1
|
Papatla K, Orfanelli T, Stoffels G, Layne T, Baldwin E, Leibold A, Blank SV, Cohen S. Mitigating disparity?: Treatment patterns, survival, and recurrence rates by race, ethnicity, and hospital site across a large urban health system. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2024; 53:101372. [PMID: 38584803 PMCID: PMC10997945 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2024.101372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective National data have shown worse endometrial cancer (EC) outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities. We aimed to analyze EC patient outcomes within a large urban academic health system, with a focus on patterns of care and recurrence rates. Methods This was a retrospective chart review of EC patients at three system hospitals from 1/1/07-12/31/17. Demographic and clinical factors, including time from EMB to surgery, rate of chemotherapy completion, persistent or recurrent disease, and palliative care referrals were extracted. Descriptive statistics and survival curves were generated. Analysis was done using SAS version 9.4. Results Black patients had lower overall survival compared to all others on univariate analysis only (p < 0.0001). Hospital site was associated with OS, with the academic anchor and satellite 1 having higher rates of all-cause mortality compared to satellite 2 (HR 4.68 academic anchor, 95 % CI 1.72-12.76, HR 5.36 satellite 1, 95 % CI 1.85-15.52). Time from EMB to surgery and rates of persistent disease following primary treatment were higher in Black patients. After adjusting for stage and grade, chemotherapy completion rate was significantly associated with race. Palliative care was utilized more for Black than White patients after adjusting for stage and grade (p = 0.005). Conclusions Racial disparities in EC are caused by a complex web of interconnected factors that ultimately lead to worse outcomes in Black women. While precision medicine has helped to close the gap, social determinants of health should be addressed, and models focusing on the complex interactions between biologic, genetic, and social factors should be utilized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katyayani Papatla
- Icahn School of Medicine at the Mount Sinai, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, New York, NY, United States
| | - Theofano Orfanelli
- Stony Brook Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | | | - Tracy Layne
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elena Baldwin
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Aurora Leibold
- Mount Sinai West, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephanie V. Blank
- Icahn School of Medicine at the Mount Sinai, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, New York, NY, United States
| | - Samantha Cohen
- Icahn School of Medicine at the Mount Sinai, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fairley R, Lillard JW, Berk A, Cornew S, Gaspero J, Gillespie J, Horne LL, Kidane S, Munro SB, Parsons M, Powers ER, Rizzo SE, Tishcler A, Wohl H, Weiss MC. Increasing Clinical Trial Participation of Black Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:1701-1717. [PMID: 37314691 PMCID: PMC11101578 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01644-z] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite racial disparities in breast cancer mortality, Black women remain underrepresented in clinical trials. In this mixed methods research, 48 Black women were engaged via focus group discussions and in-depth interviews to better understand the lived experience of women with breast cancer. The results of this qualitative study informed the development of a subsequent online survey to identify barriers, motivators, and other factors that influence decision-making by Black women diagnosed with breast cancer when considering clinical trial participation. Among the 257 Black survey participants, most (95%) were aware of clinical trials; of those, most viewed them as lifesaving (81%) and/or benefiting others (90%). Negative perceptions such as serious side effects (58%), not receiving real treatment (52%), or risk of potential harm (62%) were indicated. Barriers included financial expenses (49%), concerns that their condition could be made worse (29%), that they would receive a placebo (28%), or that treatment was unapproved (28%). Participants were more likely than their health care providers (HCPs) to initiate discussions of clinical trials (53% versus 33%), and 29% of participants indicated a need for more information about risks and benefits, even after having those conversations. The most trustworthy sources of information on clinical trials were HCPs (66%) and breast cancer support groups (64%). These results suggest that trusted communities are key for providing education on clinical trials. However, there is also a need for HCPs to proactively discuss clinical trials with patients to ensure that they are adequately informed about all aspects of participation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricki Fairley
- TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, Annapolis, MD, USA
| | - James W Lillard
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Sophia Cornew
- Patient Network and Data, Invitae, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - LaTrisha L Horne
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Emily R Powers
- TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, Annapolis, MD, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Marisa C Weiss
- Breastcancer.org, Ardmore, PA, USA
- Lankenau Medical Center, Wynnewood, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wei JX, Shastri A, Sica RA, Mantzaris I, Kornblum N, Shah U, Janakiram M, Gritsman K, Verma A, Goldfinger M, Cooper D, Shah N. Impact of race and ethnicity on early mortality in multiple myeloma: a SEER analysis. Haematologica 2024; 109:1480-1486. [PMID: 37881838 PMCID: PMC11063841 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2023.283304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, there have been significant advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma which has led to an improvement in overall survival.1,2 However, a notable proportion of patients continue to experience early mortality (EM), defined as 2 years from the time of diagnosis. This raises the possibility that improvements in myeloma survival have not extended equally to all groups. Using the latest data drawn from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results database of patients in the United States spanning 2000-2019, we study impact of important sociodemographic factors on EM. Through regression modeling, we demonstrate that patients diagnosed from 2000-2005, of older age, male sex, and of certain racial minority status (non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic) have higher odds of EM. Of these factors, minority status contributed to worse 2-year overall survival as well. We evaluate whether income, as a surrogate to access to care, could potentially explain this finding, but find that race has a distinct relationship with EM that is not modified by income. This is further reinforced by subgroup analysis. After characterizing groups vulnerable to EM, we examine reasons for these disparities and potential avenues to address them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John X Wei
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Aditi Shastri
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - R Alejandro Sica
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Ioannis Mantzaris
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Noah Kornblum
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Urvi Shah
- Myeloma Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York
| | - Murali Janakiram
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Kira Gritsman
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Amit Verma
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Mendel Goldfinger
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Dennis Cooper
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York
| | - Nishi Shah
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology, Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Commaroto S, Camacho-Rivera M, Guo Y, Hong YR, Turner K, Islam IK, Rivera A, Islam JY. Racial and ethnic disparities in knowledge, attitudes, and invitation to participate in clinical trials among cancer survivors in the United States: An analysis of the 2020 U.S. HINTS. Prev Med Rep 2024; 37:102564. [PMID: 38205172 PMCID: PMC10776641 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102564] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the use of clinical trials to provide gold-standard evidence of cancer treatment and intervention effectiveness, racial/ethnic minorities are frequently underrepresented participants. Our objective was to evaluate racial/ethnic differences in knowledge and attitudes towards clinical trials among U.S. cancer survivors. Methods We leveraged the 2020 Health Informational National Trends Survey (HINTS) data (February-June 2020), which is a weighted, nationally representative survey of 3865 adults (≥18 years), including cancer survivors. We descriptively evaluated cancer survivor's (n = 553) knowledge of clinical trials, and trusted sources of information regarding clinical trials. Using Poisson regression, we estimated predictors of self-reported knowledge of clinical trials. Results Among cancer survivors, 82 % were NH-White and 60 % self-reported to at least have some knowledge about clinical trials. When asked about factors that would influence their decision to participate in clinical trials, participants across racial groups frequently chose "I would want to get better" and "If the standard care was not covered by my insurance." NH-White (76 %), NH-Black (78 %), and Hispanic/Latinx (77 %) cancer survivors reported their trusted source of information about clinical trials was their health care provider; NH-Asian cancer survivors reported their health care provider (51 %) as well as government health agencies (30 %) as trusted sources. Cancer survivors with only a high school degree were less likely to have any knowledge of clinical trials compared to those with a Baccalaureate degree or more (aPR:0.61;95 % CI:0.45-0.83). Conclusion Health care providers are a trusted source of clinical trial information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Commaroto
- Cancer Epidemiology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 36635, USA
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, USA
| | - Marlene Camacho-Rivera
- Department of Community Health, SUNY Downstate School of Public Health, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- UF Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Kea Turner
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 36635, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani School of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33635, USA
| | - Imran K. Islam
- College of Letters and Science, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
| | - Argelis Rivera
- Department of Hospital Medicine, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jessica Y. Islam
- Cancer Epidemiology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 36635, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani School of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33635, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chapman C, Jayasekera J, Dash C, Sheppard V, Mandelblatt J. A health equity framework to support the next generation of cancer population simulation models. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2023; 2023:255-264. [PMID: 37947339 PMCID: PMC10846912 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past 2 decades, population simulation modeling has evolved as an effective public health tool for surveillance of cancer trends and estimation of the impact of screening and treatment strategies on incidence and mortality, including documentation of persistent cancer inequities. The goal of this research was to provide a framework to support the next generation of cancer population simulation models to identify leverage points in the cancer control continuum to accelerate achievement of equity in cancer care for minoritized populations. In our framework, systemic racism is conceptualized as the root cause of inequity and an upstream influence acting on subsequent downstream events, which ultimately exert physiological effects on cancer incidence and mortality and competing comorbidities. To date, most simulation models investigating racial inequity have used individual-level race variables. Individual-level race is a proxy for exposure to systemic racism, not a biological construct. However, single-level race variables are suboptimal proxies for the multilevel systems, policies, and practices that perpetuate inequity. We recommend that future models designed to capture relationships between systemic racism and cancer outcomes replace or extend single-level race variables with multilevel measures that capture structural, interpersonal, and internalized racism. Models should investigate actionable levers, such as changes in health care, education, and economic structures and policies to increase equity and reductions in health-care-based interpersonal racism. This integrated approach could support novel research approaches, make explicit the effects of different structures and policies, highlight data gaps in interactions between model components mirroring how factors act in the real world, inform how we collect data to model cancer equity, and generate results that could inform policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Chapman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, and the Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety in the Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and the Houston VA, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jinani Jayasekera
- Health Equity and Decision Sciences Research Laboratory, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chiranjeev Dash
- Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Vanessa Sheppard
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jeanne Mandelblatt
- Departments of Oncology and Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Cancer Prevention and Control Program at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Georgetown Lombardi Institute for Cancer and Aging Research, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chan RJ, Milch VE, Crawford-Williams F, Agbejule OA, Joseph R, Johal J, Dick N, Wallen MP, Ratcliffe J, Agarwal A, Nekhlyudov L, Tieu M, Al-Momani M, Turnbull S, Sathiaraj R, Keefe D, Hart NH. Patient navigation across the cancer care continuum: An overview of systematic reviews and emerging literature. CA Cancer J Clin 2023; 73:565-589. [PMID: 37358040 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Patient navigation is a strategy for overcoming barriers to reduce disparities and to improve access and outcomes. The aim of this umbrella review was to identify, critically appraise, synthesize, and present the best available evidence to inform policy and planning regarding patient navigation across the cancer continuum. Systematic reviews examining navigation in cancer care were identified in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), Epistemonikos, and Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) databases and in the gray literature from January 1, 2012, to April 19, 2022. Data were screened, extracted, and appraised independently by two authors. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Review and Research Syntheses was used for quality appraisal. Emerging literature up to May 25, 2022, was also explored to capture primary research published beyond the coverage of included systematic reviews. Of the 2062 unique records identified, 61 systematic reviews were included. Fifty-four reviews were quantitative or mixed-methods reviews, reporting on the effectiveness of cancer patient navigation, including 12 reviews reporting costs or cost-effectiveness outcomes. Seven qualitative reviews explored navigation needs, barriers, and experiences. In addition, 53 primary studies published since 2021 were included. Patient navigation is effective in improving participation in cancer screening and reducing the time from screening to diagnosis and from diagnosis to treatment initiation. Emerging evidence suggests that patient navigation improves quality of life and patient satisfaction with care in the survivorship phase and reduces hospital readmission in the active treatment and survivorship care phases. Palliative care data were extremely limited. Economic evaluations from the United States suggest the potential cost-effectiveness of navigation in screening programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond J Chan
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Vivienne E Milch
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Cancer Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fiona Crawford-Williams
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Oluwaseyifunmi Andi Agbejule
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ria Joseph
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jolyn Johal
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Narayanee Dick
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Matthew P Wallen
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Ratcliffe
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anupriya Agarwal
- Cancer Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Larissa Nekhlyudov
- Internal Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Tieu
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Dorothy Keefe
- Cancer Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Hart
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Human Performance Research Centre, Innovative Solutions for Well-being and Health (INSIGHT) Research Institute, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pal A, Smith B, Allan C, Karikios D, Boyle F. Improving Access to Cancer Clinical Trials for Patients From Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds in Australia: A Survey of Clinical and Research Professionals. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:1039-1047. [PMID: 37677123 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with cancer from racial and ethnic minorities, referred to as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) in Australia, are significantly under-represented in cancer clinical trials. We performed a national survey of the Australian cancer clinical trials workforce to determine barriers and preferred solutions to address this inequity. METHODS A 15-item online survey containing both closed- and open-ended purpose-designed questions was created using REDCap. The survey was emailed to members of the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia, Medical Oncology Group of Australia, and Australian cancer cooperative trial groups, and promoted via Twitter. Descriptive analyses summarized quantitative data, and free-text entries underwent thematic analysis with NVivo Version 12. RESULTS Ninety one respondents completed the survey-with representation across Australia. Eighty-seven percent were directly involved in clinical trial recruitment. Sixty-eight percent were clinicians. Seventy-four percent of respondents did not collect routine data on CALD patient enrollment to cancer clinical trials. Communication (eg, lack of translated materials) and opportunity-related barriers (eg, exclusionary trial protocols) were the most frequently perceived barriers to recruitment. Additionally, qualitative analysis indicated that insufficient consultation time and difficulties accessing interpreters for patients with non-English language preference were significant barriers. Trial navigators and a generic cancer trial pamphlet available in multiple languages were judged the most likely solutions to improve recruitment. CONCLUSION This study articulates the Australian clinical trials workforce's perspective on current barriers and potential solutions to the under-representation of patients from CALD backgrounds on cancer clinical trials. The insights and solutions from this survey provide steps toward achieving equity in Australian cancer clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Pal
- Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ben Smith
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Viana JN, Pilbeam C, Howard M, Scholz B, Ge Z, Fisser C, Mitchell I, Raman S, Leach J. Maintaining High-Touch in High-Tech Digital Health Monitoring and Multi-Omics Prognostication: Ethical, Equity, and Societal Considerations in Precision Health for Palliative Care. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2023; 27:461-473. [PMID: 37861713 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2023.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Advances in digital health, systems biology, environmental monitoring, and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to revolutionize health care, ushering a precision health future. More than disease treatment and prevention, precision health aims at maintaining good health throughout the lifespan. However, how can precision health impact care for people with a terminal or life-limiting condition? We examine here the ethical, equity, and societal/relational implications of two precision health modalities, (1) integrated systems biology/multi-omics analysis for disease prognostication and (2) digital health technologies for health status monitoring and communication. We focus on three main ethical and societal considerations: benefits and risks associated with integration of these modalities into the palliative care system; inclusion of underrepresented and marginalized groups in technology development and deployment; and the impact of high-tech modalities on palliative care's highly personalized and "high-touch" practice. We conclude with 10 recommendations for ensuring that precision health technologies, such as multi-omics prognostication and digital health monitoring, for palliative care are developed, tested, and implemented ethically, inclusively, and equitably.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Noel Viana
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Responsible Innovation Future Science Platform, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Caitlin Pilbeam
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Mark Howard
- Monash Data Futures Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Philosophy, School of Philosophical, Historical and International Studies, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Brett Scholz
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Zongyuan Ge
- Monash Data Futures Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Data Science & AI, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Carys Fisser
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Imogen Mitchell
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Intensive Care Unit, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sujatha Raman
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Joan Leach
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ribeiro EFO, Belmiro AAMDLM, Boas LCV, Niemann CU. How to set up a clinical research center in Brazil, as an example of a middle-income country. Semin Hematol 2023; 60:233-242. [PMID: 37770365 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
In health care, innovation is a core part of the process that pushes advances forward. Drug and device development follow a step-by-step process from the discovery of a molecule to the final product. While patent filing and preclinical studies are usually performed by academic centers or start-ups, the clinical development is usually performed by pharmaceutical companies. To assess safety, efficacy and fulfil regulatory demands, clinical trials must be performed in sequential Phase I, II, and III stages prior to market access. In this context, clinical research centers have been established around the globe, also outside traditional academic centers, aiming to increase the access for patients to participate in clinical trials and the capacity for clinical development. The increasing number of clinical trial sites across the world, gives pharmaceutical companies, investigators and developers an improved access to properly test the exponentially increasing number of potential medicinal products and treatment approaches in trials in different parts of the world. Historically, Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) did not significantly take part in clinical trial development. As participation in all steps of clinical research provides earlier access to novel treatment options in LMIC along with creating data on efficacy and toxicity within more diverse populations, it is warranted to improve clinical trial access in LMIC. With the goal to provide input on how to tackle the challenges during the built of a clinical research center, we here describe the experience from setting up a clinical trial unit within a private hospital network in Brasília, Brazil, a Middle-Income country, to provide inspiration, "how to" knowledge and a recipe for those with a similar road ahead in LMIC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carsten Utoft Niemann
- Hospital Santa Lúcia Sul, Brasília, Brazil; Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Espinoza-Gutarra MR, Ailawadhi S. Bridging the gap: how do we enroll more racial-ethnic minority patients in hematological drug trials? Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:905-910. [PMID: 37870168 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2273851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel R Espinoza-Gutarra
- Assistant Professor, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Sikander Ailawadhi
- Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ospina-Romero M, Brenowitz WD, Glymour MM, Westrick A, Graff RE, Hayes-Larson E, Mayeda ER, Ackley SF, Kobayashi LC. Education, incident cancer, and rate of memory decline in a national sample of US adults in mid-to-later-life. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101530. [PMID: 37210786 PMCID: PMC10332197 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2023.101530] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Middle-aged and older adults who develop cancer experience memory loss following diagnosis, but memory decline in the years before and after cancer diagnosis is slower compared to their cancer-free counterparts. Educational attainment strongly predicts memory function during aging, but it is unclear whether education protects against memory loss related to cancer incidence or modifies long-term memory trajectories in middle-aged and older cancer survivors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data were from 14,449 adults (3,248 with incident cancer, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) aged 50+ in the population-based US Health and Retirement Study from 1998 to 2016. Memory was assessed every two years as a composite of immediate and delayed word recall tests and proxy assessments for impaired individuals. Memory scores all time points were standardized at to the baseline distribution. Using multivariate-adjusted linear mixed-effects models, we estimated rates of memory decline in the years before cancer diagnosis, shortly after diagnosis, and in the years after diagnosis. We compared rates of memory decline between incident cancer cases and age-matched cancer-free adults, overall and according to level of education (<12 years, "low"; 12 to <16 years, "intermediate"; ≥16 years, "high"). RESULTS Incident cancer diagnoses were followed by short-term declines in memory averaging 0.06 standard deviation (SD) units (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.084, -0.036). Those with low education experienced the strongest magnitude of short-term decline in memory after diagnosis (-0.10 SD units, 95% CI: -0.15, -0.05), but this estimate was not statistically significantly different from the short-term decline in memory experienced by those with high education (-0.04 SD units, 95% CI: -0.08, 0.01; p-value for education as an effect modifier = 0.15). In the years prior to and following an incident cancer diagnosis, higher educational attainment was associated with better memory, but it did not modify the difference in rate of long-term memory decline between cancer survivors and those who remained cancer-free. DISCUSSION Education was associated with better memory function over time among both cancer survivors and cancer-free adults aged 50 and over. Low education may be associated with a stronger short-term decline in memory after a cancer diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ospina-Romero
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, United States of America; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, United States of America.
| | - Willa D Brenowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, United States of America; Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, Portland, United States of America
| | - M Maria Glymour
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Ashly Westrick
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, United States of America
| | - Rebecca E Graff
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Eleanor Hayes-Larson
- Department of Epidemiology, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Rose Mayeda
- Department of Epidemiology, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Sarah F Ackley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Lindsay C Kobayashi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Steyaert S, Pizurica M, Nagaraj D, Khandelwal P, Hernandez-Boussard T, Gentles AJ, Gevaert O. Multimodal data fusion for cancer biomarker discovery with deep learning. NAT MACH INTELL 2023; 5:351-362. [PMID: 37693852 PMCID: PMC10484010 DOI: 10.1038/s42256-023-00633-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Technological advances now make it possible to study a patient from multiple angles with high-dimensional, high-throughput multi-scale biomedical data. In oncology, massive amounts of data are being generated ranging from molecular, histopathology, radiology to clinical records. The introduction of deep learning has significantly advanced the analysis of biomedical data. However, most approaches focus on single data modalities leading to slow progress in methods to integrate complementary data types. Development of effective multimodal fusion approaches is becoming increasingly important as a single modality might not be consistent and sufficient to capture the heterogeneity of complex diseases to tailor medical care and improve personalised medicine. Many initiatives now focus on integrating these disparate modalities to unravel the biological processes involved in multifactorial diseases such as cancer. However, many obstacles remain, including lack of usable data as well as methods for clinical validation and interpretation. Here, we cover these current challenges and reflect on opportunities through deep learning to tackle data sparsity and scarcity, multimodal interpretability, and standardisation of datasets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Steyaert
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research (BMIR), Department of Medicine, Stanford University
| | - Marija Pizurica
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research (BMIR), Department of Medicine, Stanford University
| | | | | | - Tina Hernandez-Boussard
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research (BMIR), Department of Medicine, Stanford University
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University
| | - Andrew J Gentles
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research (BMIR), Department of Medicine, Stanford University
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University
| | - Olivier Gevaert
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics Research (BMIR), Department of Medicine, Stanford University
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Clinical trial participation predicts improved survival in older adults receiving allogeneic blood and marrow transplant. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:120. [PMID: 36869287 PMCID: PMC9985233 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-03803-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults represent a large oncologic demographic and are under-represented within oncology research despite constituting nearly two-thirds of the oncologic population in the United States. Because many social factors influence research participation, those who enroll in research do not reflect the oncology population at large, introducing bias and creating issue with external validity of studies. The same factors that influence study enrollment may also impact cancer outcomes, meaning that those who enroll in studies may already have an improved chance of cancer survival, further skewing results of these studies. This study evaluates characteristics that influence study enrollment in older adults and explore to what degree these factors may influence survival after allogeneic blood or marrow transplantation. METHODS This retrospective comparison study evaluates 63 adults aged 60 and above undergoing allogenic transplantation at one institution. Patients who elected and declined enrollment in a non-therapeutic observational study were evaluated. Demographic and clinical characteristics between groups were compared and assessed as predictors of transplant survival, including decision to enroll in the study. RESULTS Participants who chose to enroll in the parent study were not different with regard to gender, race/ethnicity, age, insurance type, donor age, and neighborhood income/poverty level compared to patients who were invited to participate but declined enrollment. The research participant group had higher proportion assessed as being fully active (23.8% vs. 12.7%, p = 0.034) and lower mean comorbidity scores (1.0 vs 2.47, p = 0.008). Enrollment in an observational study independently predicted transplant survival (HR = 0.316, 95% CI 0.12-0.82, p = 0.017). When controlling for relevant confounders of disease severity, comorbidities, and transplant age, enrolling in the parent study was associated with a lower hazards of death following transplant (HR = 0.302, 95% CI 0.10-0.87, p = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS Despite being demographically comparable, persons who enrolled in one non-therapeutic transplant study had significantly improved survivorship than those who did not participate in observational research. These findings suggest that there are unidentified factors that influence study involvement that may also impact disease survivorship, over-estimating outcomes from these studies. Results from prospective observational studies should be interpreted with the consideration that study participants have an improved chance of survival at baseline.
Collapse
|
14
|
Walker DM, Swoboda CM, Shiu-Yee K, Tarver WL, Nolan TS, Joseph JJ. Diversity of Participation in Clinical Trials and Influencing Factors: Findings from the Health Information National Trends Survey 2020. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:961-969. [PMID: 36138277 PMCID: PMC10039144 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07780-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical trial diversity is critical to advance health and health equity. Research addressing the discrepancy between goals of achieving clinical trial diversity and realities of study enrollment remains underdeveloped. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine the association between race/ethnicity and clinical trial invitation, participation, knowledge, and sources of influence on clinical trial participation. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional, observational study using nationally representative data from 3689 US adults (≥ 18 years of age) who responded to the Health Information National Trends Survey fielded from February 24 to June 15, 2020. MAIN MEASURES Primary outcomes included clinical trial invitation, participation, knowledge, and sources of influence on participation. The independent variable of interest is self-reported race/ethnicity. KEY RESULTS Respondents identifying as non-Hispanic Black (relative to non-Hispanic White) had higher odds of being invited into a clinical trial (adjusted odds ratio: 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1, 3.7), but no differences in odds of participation were observed by race/ethnicity. Respondents from all races/ethnicities reported that personal healthcare providers were the most trusted source of clinical trial information. Hispanic (marginal effect (ME): - 0.09; 95% CI: - 0.16, - 0.03), non-Hispanic Black (ME: - 0.11; 95% CI: - 0.18, - 0.04), and non-Hispanic other (ME: - 0.11; 95% CI: - 0.19, - 0.02) respondents had lower odds than non-Hispanic White respondents of saying they would be influenced "a lot" by their doctor encouraging participation. Non-Hispanic Black respondents had significantly lower odds (relative to non-Hispanic White) of indicating family encouragement would influence their clinical trial participation decision "a lot" (ME: - 0.09; 95%: CI: - 0.14, - 0.03). CONCLUSION While personal healthcare providers were trusted sources of information, racial/ethnic minority populations noted lower odds of clinical trial participation influence from providers and family. Thus, it is imperative for the healthcare, government, and industry organizations to build trust in medicine and science.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Walker
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 700 Ackerman Ave, Suite 4000, Columbus, OH, 43202, USA.
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking (CATALYST), College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Christine M Swoboda
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking (CATALYST), College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Karen Shiu-Yee
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking (CATALYST), College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Willi L Tarver
- The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking (CATALYST), College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timiya S Nolan
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- The James Nursing Research Department, Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joshua J Joseph
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Barry D, Steinberg JR, Towner M, Barber EL, Simon M, Roque DR. Enrollment of Racial and Ethnic Minoritized Groups in Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Trials: A Review of the Scope of the Problem, Contributing Factors, and Strategies to Improve Inclusion. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 66:22-35. [PMID: 36657045 PMCID: PMC9869456 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Racial inequities are well-documented across the gynecologic oncology care continuum, including the representation of racial and ethnic minoritized groups (REMGs) in gynecologic oncology clinical trials. We specifically reviewed the scope of REMG disparities, contributing factors, and strategies to improve inclusion. We found systematic and progressively worsening under-enrollment of REMGs, particularly of Black and Latinx populations. In addition, race/ethnicity data reporting is poor, yet a prerequisite for accountability to recruitment goals. Trial participation barriers are multifactorial, and successful remediation likely requires multi-level strategies. More rigorous, transparent data on trial participants and effectiveness studies on REMG recruitment strategies are needed to improve enrollment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danika Barry
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Jecca R Steinberg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Mary Towner
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Emma L Barber
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Melissa Simon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Dario R Roque
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Corneli A, Hanlen-Rosado E, McKenna K, Araojo R, Corbett D, Vasisht K, Siddiqi B, Johnson T, Clark LT, Calvert SB. Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Trials. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2023; 113:489-499. [PMID: 36628990 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Women and people from most racial and ethnic groups in the United States have historically been under-represented in clinical trials of investigational medical products. Inadequate representation of these groups may lead to an incomplete understanding of the safety and efficacy of new drugs, devices, biologics, and vaccines, and limit the generalizability of trial findings. As a result, new medical products may not be beneficial to all people who need them, and existing inequities in outcomes among various population groups may remain unchanged or worsen, or new disparities may arise. Although much work has focused on study-level strategies, research organizations must make systemic changes to how clinical trials are envisioned and implemented to achieve sustainable support for diversity and inclusion in clinical trials. The Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative (CTTI) conducted interviews with leaders at institutions that conduct clinical trials to explore perspectives on organizational-level practices that promote diversity and inclusion in clinical trials. Leaders described motivations, such as an ethical and moral imperative; organizational practices, such as staff investment and resource allocation; perceived return on investments, such as better science; and deterrents, such as cost and time. The CTTI also convened an expert meeting to discuss the interview findings and provide guidance. We present the interview findings and expert guidance in a framework that describes four key areas-commitment, partnerships, accountability, and resources-on sustaining organizational-level approaches for improving diversity and inclusion in clinical trials, with the ultimate goal of advancing health equity. Institutions who conduct and support clinical trials should implement organizational-level approaches to improve equitable access and diverse patient participation in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Corneli
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emily Hanlen-Rosado
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kevin McKenna
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Richardae Araojo
- United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Springs, Maryland, USA
| | - Dawn Corbett
- National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Kaveeta Vasisht
- United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Springs, Maryland, USA
| | - Bernadette Siddiqi
- Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Sara B Calvert
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize the most recent publications highlighting the trends and disparities among patients diagnosed with high-risk endometrial cancer. RECENT FINDINGS Endometrial cancer mortality continues to rise, driven by the increasing incidence of high-risk histologic subtypes that accounts for a disproportionate number of endometrial cancer deaths. The lack of progress made in endometrial cancer treatment, particularly of high-risk histologic subtypes, disproportionately affects black women who are more likely to be diagnosed with these aggressive tumor types. Even when accounting for high-risk histology, various factors across the spectrum of care may influence the survival disparities between black and white women, including timely access to guideline-concordant care, clinical trial enrollment, and systemic racism that impacts cancer outcomes. SUMMARY In this review, we highlight the disproportionate impact of worsening endometrial cancer mortality and healthcare inequalities contributing to the endometrial cancer survival disparity between black and white women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cortney M Eakin
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Tiffany Lai
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Joshua G Cohen
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope, Irvine, CA 92618
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rocque GB, Andrews C, Lawhon VM, Frazier R, Ingram SA, Smith ML, Wagner LI, Zubkoff L, Tung N, Wallner LP, Wolff AC. Oncologist-Reported Barriers and Facilitators to Enrolling Patients in Optimization Trials That Test Less Intense Cancer Treatment. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e263-e273. [PMID: 36473142 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE As outcomes improve in early-stage breast cancer, clinical trials are undergoing a paradigm shift from intensification trials (more therapy) to improve survival to optimization trials, which assess the potential for using less toxic therapy while preserving survival outcomes. However, little is known about physician perspectives in community and academic settings about possible barriers and facilitators that could affect accrual to optimization clinical trials and the generalizability of future findings. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study with semistructured interviews of medical oncologists from different academic and community practices to assess their perspectives on optimization trials. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Three independent coders used a content analysis approach to analyze transcripts using NVivo. Major themes and exemplary quotes were extracted. RESULTS All 39 physicians reported that they would enroll patients in optimization clinical trials. Oncologists highlighted specific reasons to consider optimization trials. These included quality-of-life improvement by reducing toxicity, reduction in financial toxicity, fertility preservation, ability to avoid chemotherapy, minimization of overtreatment in patients with comorbid conditions, personalized treatment, opportunities to test novel therapies, and leveraging the availability of targeted therapies. Oncologists also identified accrual barriers, such as tumor-specific biology, individual (host) factors, prognostic markers of risk, access to therapies, provider experience, and system constraints. They voiced recommendations regarding preliminary data, trial design, and tools to support enrollment in optimization trials. CONCLUSION Although oncologists are generally willing to enroll patients on optimization clinical trials, barriers affect their acceptance. A scientific focus on overcoming these barriers is needed to support future enrollment on trials tailoring therapy on the basis of risk and potential benefit to allow true personalization of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle B Rocque
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Birmingham, AL.,University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Birmingham, AL.,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, AL
| | - Courtney Andrews
- Institute for Human Rights, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Valerie M Lawhon
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Birmingham, AL
| | - Rachel Frazier
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Birmingham, AL
| | - Stacey A Ingram
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Birmingham, AL
| | | | | | - Lisa Zubkoff
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, AL.,University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, Birmingham, AL.,Birmingham/Atlanta Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Birmingham VA Healthcare System, Birmingham, AL
| | - Nadine Tung
- Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Lauren P Wallner
- University of Michigan, Departments of Internal Medicine and Epidemiology, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Antonio C Wolff
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Antoine-LaVigne D, Hayes T, Fortenberry M, Ohikhuai E, Addison C, Mozee S, McGill D, Shanks ML, Roby C, Jenkins BWC, Tchounwou PB. Trust and Biomedical Research Engagement of Minority and Under-Represented Communities in Mississippi, USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1592. [PMID: 36674346 PMCID: PMC9860548 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021592] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Trust is critical to the development and maintenance of effective research collaborations and community engagement. The purpose of this study was to assess the current attitudes and level of trust pertaining to health research among residents of Central Mississippi, the priority health region for the Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI) Center for Health Disparities Research (RCHDR) at Jackson State University. The cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2022. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics carried out by SPSS statistical software. A total of 146 participants responded to the survey. The participants were predominately African American (99%) and female (75%). Historical research studies, the researchers' qualities, and potential benefits from participation were factors affecting the level of trust in the research process. Ninety percent (n = 131) expressed that it was important to be involved in the research process, and 98.5% (n = 144) agreed that discussing the research findings with the participants was important for establishing trust in the research process. While trust in the research process does not guarantee participation, trust is a precursor for those who decide to engage in health disparities research. Key findings will be integrated into the RCHDR research agenda to foster further development and implementation of innovative community-based participatory research toward the control and/or prevention of diseases that disproportionately affect minority and under-represented populations in Mississippi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donna Antoine-LaVigne
- RCMI Center for Health Disparities Research, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Traci Hayes
- School of Health Professions, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Marty Fortenberry
- RCMI Center for Health Disparities Research, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Evidence Ohikhuai
- RCMI Center for Health Disparities Research, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Clifton Addison
- Jackson Heart Study Graduate Training and Education Center, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39213, USA
| | - Sam Mozee
- Mississippi Urban Research Center, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39201, USA
| | - Dorothy McGill
- Innovative Behavioral Services, Ridgeland, MS 39157, USA
| | - Mangle L. Shanks
- Shanks Health Housing, Employment, Education & Training Services, Inc., Jackson, MS 39289, USA
| | | | - Brenda W. Campbell Jenkins
- Jackson Heart Study Graduate Training and Education Center, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39213, USA
| | - Paul B. Tchounwou
- RCMI Center for Health Disparities Research, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Huang B, Huang H, Zhang S, Zhang D, Shi Q, Liu J, Guo J. Artificial intelligence in pancreatic cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:6931-6954. [PMID: 36276650 PMCID: PMC9576619 DOI: 10.7150/thno.77949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the deadliest disease, with a five-year overall survival rate of just 11%. The pancreatic cancer patients diagnosed with early screening have a median overall survival of nearly ten years, compared with 1.5 years for those not diagnosed with early screening. Therefore, early diagnosis and early treatment of pancreatic cancer are particularly critical. However, as a rare disease, the general screening cost of pancreatic cancer is high, the accuracy of existing tumor markers is not enough, and the efficacy of treatment methods is not exact. In terms of early diagnosis, artificial intelligence technology can quickly locate high-risk groups through medical images, pathological examination, biomarkers, and other aspects, then screening pancreatic cancer lesions early. At the same time, the artificial intelligence algorithm can also be used to predict the survival time, recurrence risk, metastasis, and therapy response which could affect the prognosis. In addition, artificial intelligence is widely used in pancreatic cancer health records, estimating medical imaging parameters, developing computer-aided diagnosis systems, etc. Advances in AI applications for pancreatic cancer will require a concerted effort among clinicians, basic scientists, statisticians, and engineers. Although it has some limitations, it will play an essential role in overcoming pancreatic cancer in the foreseeable future due to its mighty computing power.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Huang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.,School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Haoran Huang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.,School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Shuting Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.,School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Dingyue Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.,School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qingya Shi
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jianzhou Liu
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Junchao Guo
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cunningham-Erves J, Kusnoor SV, Villalta-Gil V, Stallings SC, Ichimura JS, Israel TL, Harris PA, Wilkins CH. Development and pilot implementation of guidelines for culturally tailored research recruitment materials for African Americans and Latinos. BMC Med Res Methodol 2022; 22:248. [PMID: 36153481 PMCID: PMC9508728 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-022-01724-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies support cultural tailoring of recruitment materials as a strategy to promote the enrollment of minoritized groups in clinical trials. However, there is a lack of guidance for research teams to create culturally tailored materials, potentially contributing to low recruitment rates of minoritized groups. We describe the development and pilot testing of recruitment material guidelines used to culturally tailor clinical trial recruitment materials targeting African Americans and Latinos. Methods The guideline development team consisted of investigators, research staff, and community leaders and members experienced in the recruitment and community engagement of minoritized groups. The recruitment material guidelines were developed using the literature, focus groups with African Americans and Latinos, the teams’ research experience, and guidance from a community advisory board. To assess the effectiveness of the guidelines, a pilot study was conducted comparing advertisement click-through rates and enrollment outcomes between two institutions differing in use of culturally tailored versus non-tailored Facebook banner ads for the “Aspirin Dosing: A Patient-centric Trial Assessing Benefits and Long-Term Effectiveness” (ADAPTABLE) study. Results Five themes emerged from focus groups: (1) employ diversity and inclusion in recruitment efforts; (2) access multiple recruitment channels to increase reach and possible participation; (3) increase your “footwork”; (4) personalize outreach and recruitment to specific groups’ beliefs and values; (5) align recruitment messaging with language preferences and motivations for study participation; and (6) specify incentives for participation. Guidelines were: 1) be inclusive; 2) use all forms of media; 3) take a personalized approach; 4) align recruitment messaging with motivations for study participation; 5) specify incentives; and 6) get out into the community. Additional guidelines were developed addressing specific considerations for images and language when targeting African American and Latino populations. Pilot study results demonstrated that clicks per impression ratio (0.47 clicks per impression vs. 0.03 clicks per impression) and the percentage of African American enrollment were significantly higher when using tailored compared to non-tailored ads (12.8% vs. 8.3%, respectively). Conclusion The recruitment material guidelines offer practical recommendations to reach diverse populations for clinical trial participation more effectively. Our preliminary data supports use of these guidelines as a strategy to enhance recruitment of minoritized groups into clinical research studies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12874-022-01724-4.
Collapse
|
22
|
Beauchemin M, Santacroce SJ, Bona K, Dang H, Alexander S, Allen K, De Los Santos C, Fisher B, Muñeton-Castaño Y, Ponce O, Vargas S, Sugalski A, Sung L, Parsons S. Rationale and design of Children's Oncology Group (COG) study ACCL20N1CD: financial distress during treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in the United States. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:832. [PMID: 35764995 PMCID: PMC9237978 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08201-0] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study purpose is to describe trajectories of financial distress for parents of children (ages 1-14.9 years) with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The secondary aim is to identify multilevel factors (child, parent, household, treating institution) that influence change in financial distress over time. METHODS The study uses a prospective cohort design, repeated measurements, and mixed methods. The settings are Children's Oncology Group (COG) institutions participating in the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP). Eligible participants are English- and/or Spanish-speaking parents or legal guardians (hereafter "parents") of index children. Parents are asked to complete a survey during their child's induction (T1) and maintenance therapy (T2), and near treatment completion (T3). Study surveys include items about (a) the child's cancer and clinical course, (b) parental socio-economic status, financial distress and financial coping behaviors, and (c) household material hardships. At least 15 parents will be invited to participate in an optional semi-structured interview. NCORP institutions that enroll at least one parent must complete an annual survey about institution resources that could influence parental financial distress. DISCUSSION The results will inform future interventions to mitigate financial distress for parents of children diagnosed with ALL and could be instructive beyond this disease group. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was initially registered with the NCI Clinical Trial Reporting Program ID: NCI-2021-03,567 on June 16, 2021. The study can be found on clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier NCT04928599 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Beauchemin
- grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY USA ,grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY USA
| | - Sheila Judge Santacroce
- grid.10698.360000000122483208School of Nursing, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA ,grid.410711.20000 0001 1034 1720Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Kira Bona
- grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Department of Pediatric Oncology, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MB USA
| | - Ha Dang
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | | | - Kamala Allen
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Crystal De Los Santos
- grid.414149.d0000 0004 0383 4967Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Corpus Christi, TX USA
| | - Beth Fisher
- grid.428158.20000 0004 0371 6071Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA USA
| | | | - Olivia Ponce
- grid.428204.80000 0000 8741 3510Children’s Oncology Group, Monrovia, CA USA
| | - Sarah Vargas
- grid.428204.80000 0000 8741 3510Children’s Oncology Group, Monrovia, CA USA
| | - Aaron Sugalski
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX USA
| | | | - Susan Parsons
- grid.67033.310000 0000 8934 4045Tufts Medical Center, Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Boston, MA USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Enabling community input to improve equity in and access to translational research: The Community Coalition for Equity in Research. J Clin Transl Sci 2022; 6:e60. [PMID: 35720966 PMCID: PMC9161041 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2022.396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID vaccine trials illustrated the critical need for the development of mechanisms to serve as a bridge between least advantaged communities and researchers. Such mechanisms would increase the number of studies that are designed with community needs and interests in mind, in ways that will close gaps rather than widen them. This paper reports on the creation of the Community Coalition for Equity in Research, a community-driven resource designed to build community capacity to provide researchers with credible and actionable input on study design and implementation and increase researchers’ understanding of factors that influence community support of research. Methods and Results: We provide a description of the Coalition’s structure and process and an evaluation of its first year of operation. Researchers rated their experience very positively and reported that the Coalition’s review will improve their research. Coalition members reported high levels of satisfaction with their participation and the processes set up for them to engage with researchers. Members also largely agreed that their participation has value for their community, and that it has increased their interest in research and the likelihood that they would recommend research participation to others. Conclusions: The Coalition represents a model for increasing two-way engagement between researchers and the larger community. We are optimistic that the Coalition will continue to develop and grow into a vibrant entity that will bring value to both investigators and our local communities and will increase the consideration of equity as a foundational principle in all translational research.
Collapse
|
24
|
Polite B, D Tucker-Seeley R, Winkfield KM, Hicks-Courant K. Health Equity for Black Americans: The Past Cannot Be Prologue. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:252-254. [PMID: 33974835 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Blase Polite
- University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Reginald D Tucker-Seeley
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.,USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|