiety in plwMS. METHODS Systematic review of all studies investigating associations between tobacco smoking and depression and anxiety in plwMS was conducted. Relevant studies published before 26 April 2022 were identified by searching seven databases; MEDLINE® (Ovid and PubMed), Embase, CINAHL®, Cochrane Library and PsycInfo), and citation and reference list checking. Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists for respective study designs assessed the risk of bias. RESULTS Thirteen publications reporting on 12 studies met study inclusion criteria. Nine of 12 studies examining current-smoking and depression in plwMS identified a positive association. Four prospective studies provided evidence supporting a causal smoking-depression relationship, with 1.3-2.3-fold higher depression prevalence found in current-smokers than non-smokers. Three cross-sectional studies found no smoking-depression association. Four of five included studies found current-smoking was associated with anxiety, with three prospective studies indicating anxiety prevalence was around 20% higher in current-smokers. Former-smoking was associated with increased prevalence of depression, but not anxiety. CONCLUSION We provide strong evidence for increased depression prevalence in plwMS who are either current-smokers or former-smokers. However, only current-smoking was associated with increased prevalence of anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Vong
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Steve Simpson-Yap
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia; Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Spreeha Phaiju
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Rebekah A Davenport
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sandra L Neate
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Mia I Pisano
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jeanette C Reece
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia.
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10
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Nugroho PP, Ghozali SAS, Buchanan DD, Pisano MI, Reece JC. Risk of cancer in individuals with Lynch-like syndrome and their families: a systematic review. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:25-46. [PMID: 36251064 PMCID: PMC9889410 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04397-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lynch-like syndrome (LLS) tumors have similar clinicopathological features to Lynch syndrome (LS) tumors but have no identifiable pathogenic germline mismatch repair gene variant. However, cancer risks in LLS patients and first-degree relatives (FDRs) are not well defined. METHODS To clarify LLS-associated cancer risks, a systematic review of all studies examining all cancer risks in LLS was performed. Searching of Medline, Embase, Pubmed, Cochrane and CINAHL databases and reference/citation checking identified relevant studies published between January 1, 1980 and February 11, 2021. Joanna Briggs Institute Appraisal Tools assessed the risk of bias. RESULTS Six studies (five cohort/one cross-sectional) were eligible for study inclusion. One study found no difference in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence between LLS and LS patients or CRC risks at aged 70 years. Three studies found CRC incidence in LLS FDRs was higher than the general population but lower than LS FDRs. Two studies showed no difference in CRC diagnosis age between LLS patients and LS patients. Endometrial cancer risks in LLS patients were higher than the general population but lower than LS patients. CONCLUSION Evidence of elevated CRC risks in LLS patients and FDRs supports increased colonoscopy surveillance strategies for LLS patients and FDRs in line with current recommendations for LS. Due to heterogeneity amongst LLS populations, extended intervals between screening may be advised for low-risk families. Studies to resolve the molecular characterization and definition of LLS are needed to clarify cancer risks associated with LLS which in turn may individualize surveillance strategies for LLS patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pandu P Nugroho
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Siti Alyaa S Ghozali
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Daniel D Buchanan
- Colorectal Oncogenomics Group, Department of Clinical Pathology, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- University of Melbourne Centre for Cancer Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Genomic Medicine and Family Cancer Clinic, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Mia I Pisano
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeanette C Reece
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Level 3 207 Bouverie Street, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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11
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Makurumidze G, Lu C, Babagbemi K. Addressing Disparities in Breast Cancer Screening: A Review. APPLIED RADIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.37549/ar2849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Connie Lu
- Weill Cornell Medicine New York Presbyterian
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12
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Lu M, Liao X. Access to care through telehealth among U.S. Medicare beneficiaries in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:946944. [PMID: 36148338 PMCID: PMC9485666 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.946944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency has amplified the potential value of deploying telehealth solutions. Less is known about how trends in access to care through telehealth changed over time. Objectives To investigate trends in forgone care and telehealth coverage among Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to analyze the outcomes of 31,907 Medicare beneficiaries using data from three waves of survey data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Supplement (Summer 2020, Fall 2020, and Winter 2021). We identified informative variables through a multivariate classification analysis utilizing Random Forest machine learning techniques. Findings The rate of reported forgone medical care because of COVID-19 decreased largely (22.89-3.31%) with a small increase in telehealth coverage (56.24-61.84%) from the week of June 7, 2020, to the week of April 4 to 25, 2021. Overall, there were 21.97% of respondents did not know whether their primary care providers offered telehealth services; the rates of forgone care and telehealth coverage were 11.68 and 59.52% (11.73 and 81.18% from yes and no responses). Our machine learning model predicted the outcomes accurately utilizing 43 variables. Informative factors included Medicare beneficiaries' age, Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility, ability to access basic needs, certain mental and physical health conditions, and interview date. Conclusions This cross-sectional survey study found proliferation and utilization of telehealth services in certain subgroups during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing important access to care. There is a need to confront traditional barriers to the proliferation of telehealth. Policymakers must continue to identify effective means of maintaining continuity of care and growth of telehealth services.
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Ren W, Chen M, Qiao Y, Zhao F. Global guidelines for breast cancer screening: A systematic review. Breast 2022; 64:85-99. [PMID: 35636342 PMCID: PMC9142711 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Breast cancer screening guidelines could provide valuable tools for clinical decision making by reviewing the available evidence and providing recommendations. Little information is known about how many countries have issued breast cancer screening guidelines and the differences among existing guidelines. We systematically reviewed current guidelines and summarized corresponding recommendations, to provide references for good clinical practice in different countries. Methods Systematic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to March 27th, 2021 were conducted and supplemented by reviewing the guideline development organizations. The quality of screening guidelines was assessed from six domains of the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Ⅱ (AGREE Ⅱ) instrument by two appraisers. The basic information and recommendations of the issued guidelines were extracted and summarized. Results A total of 23 guidelines issued between 2010 and 2021 in 11 countries or regions were identified for further review. The content and quality varied across the guidelines. The average AGREE Ⅱ scores of the guidelines ranged from 33.3% to 87.5%. The highest domain score was "clarity of presentation" while the domain with the lowest score was "applicability". For average-risk women, most of the guidelines recommended mammographic screening for those aged 40–74 years, specifically, those aged 50–69 years were regarded as the optimal age group for screening. Nine of 23 guidelines recommended against an upper age limit for breast cancer screening. Mammography (MAM) was recommended as the primary screening modality for average-risk women by all included guidelines. Most guidelines suggested annual or biennial mammographic screening. Risk factors of breast cancer identified in the guidelines mainly fell within five categories which could be broadly summarized as the personal history of pre-cancerous lesions and/or breast cancer; the family history of breast cancer; the known genetic predisposition of breast cancer; the history of mantle or chest radiation therapy; and dense breasts. For women at higher risk, there was a consensus among most guidelines that annual MAM or annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be given, and the screening should begin earlier than the average-risk group. Conclusions The majority of 23 included international guidelines were issued by developed countries which contained roughly the same but not identical recommendations on breast cancer screening age, methods, and intervals. Most guidelines recommended annual or biennial mammographic screening between 40 and 74 years for average-risk populations and annual MAM or annual MRI starting from a younger age for high-risk populations. Current guidelines varied in quality and increased efforts are needed to improve the methodological quality of guidance documents. Due to lacking clinical practice guidelines tailored to different economic levels, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) should apply and implement the evidence-based guidelines with higher AGREE Ⅱ scores considering local adaption. This systematic review comprehensively maps the recommendations of the latest international breast screening guidelines, providing valuable tools for clinical decision making in different settings. Most guidelines recommend annual or biennial mammographic screening between 40 and 74 years for the average-risk populations and annual MAM or annual MRI starting from a younger age for the high-risk populations. However, there are indeed discrepancies in screening age, methods, and intervals among countries. High-quality evidence and rigorous methodology are the keys to guidance development, but current guidelines vary in methodological quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Ren
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Mingyang Chen
- Center for Global Health, School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Youlin Qiao
- Center for Global Health, School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Fanghui Zhao
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Palmer NR, Smith AN, Campbell BA, Andemeskel G, Tahir P, Felder TM, Cicerelli B. Navigation programs relevant for African American men with prostate cancer: a scoping review protocol. Syst Rev 2022; 11:122. [PMID: 35701771 PMCID: PMC9195379 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-01993-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The excess incidence and mortality due to prostate cancer that impacts African American men constitutes the largest of all cancer disparities. Patient navigation is a patient-centered healthcare system intervention to eliminate barriers to timely, high-quality care across the cancer continuum and improves health outcomes among vulnerable patients. However, little is known regarding the extent to which navigation programs include cultural humility to address prostate cancer disparities among African American men. We present a scoping review protocol of an in-depth examination of navigation programs in prostate cancer care-including navigation activities/procedures, training, and management-with a special focus on cultural context and humility for African American men to achieve health equity. METHODS We will conduct comprehensive searches of the literature in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete, using keywords and index terms (Mesh and Emtree) within the three main themes: prostate cancer, patient navigation, and African American men. We will also conduct a search of the gray literature, hand-searching, and reviewing references of included papers and conference abstracts. In a two-phase approach, two authors will independently screen titles and abstracts, and full-text based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. All study designs will be included that present detailed data about the elements of navigation programs, including intervention content, navigator training, and/or management. Data will be extracted from included studies, and review findings will be synthesized and summarized. DISCUSSION A scoping review focused on cultural humility in patient navigation within the context of eliminating disparities in PCa care among African American men does not yet exist. This review will synthesize existing evidence of patient navigation programs for African American prostate cancer patients and the inclusion of cultural humility. Results will inform the development and implementation of future programs to meet the unique needs of vulnerable prostate cancer patients in safety net settings. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021221412.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nynikka R. Palmer
- Division on General Internal Medicine at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, UCSF mailbox 1364, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Ashley Nicole Smith
- Division on General Internal Medicine at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, UCSF mailbox 1364, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Brittany A. Campbell
- University of California San Francisco, 1450 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | | | - Peggy Tahir
- UCSF Library, University of California San Francisco, 530 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Tisha M. Felder
- College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, 1601 Greene Street, Room 620, Columbia, SC 29208 USA
| | - Barbara Cicerelli
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, 995 Potrero Ave, Building 80, Room 8000N Lower Level, San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
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15
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Vang SS, Dunn A, Margolies LR, Jandorf L. Delays in Follow-up Care for Abnormal Mammograms in Mobile Mammography Versus Fixed-Clinic Patients. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:1619-1625. [PMID: 35212876 PMCID: PMC9130416 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile mammographic services (MM) have been shown to increase breast cancer screening in medically underserved women. However, little is known about MM patients' adherence to follow-up of abnormal mammograms and how this compares with patients from traditional, fixed clinics. OBJECTIVES To assess delays in follow-up of abnormal mammograms in women screened using MM versus fixed clinics. DESIGN Electronic medical record review of abnormal screening mammograms. SUBJECTS Women screened on a MM van or at a fixed clinic with an abnormal radiographic result in 2019 (N = 1,337). MAIN MEASURES Our outcome was delay in follow-up of an abnormal mammogram of 60 days or greater. Guided by Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Utilization, we assessed the following: predisposing (age, ethnicity, marital status, preferred language), enabling (insurance, provider referral, clinic site), and need (personal breast cancer history, family history of breast/ovarian cancer) factors. KEY RESULTS Only 45% of MM patients had obtained recommended follow-up within 60 days of an abnormal screening compared to 72% of fixed-site patients (p < .001). After adjusting for predisposing, enabling, and need factors, MM patients were 2.1 times more likely to experience follow-up delays than fixed-site patients (CI: 1.5-3.1; p < .001). African American (OR: 1.5; CI: 1.0-2.1; p < .05) and self-referred (OR: 1.8; CI: 1.2-2.8; p < .01) women were significantly more likely to experience delays compared to Non-Hispanic White women or women with a provider referral, respectively. Women who were married (OR: 0.63; CI: 0.5-0.9; p < .01), had breast cancer previously (OR: 0.37; CI: 0.2-0.8; p < .05), or had a family history of breast/ovarian cancer (OR: 0.76; CI: 0.6-0.9; p < .05) were less likely to experience delayed care compared to unmarried women, women with no breast cancer history, or women without a family history of breast/ovarian cancer, respectively. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of women screened using MM had follow-up delays. Women who are African American, self-referred, or unmarried are particularly at risk of experiencing delays in care for an abnormal mammogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne S Vang
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1077, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Alexandra Dunn
- MD/MPH Program, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laurie R Margolies
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and The Dubin Breast Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lina Jandorf
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1077, New York, NY, 10029, USA
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Butler EN, Umar A, Heckman-Stoddard BM, Kundrod KA, Signorello LB, Castle PE. Redefining precision cancer prevention to promote health equity. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:295-302. [PMID: 35181273 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Precision cancer prevention as it is currently envisioned is a targeted, molecular-based approach to intercept carcinogenesis before cancer develops or before it becomes untreatable. Unfortunately, due to systemic biases, current precision cancer prevention interventions might not be effective in all populations, especially in minoritized communities. In addition, not all cancer risk is attributable to genetic or even biological factors, but includes social determinants of health (SDH). Here, we propose a broader framework for precision cancer prevention, anchored in optimizing the benefits to harms for all people. We propose that precision cancer prevention considers not only what is being delivered, but also for whom, where, and how, with a goal of achieving cancer prevention health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eboneé N Butler
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA; Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Asad Umar
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Brandy M Heckman-Stoddard
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Kathryn A Kundrod
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Lisa B Signorello
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Philip E Castle
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA; Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA.
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Experiences of Women Who Refuse Recall for Further Investigation of Abnormal Screening Mammography: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031041. [PMID: 35162064 PMCID: PMC8834256 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer has the highest incidence among all cancers for women in Taiwan. The current screening policy in Taiwan provides biennial mammogram tests for all women aged 45 to 69 years. A recommendation for further investigation is sent via post to women with a BI-RADS result of 0. The proportion of women who followed-up with a recall request for further investigation after an abnormal mammogram has been below 92.5% in recent years. Therefore, we aimed to explore the experiences of these women who refused recall for further investigation despite an abnormal mammogram. Purposive sampling was conducted on 13 women who refused recall for further examination of abnormal screening mammograms. Data collection included inductive, in-depth interviews or telephone interviews. A content analysis was applied. Three themes were identified: (1) negative screening experiences, (2) struggling with ’to go or not to go’, and (3) rationalizing without a follow-up examination. The first theme included three subthemes: (1) pain of examination, (2) the inconvenience of medical treatment; waiting, and (3) dissatisfaction with having to pay for further examination. The second major theme included three subthemes: (1) perceiving one’s susceptibility to breast cancer as very low, (2) questioning the accuracy of the results, and (3) procrastinating with a “head-in-the-sand” mentality. The third major theme included two subthemes: (1) fatalism and (2) paying attention to self-cultivation. In conclusion, the findings provide important information to healthcare providers involved in case management related to the actual living experiences of women with abnormal screening mammogram results and the additional education required to raise breast cancer awareness in the general public to achieve overall caring goals.
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Park S, Stimpson JP. Trends in Self-reported Forgone Medical Care Among Medicare Beneficiaries During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA HEALTH FORUM 2021; 2:e214299. [PMID: 35977302 PMCID: PMC8796880 DOI: 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2021.4299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Question How did forgone medical care among Medicare beneficiaries change during the COVID-19 pandemic? Findings In this cross-sectional survey study of 23 058 Medicare beneficiaries using 3 waves of data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic (Summer 2020, Fall 2020, and Winter 2021), patient-reported forgone medical care decreased over time, but the largest decrease was observed in Summer 2020. Most of the forgone medical care was associated with physician-driven factors, and forgone medical care was more common among those who reported mental health problems. Meaning The study results suggest that Medicare beneficiaries experienced limited care access during the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic but have improved care access over time. Importance Evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative association with medical care access. As prior studies mainly focused on the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, less is known about how trends in forgone medical care changed over time. Objective To examine trends in and reasons for forgone medical care among Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study analyzed Medicare beneficiaries using data from 3 waves of survey data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey COVID-19 Supplement (Summer 2020, Fall 2020, and Winter 2021). Data analyses were conducted between July and August 2021. Exposures Date of interview. Main Outcomes and Measures Self-reported forgone medical care because of COVID-19. Results A total of 23 058 Medicare beneficiaries were included (13 005 women [56.4%]; 10 445 [45.3%] 75 years old and older). The survey response rates for each wave were 72.6%, 78.95, and 79.6%, respectively. The rates of reported forgone medical care because of COVID-19 decreased from the week of June 7, 2020, to the week of April 4 to 25, 2021, but the largest difference in the rates was found between June 7 and July 12, 2020 (22.4% to 15.9%). Physician-driven factors accounted for about 70% of the forgone medical care. The proportion of those who reported forgoing medical care because of physician-driven factors tended to decrease from 66.2% in the week of July 7, 2020, to 44.7% in the weeks of April 4 to 25, 2021. The likelihood of forgone medical care was 4 percentage points (95% CI, 0.03-0.05) higher among those who reported feeling more stressed or anxious than those who did not, 3 percentage points (95% CI, 0.01-0.04) higher among those who reported feeling more lonely or sad than those who did not, and 3 percentage points (95% CI, 0.01-0.04) higher among those who reported feeling less socially connected than those who did not. Conclusions and Relevance The results of this cross-sectional survey study suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate existing barriers to care and lead Medicare beneficiaries to delay needed care. Policy makers must continue to identify effective means of meeting the forgone care backlog and maintaining continuity of care, especially for those with mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungchul Park
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jim P. Stimpson
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Ojakäär T, Koychev I. Secondary Prevention of Dementia: Combining Risk Factors and Scalable Screening Technology. Front Neurol 2021; 12:772836. [PMID: 34867762 PMCID: PMC8634660 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.772836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is the most common cause of dementia. Over a third of dementia cases are estimated to be due to potentially modifiable risk factors, thus offering opportunities for both identification of those most likely to be in early disease as well as secondary prevention. Diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney failure have all been linked to increased risk for AD and dementia and through their high prevalence are particularly apt targets for initiatives to reduce burden of AD. This can take place through targeted interventions of cardiovascular risk factors (shown to improve cognitive outcomes) or novel disease modifying treatments in people with confirmed AD pathology. The success of this approach to secondary prevention depends on the availability of inexpensive and scalable methods for detecting preclinical and prodromal dementia states. Developments in blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease are rapidly becoming a viable such method for monitoring large at-risk groups. In addition, digital technologies for remote monitoring of cognitive and behavioral changes can add clinically relevant data to further improve personalisation of prevention strategies. This review sets the scene for this approach to secondary care of dementia through a review of the evidence for cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney disease) as major risk factors for AD. We then summarize the developments in blood-based and cognitive biomarkers that allow the detection of pathological states at the earliest possible stage. We propose that at-risk cohorts should be created based on the interaction between cardiovascular and constitutional risk factors. These cohorts can then be monitored effectively using a combination of blood-based biomarkers and digital technologies. We argue that this strategy allows for both risk factor reduction-based prevention programmes as well as for optimisation of any benefits offered by current and future disease modifying treatment through rapid identification of individuals most likely to benefit from them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivan Koychev
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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