Geographic residency status and census tract socioeconomic status as determinants of colorectal cancer outcomes

Urban health advantage and penalty in aging populations: a comparative study across major megacities in China

Background

Urban living is linked to better health outcomes due to a combination of enhanced access to healthcare, transportation, and human development opportunities. However, spatial inequalities lead to disparities, resulting in urban health advantages and penalties. Understanding the relationship between health and urban development is needed to generate empirical evidence in promoting healthy aging populations. This study provides a comparative analysis using epidemiological evidence across diverse major Chinese cities, examining how their unique urban development trajectories over time have impacted the health of their aging residents.

Methods

We tracked changes in air pollution (NO2, PM2.5, O3), green space (measured by NDVI), road infrastructure (ring road areas), and nighttime lighting over 20 years in six major cities in China. We followed a longitudinal cohort of 4992 elderly participants (average age 87.8 years) over 16,824 person-years. We employed Cox proportional hazard regression to assess longevity, assessing 14 variables, including age, sex, ethnicity, marital status, residence, household income, occupation, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, and points of interest (POI) count of medicine-related facilities, sports, and leisure service-related places, and scenic spots within a 5 km-radius buffer.

Findings

Geographic proximity to points of interest significantly improves survival. Elderly living in proximity of the POI-rich areas had a 34.6%-35.6% lower mortality risk compared to those in POI-poor areas, for the highest compared to the lowest quartile. However, POI-rich areas had higher air pollution levels, including PM2.5 and NO2, which was associated with a 21% and 10% increase in mortality risk for increase of 10 μg/m3, respectively. The benefits of urban living had higher effect estimates in monocentric cities, with clearly defined central areas, compared to polycentric layouts, with multiple satellite city centers.

Interpretation

Spatial inequalities create urban health advantages for some and penalties for others. Proximity to public facilities and economic activities is associated with health benefits, and may counterbalance the negative health impacts of lower green space and higher air pollution. Our empirical evidence show optimal health gains for age-friendly urban environments come from a balance of infrastructure, points of interest, green spaces, and low air pollution.

Funding

Natural Science Foundation of Beijing (IS23105), National Natural Science Foundation of China (82250610230, 72061137004), World Health Organization (2024/1463606-0), Research Fund Vanke School of Public Health Tsinghua University (2024JC002), Beijing TaiKang YiCai Public Welfare Foundation, National Key R&D Program of China (2018YFC2000400).

Socioeconomic Deprivation and Health Care Use in Patients Enrolled in SWOG Cancer Clinical Trials

Importance

Reducing acute care use is an important strategy for improving value. Patients with cancer are at risk for unplanned emergency department (ED) visits and hospital stays (HS). Clinical trial patients have homogeneous treatment; despite this, structural barriers to care may independently impact acute care use.

Objective

To examine whether ED visits and HS within 12 months of trial enrollment are more common among Medicare enrollees who live in areas of socioeconomic deprivation or have Medicaid insurance.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included patients with cancer who were 65 years or older and treated in SWOG Cancer Research Network trials from 1999 to 2018 using data linked to Medicare claims. Data were collected from 1999 to 2019 and analyzed from 2022 to 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes were ED visits, HS, and costs in the first year following enrollment. Neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation was measured using patients' zip code linked to the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), measured on a 0 to 100 scale for increasing deprivation and categorized into tertiles (T1 to T3). Type of insurance was classified as Medicare with or without commercial insurance vs dual Medicare and Medicaid. Demographic, clinical, and prognostic factors were captured from trial records. Multivariable regression was used, and the association of ADI and insurance with each outcome was considered separately.

Results

In total, 3027 trial participants were analyzed. The median (range) age was 71 (65-98) years, 1280 (32.3%) were female, 221 (7.3%) were Black patients, 2717 (89.8%) were White patients, 90 (3.0%) had Medicare and Medicaid insurance, and 660 (22.3%) were in the areas of highest deprivation (ADI-T3). In all, 1094 patients (36.1%) had an ED visit and 983 patients (32.4%) had an HS. In multivariable generalized estimating equation, patients living in areas categorized as ADI-T3 were more likely to have an ED visit (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.10-1.62; P = .004). A similar but nonsignificant pattern was observed for HS (OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.96-1.93; P = .08). Patients from areas with the highest deprivation had a 62% increase in risk of either an ED visit or HS (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.25-2.09; P < .001). Patients with Medicare and Medicaid were 96% more likely to have an ED visit (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.56-2.46; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort of older patients enrolled in clinical trials, neighborhood deprivation and economic disadvantage were associated with an increase in ED visits and HS. Efforts are needed to ensure adequate resources to prevent unplanned use of acute care in socioeconomically vulnerable populations.

Factors Associated With Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Outcomes

Importance

Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy and surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) achieve less favorable clinical outcomes than non-Hispanic White patients, but the source of this disparity is incompletely understood.

Objective

To assess whether racial and ethnic disparities in treatment outcomes among patients with LARC could be accounted for by social determinants of health and demographic, clinical, and pathologic factors known to be associated with treatment response.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The National Cancer Database was interrogated to identify patients with T3 to T4 or N1 to N2 LARC treated with neoadjuvant therapy and surgery. Patients were diagnosed between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2017. Data were culled from the National Cancer Database from July 1, 2022, through December 31, 2023.

Exposure

Neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer followed by surgical resection.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) following neoadjuvant therapy. Secondary outcomes were rate of tumor downstaging and achievement of pN0 status.

Results

A total of 34 500 patient records were reviewed; 21 679 of the patients (62.8%) were men and 12 821 (37.2%) were women. The mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 59.7 (12.0) years. In terms of race and ethnicity, 2217 patients (6.4%) were Hispanic, 2843 (8.2%) were non-Hispanic Black, and 29 440 (85.3%) were non-Hispanic White. Hispanic patients achieved tumor downstaging (48.9% vs 51.8%; P = .01) and pN0 status (66.8% vs 68.8%; P = .02) less often than non-Hispanic White patients. Non-Hispanic Black race, but not Hispanic ethnicity, was associated with less tumor downstaging (odds ratio [OR], 0.86 [95% CI, 0.78-0.94]), less frequent pN0 status (OR, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.83-0.99]), and less frequent pCR (OR, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.72-0.92]). Other factors associated with reduced rate of pCR included rural location (OR, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.69-0.93]), lack of or inadequate insurance (OR for Medicaid, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.76-0.98]; OR for no insurance, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.54-0.78]), and treatment in a low-volume center (OR for first quartile, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.62-0.87]; OR for second quartile, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.70-0.90]; OR for third quartile, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.78-0.94]). Clinical and pathologic variables associated with a decreased pCR included higher tumor grade (OR, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.49-0.70]), advanced tumor stage (OR for T3, 0.56 [95% CI, 0.42-0.76]; OR for T4, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.22-0.42]), and lymph node-positive disease (OR for N1, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.77-0.89]; OR for N2, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.65-0.82]).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that disparate treatment outcomes for Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black patients are likely multifactorial in origin. Future investigation into additional social determinants of health and biological variables is warranted.

Racial disparities in the relationship of regional socioeconomic status and colorectal cancer survival in the five regions of Georgia

INTRODUCTION

The study's purpose was to examine 5-year colorectal cancer (CRC) survival rates between White and Black patients. We also determined whether regional socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with CRC survival between White and Black patients in the Clayton, West Central, East Central, Southeast, and Northeast Georgia public health districts.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis using data from the 1975 to 2016 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program. The 2015 United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Services county typology codes were used to identify region-level SES with persistent poverty, low employment, and low education. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression were performed.

RESULTS

Among 10,876 CRC patients (31.1% Black patients), 5-year CRC survival rates were lower among Black patients compared to White patients (65.4% vs. 69.9%; p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, White patients living in regions with persistent poverty had a 1.1-fold increased risk of CRC death (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.00-1.25) compared to those living in non-persistent poverty regions. Among Black patients, those living in regions with low education were at a 1.2-fold increased risk of CRC death (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.01-1.40) compared to those living in non-low education regions.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Black patients demonstrated lower CRC survival rates in Georgia compared to their White counterparts. White patients living in regions with persistent poverty, and Black patients living in regions with low education had an increased risk of CRC death. Our findings provide important evidence to all relevant stakeholders in allocating health resources aimed at CRC early detection and prevention and timely referral for CRC treatment by considering the patient's regional SES in Georgia.

Temporal trends in early-onset colorectal cancer incidence (2000-2020) by age group and five geographic regions in the state of Georgia

The increase of early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) among younger adults is a major public health concern. However, little is known about variations in CRC incidence across different age groups within small geographic areas in Georgia. We examined temporal trends of CRC incidence in Clayton, East Central, West Central, Northeast, and Southeast regions, by age groups. Annual incidence rates for CRC in individuals aged 15+ years during 2000-2020 in the five regions of Georgia were included. Temporal trends were examined within the five regions and stratified by age group. Joinpoint regression was employed to calculate the annual percent change and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among 20,215 CRC diagnoses, CRC incidence declined over time for East Central (-2.33%; 95% CI, -3.03, -1.64), Northeast (-1.63%; 95% CI, -2.15, -1.04), Southeast (-1.63%; 95% CI, -2.30, -0.96), and West Central (-1.53%; 95% CI, -2.04, -1.03) Georgia. In the 15-44 age group, a notable increase of CRC incidence was found in Clayton, Northeast, and Southeast regions with a range of 2.2%-3.4%. However, adults aged 60+ years experienced a significant decrease in CRC incidence for most Georgia regions (all p-value <0.05), except for the Clayton region. In conclusion, CRC incidence declined during 2000-2020 in most Georgia regions. However, early-onset CRC is a major concern in Georgia as young adults (<45 years) living in Clayton, Northeast, and Southeast Georgia experienced significant annual increases in CRC incidence. Targeted CRC screening and awareness campaigns should be prioritized for adults <45 years and in the most impacted areas in Georgia.

Relationship between area-level socioeconomic status and health-related quality of life among cancer survivors

Area-level socioeconomic status (SES) impacts cancer outcomes, such as stage at diagnosis, treatments received, and mortality. However, less is known about the relationship between area-level SES and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for cancer survivors. To assess the additive value of area-level SES data and the relative contribution of area- and individual-level SES for estimating cancer survivors' HRQOL, we conducted a secondary analysis of data from a population-based survey study of cancer survivors (the Measuring Your Health [MY-Health] Study). Multilevel multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships between individual-level SES, area-level SES as measured by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Social Vulnerability Index, and HRQOL group membership (high, average, low, or very low HRQOL). Area-level SES did not significantly increase model estimation accuracy compared to models using only individual-level SES. However, area-level SES could be an appropriate proxy when the individual-level SES is missing.

Social Deprivation and End-of-Life Care Use Among Adults With Cancer

PURPOSE

Socioeconomic differences are partially responsible for racial inequities in cancer outcomes, yet the association of area-level socioeconomic disadvantage and race with end-of-life (EOL) cancer care quality is poorly understood.

METHODS

This retrospective study used electronic medical records from an academic health system to identify 33,635 adults with cancer who died between 2013 and 2019. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined associations between decedent characteristics and EOL care, including emergency department (ED) visits, intensive care unit (ICU) stays, palliative care consultation (PCC), hospice order, and in-hospital deaths. Social deprivation index was used to measure socioeconomic disadvantages.

RESULTS

Racially minoritized decedents had higher odds of ICU stay than the least deprived White decedents (eg, other race Q3: aOR, 2.06 [99% CI, 1.26 to 0.3.39]). White and Black decedents from more deprived areas had lower odds of ED visit (White Q3: aOR, 0.382 [99% CI, 0.263 to 0.556]; Black Q3: aOR, 0.566 [99% CI, 0.373 to 0.858]) than least deprived White decedents. Compared with White decedents living in least deprived areas, racially minoritized decedents had higher odds of receiving PCC and hospice order, whereas White decedents in most deprived areas had lower odds of PCC (aOR, 0.727 [99% CI, 0.592 to 0.893]) and hospice order (aOR, 0.845 [99% CI, 0.724 to 0.986]). Greater deprivation was associated with greater odds of hospital death relative to least deprived White decedents, but only among minoritized decedents (eg, Black Q4: aOR, 2.16 [99% CI, 1.82 to 2.56]).

CONCLUSION

Area-level socioeconomic disadvantage is not uniformly associated with poorer EOL cancer care, with differences among decedents of different racial groups.

A national evaluation of adjuvant chemotherapy in pT4N0M0 colon cancer from the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

T stage is a prognostic biomarker for overall survival in colon cancer and pathologic T4 disease is a high-risk characteristic. Adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended to improve overall survival in pT4N0M0, but compliance with guidelines is unknown. We aimed to evaluate adjuvant chemotherapy use and impact on overall survival in pT4N0M0 colon cancer.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was reviewed for pT4N0M0 colon adenocarcinomas undergoing curative surgical resection (2010-2017). Cases were stratified into no adjuvant chemotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy cohorts. Moderated multiple regression assessed factors associated with no AC. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression assessed overall survival in propensity-score matched cohorts. The main outcome measures were adjuvant chemotherapy use, factors associated with adjuvant chemotherapy, and impact on overall survival.

RESULTS

Of 11 847 cases, 62.4% (n = 7391) received no adjuvant chemotherapy. With private insurance, comorbidities or income do not affect adjuvant chemotherapy use. Medicare cases with a Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index of 0 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.861, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.760 to 0.975; P = .019) and Medicare payors with high income (OR = 0.813, 95% CI = 0.690 to 0.959; P = .014) were associated with adjuvant chemotherapy. Medicaid Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index 0 (OR = 1.374, 95% CI = 1.125 to 1.679; P = .002) and uninsured Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index 0 (OR = 1.351, 95% CI = 1.120 to 1.629; P = .002) were associated with no adjuvant chemotherapy. Adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with improved 5-year overall survival (71.7% vs 56.4%; P < .001; adjusted hazard ratio = 0.543, 95% CI = 0.499 to 0.590; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Although adjuvant chemotherapy is associated with improved overall survival, compliance is low. There is a complex relationship between payor, income, comorbidity, and adjuvant chemotherapy receipt. Medicare patients with no comorbidities or higher income have better adjuvant chemotherapy use. With private insurance, adjuvant chemotherapy compliance is not affected by comorbidities or income, whereas Medicaid and uninsured patients with no comorbidities have poor compliance. Future work could target these disparities for equitable care.

Impact of rural residence on the presentation, management and survival of patients with non-metastatic muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma

PURPOSE

To assess the impact of rural and remote residence on the receipt of guidelines-recommended treatment, quality of treatment and overall survival (OS) in patients with non-metastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with MIBC were identified using National Cancer Database. Patients were classified into three residential areas. Logistic regression models were used to assess associations between geographic residence and receipt of radical cystectomy (RC) or chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Models were fitted to assess quality benchmarks of RC and CRT.

RESULTS

We identified 71,395 patients. Of those 58,874 (82.5%) were living in Metro areas, 8,534 (11.9%) in urban-rural adjacent (URA), and 3,987 (5.6%) in urban-rural remote to metro area (URR). URR residence was significantly associated with poor OS compared to URA and Metro residence (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81-0.94 and HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.87-0.93, p<0.001). There was no difference in the likelihood of receiving RC and CRT among different residential areas. Among patients who underwent RC; individuals living in URR were less likely to receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy and adequate lymph node dissection, and had a higher probability of positive surgical margin than those living in metro areas. For those who received CRT; individuals living in Metro areas were more likely to receive concomitant systemic therapy compared to URR.

CONCLUSIONS

Rural residence is associated with lower OS for MIBC patients and less likelihood of meeting quality benchmarks for RC and CRT. This data should be used to guide further health policy and allocation of resources for rural population.

Understanding Disparities in Receipt of Complex Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery at a Small Geographic Scale

OBJECTIVE

To define neighborhood-level disparities in the receipt of complex cancer surgery.

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the geographic variation of receipt of surgery among patients with complex gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, especially at a small geographic scale.

METHODS

This study included individuals diagnosed with 5 invasive, nonmetastatic, complex GI cancers (esophagus, stomach, pancreas, bile ducts, liver) from the Ohio Cancer Incidence Surveillance System during 2009 and 2018. To preserve patient privacy, we combined US census tracts into the smallest geographic areas that included a minimum number of surgery cases (n=11) using the Max-p-regions method and called these new areas "MaxTracts." Age-adjusted surgery rates were calculated for MaxTracts, and the Hot Spot analysis identified clusters of high and low surgery rates. US Census and CDC PLACES were used to compare neighborhood characteristics between the high- and low-surgery clusters.

RESULTS

This study included 33,091 individuals with complex GI cancers located in 1006 MaxTracts throughout Ohio. The proportion in each MaxTract receiving surgery ranged from 20.7% to 92.3% with a median (interquartile range) of 48.9% (42.4-56.3). Low-surgery clusters were mostly in urban cores and the Appalachian region, whereas high-surgery clusters were mostly in suburbs. Low-surgery clusters differed from high-surgery clusters in several ways, including higher rates of poverty (23% vs. 12%), fewer married households (40% vs. 50%), and more tobacco use (25% vs. 19%; all P <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This improved understanding of neighborhood-level variation in receipt of potentially curative surgery will guide future outreach and community-based interventions to reduce treatment disparities. Similar methods can be used to target other treatment phases and other cancers.

Colon cancer epidemiology, race and socioeconomic status: Comparing trends in counties served by an urban hospital in Newark, NJ with overall NJ-state and nation-wide patterns

PURPOSE

Disparities in colorectal cancer (CRC) trends are linked with socioeconomic status (SES) and race. To better understand the colon cancer trends at our medical center, this study characterizes the racial and socioeconomic profile of the population served by our center to identify modifiable risk factors amenable to interventions.

METHODS

Colon cancer data from our center as well as New Jersey (NJ) and United States (US) were obtained from National Cancer Database. Demographic data on race and SES for NJ counties were obtained from public databases that sourced data from the American Community Survey and the US census. We compared the odds of being diagnosed with early-onset and late-stage colon cancer (III or IV), respectively in NJ and US, across different racial groups. We also quantified the association between Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) and age-adjusted CRC mortality in NJ counties, with and without accounting for the racial composition of each county.

RESULTS

In 2015, our center recorded higher proportions of late-stage and early-onset colon cancer diagnoses compared to all hospitals in NJ and US. Trends for stage and patient age at diagnosis of colon cancer for NJ and the US (2010-2019) showed that Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander individuals had greater odds of being diagnosed with early-onset (age<50) and late-stage colon cancer (Stage III/IV) when compared to White population. NJ counties served by our center showed an overrepresentation of either Black or Hispanic-Latino populations and reported significant disadvantage in SES. For NJ counties, each 25 percentile increase in social vulnerability was associated with 1.04 times the rate of age-adjusted colorectal cancer death (95 % CI: 1.00-1.07).

CONCLUSION

Public data on race and SES of the target population can help identify areas of social disparities at the county-level to guide targeted interventions such as improving healthcare access and screening rates.

The association between sociodemographic, clinical, and potentially preventive therapies with oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate whether several potentially preventive therapies reduced the rate of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) in colorectal cancer patients and to assess the relationship of sociodemographic/clinical factors with OIPN diagnosis.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database combined with Medicare claims. Eligible patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer between 2007 and 2015, ≥ 66 years of age, and treated with oxaliplatin. Two definitions were used to denote diagnosis of OIPN based on diagnosis codes: OIPN 1 (specific definition, drug-induced polyneuropathy) and OIPN 2 (broader definition, additional codes for peripheral neuropathy). Cox regression was used to obtain hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the relative rate of OIPN within 2 years of oxaliplatin initiation.

RESULTS

There were 4792 subjects available for analysis. At 2 years, the unadjusted cumulative incidence of OIPN 1 was 13.1% and 27.1% for OIPN 2. For both outcomes, no therapies reduced the rate of OIPN diagnosis. The anticonvulsants gabapentin and oxcarbazepine/carbamazepine were associated with an increased rate of OIPN (both definitions) as were increasing cycles of oxaliplatin. Compared to younger patients, those 75-84 years of age experienced a 15% decreased rate of OIPN. For OIPN 2, prior peripheral neuropathy and moderate/severe liver disease were also associated with an increased hazard rate. For OIPN 1, state buy-in health insurance coverage was associated with a decreased hazard rate.

CONCLUSION

Additional studies are needed to identify preventive therapeutics for OIPN in cancer patients treated with oxaliplatin.

Adjuvant chemotherapy non-adherence, patient-centered communication, and patient-level factors in elderly breast and colon cancer patients

BACKGROUND

We examined patient-level factors (patient characteristics, disease and treatment factors, and patient experience), patient-centered communication (PCCM), and non-adherence to adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) guidelines among breast and colon cancer patients to inform AC adherence promotion and improve clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Descriptive statistics for patient-level factors, PCCM, and AC non-adherence (primary non-adherence, non-persistence at 3 and 6 months) were obtained. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate AC non-adherence after accounting for the identified patient-level factors.

RESULTS

The majority of the sample (n = 577) were White (87%), breast cancer patients (87%), and reported PCCM (provider communication score ≥ 90%, 73%, provider communication score = 100%, 58%). All three levels of AC nonadherence were significantly higher in breast cancer patients (69%, 81%, and 89% for primary non-adherence, and non-persistence at 3 and 6 months, respectively) than colon cancer patients (43%, 46%, and 62%, respectively). Male sex, survey assistance, and low/average ratings of a personal doctor, specialist, and healthcare were associated with lower PCCM. Older age, breast cancer diagnosis, and diagnosis group following 2007-2009 increased the likelihood of all three levels of AC non-adherence. Comorbidities and PCCM-90 were exclusively associated with non-persistence at 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant chemotherapy non-adherence varied by cancer diagnosis and treatment factors. The relationship between PCCM and AC non-adherence differed by level of PCCM, time period, and the presence of comorbidities. AC guideline adherence, communication, and value-concordant treatment should be assessed and compared simultaneously to improve our understanding of their interrelationships.

Investigation of Geographical Disparities: The Use of An Interpolation Method For Cancer Registry Data

The American Cancer Society estimated 1.9 million diagnosed cancer cases and 608,570 cancer deaths in 2021 in the US; for Oklahoma, they estimated 22,820 cases and 8,610 deaths. This project aimed to demonstrate a method to systematically describe cancer in an accurate and visually attractive, yet simple to make, interpolated map using ZIP Code level registry data, as it is the smallest area unit with high accuracy using inverse distance weighting. We describe a process of creating smoothed maps with an appropriate, well-described, simple, replicable method. These smoothed maps display low (cold) or high (hot) areas of incidence rates of: (a) all cancer combined, (b) colorectal cancer and lung cancer rates by gender, (c) female breast cancer, and (d) prostate cancer, by ZIP Codes for Oklahoma from 2013-2017. The methods we present in this paper provide an effective visualization to pinpoint low (cold) or high (hot) areas of cancer incidence.

The impact of race and socioeconomic status on stage IV colorectal cancer survival

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were to determine the impact of race and socioeconomics on survival in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer.

METHODS

A prospective database of stage IV colorectal cancer patients treated at a multi-hospital health system from 2015 to 2019 was retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis using log-rank Mantel-Cox test and Cox proportional hazard model were performed to determine the impact of race, socioeconomic factors, presentation, and treatment on overall survival.

RESULTS

4012 patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, of which 803 patients were stage IV. There were 677 (84.3%) White, and 108 (13.4%) Black patients. Black patients have worse 5-year overall survival than white patients (HR 1.43 (1.09-1.87)). Patients who received chemotherapy had significantly better survival than patients who did not receive chemotherapy (HR 0.58 (0.47-0.71)). Black patients have significantly lower rates of receiving chemotherapy as compared to white patients (61.1% vs 75.37%, p = 0.0018).

CONCLUSION

Patients with Stage IV colorectal cancer have worse survival if they are black, older age, and did not receive chemotherapy.

Health Equity and Colorectal Cancer Awareness: a Community Health Educator Initiative

Disparities in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality persist in rural and underserved communities. Our Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) activities are grounded in a bi-directional Community-to-Bench model in which the National Outreach Network Community Health Educator (NON CHE) Screen to Save (S2S) initiative was implemented. In this study, we assessed the impact of the NON CHE S2S in rural and underserved communities. Descriptive and comparative analyses were used to examine the role of the NON CHE S2S on CRC knowledge and CRC screening intent. Data included demographics, current CRC knowledge, awareness, and future CRC health plans. A multivariate linear regression was fit to survey scores for CRC knowledge. The NON CHE S2S engaged 441 participants with 170 surveys completed. The difference in participants' CRC knowledge before and after the NON CHE S2S intervention had an overall mean of 0.92 with a standard deviation of 2.56. At baseline, White participants had significantly higher CRC knowledge scores, correctly answering 1.94 (p = 0.007) more questions on average than Black participants. After the NON CHE S2S intervention, this difference was not statistically significant. Greater than 95% of participants agreed that the NON CHE S2S sessions impacted their intent to get screened for CRC. Equity of access to health information and the health care system can be achieved with precision public health strategies. The COE bi-directional Community-to-Bench model facilitated community connections through the NON CHE and increased awareness of CRC risk reduction, screening, treatment, and research. The NON CHE combined with S2S is a powerful tool to engage communities with the greatest health care needs and positively impact an individual's intent to "get screened" for CRC.

Expanding access to early phase trials: the CATCH-UP.2020 experience

BACKGROUND

Disparities in cancer outcomes persist for underserved populations; one important aspect of this is limited access to promising early phase clinical trials. To address this, the National Cancer Institute-funded Create Access to Targeted Cancer Therapy for Underserved Populations (CATCH-UP.2020) was created. We report the tools developed and accrual metrics of the initial year of CATCH-UP.2020 with a focus on racial, ethnic, geographic, and socioeconomically underserved populations.

METHODS

CATCH-UP.2020 is a P30 supplement awarded to 8 National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers with existing resources to rapidly open and accrue to Experimental Therapeutics Clinical Trials Network (ETCTN) trials with emphasis on engaging patients from underserved populations. Sites used patient-based, community-based, investigator-based, and program-based tools to meet specific program goals.

RESULTS

From September 2020 to August 2021, CATCH-UP.2020 sites opened 45 ETCTN trials. Weighted average trial activation time for the 7 sites reporting this was 107 days. In the initial year, sites enrolled 145 patients in CATCH-UP.2020 with 68 (46.9%) representing racial, ethnic, rural, and socioeconomically underserved populations using the broader definition of underserved encompassed in the grant charge. During the initial year of CATCH-UP.2020, a time impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, 15.8% (66 of 417) and 21.4% (31 of 145) of patients enrolled to ETCTN trials at network and at CATCH-UP sites, respectively, were from racial and ethnic minority groups, a more limited definition of underserved for which comparable data are available.

CONCLUSION

Targeted funding accelerated activation and accrual of early phase trials and expanded access to this therapeutic option for underserved populations.

Disparities in colorectal cancer time-to-treatment and survival time associated with racial and economic residential segregation surrounding the diagnostic hospital, Georgia 2010-2015

PURPOSE

To evaluate patient-level colorectal cancer outcomes in relation to residential income and racial segregation and composition of the neighborhood surrounding the diagnosing hospitals, and characterize presence of cancer-relevant diagnosis and treatment modalities that might contribute to these associations.

METHODS

We utilized Georgia state cancer registry data (2010-2015), matching diagnosis information to hospital technology provided by the American Hospital Association and spatial information to the US Census. We modeled time-to-treatment and survival time, using Cox proportional hazards models, stratified by segregation. Segregation was examined as residential economic and racial evenness (Atkinson index) and isolation (isolation index) and mean income at the Census tract level. To assess possible contributing factors, analysis of hospital diagnosis and treatment technologies in relation to segregation was conducted.

RESULTS

Average income of the Census tract and racial residential segregation of the diagnosing hospital's neighborhood was generally unassociated with time-to-treatment or survival time. Higher income evenness around the diagnosing hospital was associated with shorter time-to-treatment, with no association with time-to-death. Higher income isolation for the diagnosing hospital, conversely, was associated with longer times to treatment, but also longer survival times. Hospitals in regions with higher level of residential income segregation were less likely to have a particular diagnosing or treatment technologies, such as virtual colonoscopy and chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Hospital resources may be a function of their immediate economic environment, and this may have influence on cancer outcomes. Future work should evaluate patient outcomes in light of technologies or therapies utilized within particular economic environments.

Advanced stage presentation and its determinant factors among colorectal cancer patients in Amhara regional state Referral Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

Nowadays, the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been increasing in the world, particularly in developing nations. This could be related to the poor prognosis of the disease due to late presentation at diagnosis and poor treatment outcomes. In Ethiopia, studies related to the stage of colorectal cancer at diagnosis and its determinants are limited. Therefore, the study was intended to assess advanced stage presentation and its associated factors among colorectal cancer patients in northwest Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution-based retrospective study was conducted among 367 CRC patients at two oncologic centers (the University of Gondar and Felege Hiwot comprehensive specialized hospitals) from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020. Data were entered into EPi-data 4.2.0.0 and transferred to STATA version 14 statistical software for analysis. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. All variables with P-value < 0.2 during bi-variable analysis were considered for multivariable logistic regression. The level of statistical significance was declared at P-value <0.05.

RESULTS

The magnitude of advanced stage presentation of colorectal cancer was 83.1%. Being rural dwellers (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.6; 95% CI: 1.8,7.2), not medically insured (AOR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.9,7.8), patients delay (AOR = 6.5; 95% CI:3.2, 13.3), recurrence of the disease (AOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1,4.7), and no comorbidity illness (AOR = 4.4; 95% CI: 2.1, 9.1) were predictors of advanced stage presentation of CRC.

CONCLUSION

The current study revealed that the advanced-stage presentation of colorectal cancer patients was high. It is recommended that the community shall be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease using different media, giving more emphasis to the rural community, expanding health insurance, and educating patients about the recurrence chance of the disease. Moreover, expansion of colorectal treatment centers and screening of colorectal cancer should be given emphasis.

A Comparison of Area-Level Socioeconomic Status Indices in Colorectal Cancer Care

INTRODUCTION

There are multiple measures of area socioeconomic status (SES) and there is little evidence on the comparative performance of these measures. We hypothesized adding area SES measures improves model ability to predict guideline concordant care and overall survival compared to models with standard clinical and demographic data alone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included patients with colorectal cancer from 2006 to 2015 from the North Carolina Cancer Registry merged with insurance claims data. The primary area SES study variables were the Social Deprivation Index, Distressed Communities Index, Area Deprivation Index, and Social Vulnerability Index. We used multivariable logistic modeling and Cox proportional hazards modeling to assess the adjusted association of each indicator, with guideline concordant care and overall survival, respectively. Model performance of the SES measures was compared to a base model using likelihood ratio testing and area under the curve (AUC) assessments to compare SES indicator models with each other.

RESULTS

We found that the Area Deprivation Index, Social Vulnerability Index and Social Deprivation Index, but not Distressed Communities Index, were significantly associated with receiving guideline concordant care and significantly improved model fit over the base model on likelihood ratio testing. All models had similar AUCs. With respect to overall survival, we found that all indices were independently and significantly associated with survival and had significantly improved model fit over the base model on likelihood ratio testing. AUC analysis again showed all area SES measures had comparable performance for overall survival at 5 y.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis demonstrates the importance of including these measures in risk adjustment models. However, of the commonly available measures, no one measure stood out as superior to others.

Socioeconomic deprivation and survival outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer

Socioeconomic deprivation has been linked to detrimental healthcare outcomes. We sought to examine whether patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) from socioeconomically disadvantaged areas experience worse survival outcomes and how it interacts with other factors. In this population-based study, patients with CRC diagnosed between 2007 to 2015 in the SEER program were reviewed. Socioeconomic deprivation was measured using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) linked to patients' residence addresses. The effect of ADI on cancer-specific survival and overall survival was evaluated using survival analysis. The Inverse Probability of Weighted (IPW) method and multiple regression was performed to account for the confounding bias. Subgroup analyses were used to test interactions. Multiple mediation analysis was used to estimate the mediating effects. Overall, 266,620 eligible patients were included in further analyses. Compared with low ADI patients, high ADI patients had more unfavorable characteristics and worse cancer-specific (hazard ratio [HR] 1.14, 95% CI 1.12-1.16, P<.001) and overall survival (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.09-1.12, P<0.001). The results were similar after accounting for confounding factors using the IPW and multiple regression methods. Subgroup analyses revealed the relative robustness of ADI as a prognostic factor. They detected significant interactions between ADI and other covariates on cancer survival, such as age, race, insurance status, disease stage, and receipt of treatment. Multiple mediation analyses identified several factors mediating survival disparities, including anticancer therapy, insurance status, race, marital status, and age. This study suggested that high ADI CRC patients were associated with more unfavorable characteristics at presentation and lower cancer and noncancer survival after treatment than their low ADI counterparts. Multiple factors interacted and mediated these survival disparities associated with the ADI.

Influence of Race, Insurance, and Rurality on Equity of Breast Cancer Care

BACKGROUND

Considerable gaps in knowledge remain regarding the intersectionality between race, insurance status, rurality, and community-level socioeconomic status that contribute in concert to disparities in breast cancer care delivery.

METHODS

Women age 18-64 y old with either private, Medicaid, or no insurance coverage and a diagnosis of breast cancer from the North Carolina Central Cancer Registry (2010-2015) were identified and reviewed. Logistic regression models examined the impact of race, insurance status, rurality, and the Social Deprivation Index (SDI) on advanced stage disease at diagnosis (III, IV) and receipt of cancer directed surgery (CDS). Models tested two-way interactions between race, insurance status, rurality, and SDI.

RESULTS

Of the study population (n = 23,529), 14.6% were diagnosed with advanced stage disease (III, IV), and 97.1% of women with non-metastatic breast cancer (n = 22,438) received cancer directed surgery (CDS). Twenty percent of women were non-Hispanic Black (NHB), 3.0% Hispanic, 10.9% Medicaid insured, 5.9% uninsured, 20.0% of women resided in rural areas, and 20.0% resided in communities of the highest quartile SDI. NHB race, Medicaid or uninsured status, and residence in rural or socially deprived areas were associated with advanced stage breast cancer at diagnosis. NHB and Medicaid or uninsured women were significantly less likely to receive CDS. There were no statistically significant interactions found influencing stage at diagnosis or receipt of cancer directed surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In a heterogeneous population across the state of North Carolina, non-Hispanic Black race, Medicaid or uninsured status, and residence in rural or high social deprivation communities are independently associated with advanced stage breast cancer at diagnosis, while non-Hispanic Black race and Medicaid or uninsured status are associated with lower odds to receive cancer directed surgery.

Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Cancer Incidence Risk, Cancer Staging, and Survival of Patients with Colorectal Cancer under Universal Health Insurance Coverage in Taiwan

This study examined the impact of socioeconomic status on colorectal cancer risk, staging, and survival under the National Health Insurance (NHI) system in Taiwan. Monthly salary and education level were used as measures of socioeconomic status to observe the risk of colorectal cancer among individuals aged 40 years or above in 2006-2015 and survival outcomes of patients with colorectal cancer until the end of 2016. Data from 286,792 individuals were used in this study. Individuals with a monthly salary ≤Q1 were at a significantly lower incidence risk of colorectal cancer than those with a monthly salary >Q3 (HR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.74-0.85), while those with elementary or lower education were at a significantly higher risk than those with junior college, university, or higher education (HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.06-1.31). The results show that socioeconomic status had no significant impact on colorectal cancer stage at diagnosis. Although salary was not associated with their risk of mortality, patients with colorectal cancer who had elementary or lower education incurred a significantly higher risk of mortality than those who had junior college, university, or higher education (HR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.07-1.77). Education level is a significant determinant of the incidence risk and survival in patients with colorectal cancer, but only income significantly impacts incidence risk.

Spatial analysis of colorectal cancer outcomes and socioeconomic factors in Virginia

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) disparities vary by country and population group, but often have spatial features. This study of the United States state of Virginia assessed CRC outcomes, and identified demographic, socioeconomic and healthcare access contributors to CRC disparities.

METHODS

County- and city-level cross-sectional data for 2011-2015 CRC incidence, mortality, and mortality-incidence ratio (MIR) were analyzed for geographically determined clusters (hotspots and cold spots) and their correlates. Spatial regression examined predictors including proportion of African American (AA) residents, rural-urban status, socioeconomic (SES) index, CRC screening rate, and densities of primary care providers (PCP) and gastroenterologists. Stationarity, which assesses spatial equality, was examined with geographically weighted regression.

RESULTS

For incidence, one CRC hotspot and two cold spots were identified, including one large hotspot for MIR in southwest Virginia. In the spatial distribution of mortality, no clusters were found. Rurality and AA population were most associated with incidence. SES index, rurality, and PCP density were associated with spatial distribution of mortality. SES index and rurality were associated with MIR. Local coefficients indicated stronger associations of predictor variables in the southwestern region.

CONCLUSIONS

Rurality, low SES, and racial distribution were important predictors of CRC incidence, mortality, and MIR. Regions with concentrations of one or more factors of disparities face additional hurdles to improving CRC outcomes. A large cluster of high MIR in southwest Virginia region requires further investigation to improve early cancer detection and support survivorship. Spatial analysis can identify high-disparity populations and be used to inform targeted cancer control programming.

Neoadjuvant Therapy in Stage II/III Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Study in a Disparate Population and the Effect on Survival

BACKGROUND

Kentucky has one of the highest rectal cancer incidences in the United States. High poverty rates have led to poor insurance coverage and inadequate access to care. The treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer utilizes a multimodal regimen requiring regular access to expert care. The rate of receipt of neoadjuvant therapy in Kentucky is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the rate and factors associated with the receipt of neoadjuvant therapy for localized advanced rectal cancer in Kentucky and the effect on overall survival.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective database review.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted by utilizing the Kentucky Cancer Registry at an academic center.

PATIENTS

All patients diagnosed with stage II/III rectal adenocarcinoma from 2005 to 2015 in the Commonwealth of Kentucky were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes measured were the factors associated with nonreceipt of neoadjuvant therapy and overall survival.

RESULTS

Of 1896 patients, only 46.8% received neoadjuvant therapy. Factors associated with not receiving neoadjuvant therapy included older age, female sex, low education level, high poverty level, and treatment at nonacademic centers. Survival analysis demonstrated significantly improved survival in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy compared with other treatment regimens.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by the retrospective nature of the review and by unmeasured confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study was the first to evaluate the factors behind the low rates of neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer in Kentucky. Neoadjuvant therapy in this population is beneficial for survival; efforts should be made in policy and education with focus on older patients, female patients, and treatment at nonacademic centers. Centralization of rectal cancer care improves outcomes, but we must be aware of the effect it may have on disparate populations with poor access. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B596.

TERAPIA NEOADYUVANTE EN EL MANEJO DEL CNCER DE RECTO EN ESTADIO II / III UN ESTUDIO RETROSPECTIVO EN UNA POBLACIN DISPAR Y EL EFECTO EN LA SUPERVIVENCIA

ANTECEDENTES:El estado de Kentucky tiene una de las mayores incidencias de cáncer de recto en los EE. UU. Debido a una alta tasa de pobreza, el porcentaje de la población que cuenta con seguro de salud, es muy limitado, y por lo tanto el acceso a una atención de alto nivel es muy bajo. El tratamiento del cáncer de recto localmente avanzado, es multidisciplinario, lo que exige acceso y disponibilidad a un grupo experto. Se desconoce la tasa de pacientes que reciben terapia neoadyuvante en Kentucky.OBJETIVO:Establecer la tasa y los factores asociados con el uso de terapia neoadyuvante en el tratamiento del cáncer de recto localmente avanzado en Kentucky, y su efecto en la supervivencia global.DISEÑO:Revisión retrospectiva de una base de datos.ESCENARIO:Este estudio se llevó a cabo utilizando el Registro de Cáncer de Kentucky en un centro académico.PACIENTES:Se incluyen todos los pacientes diagnosticados con adenocarcinoma de recto, de la Mancomunidad (Commonwealth) de Kentucky, en estadio II / III entre 2005 y 2015.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Establecer los factores asociados con el hecho de no recibir terapia neoadyuvante; y establecer la supervivencia global.RESULTADOS:De 1896 pacientes evaluados, solo el 46,8% recibió terapia neoadyuvante. Los factores asociados, para no haber recibido terapia neoadyuvante fueron: la edad avanzada, sexo femenino, bajo nivel educativo, alto nivel de pobreza y tratamiento en centros no académicos. El análisis de la supervivencia mostró una supervivencia significativamente mejor en los pacientes que recibieron terapia neoadyuvante en comparación con otros esquemas de tratamiento.LIMITACIONES:Revisión retrospectiva, factores de confusión no medidos.CONCLUSIONES:Nuestro estudio ha sido el primero en evaluar los factores determinantes de las bajas tasas de terapia neoadyuvante para el tratamiento del cáncer de recto localmente avanzado en Kentucky. La terapia neoadyuvante mejora y favorece la supervivencia en esta población, por lo tanto se deben hacer esfuerzos en las políticas de salud, así como en educación, enfocados a los pacientes mayores, pacientes femeninas y tratamiento en centros no académicos. El centralizar la atención del cáncer de recto, mejora los resultados, pero debemos ser conscientes del efecto que puede tener en poblaciones desiguales económicamente, con acceso deficiente a la posibilidad de recibir atención de alto nivel. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B596.

Twenty years' experience of primary vaginal cancer treatment at one cancer centre: does residence status matter?

Objectives

To study the long-term results of the treatment of patients with vaginal cancer and to examine whether there are any differences in diagnostic and survival rates between urban and rural patients.

Methods

The data of 70 patients with primary vaginal cancer treated at NN Alexandrov National Cancer Centre of Belarus from 2000 to 2019 were included. The median age was 64 years (range = 56–75). Morphology in 91.4% (64/70) of the cases was squamous cell cancer, in 7.1% (5/70) it was adenocarcinoma and in 1.4% (1/70) it was adenosquamous carcinoma. In total, there were 31 patients from urban and 39 from rural areas. The groups were comparable in age (61 versus 67, p = 0.104), morphology (p = 0.188) and distribution of stages: stage I in 7 and 10 patients (22.6% and 25.6%, respectively; p = 0.999), stage II in 14 and 16 patients (45.1% and 41.0%, respectively; p = 0.810), stage III in 6 and 6 patients (19.4% and 15.4%, respectively; p = 0.754) and stage IV in 4 and 7 patients (12.9% and 18.0%, respectively; p = 0.744).

Results

The median follow-up time was 33 months (range = 1–220). A total of 42 women died: 28 from progression of vaginal cancer and 14 from other diseases. Overall survival (OS) was 31.9 ± 6.8%, median survival was 41 months (95% CI = 0.0–105.3). Disease-specific survival (DSS) for the entire group was 54.5 ± 6.8%; median was not reached. The overall survival rate of urban women was 44.8 ± 10.6% and for rural it was 22.5 ± 8.2% (p = 0.142); DSS was 57.6 ± 10.5% and 53.0 ± 8.4% (p = 0.448), respectively.

Conclusion

DSS rate was 54.0 ± 6.8% and the OS rate did not exceed 31.9 ± 6.8%. Rural residence was not associated with late stage at diagnosis or receipt of treatment.

Factors Explaining Socio-Economic Inequalities in Survival from Colon Cancer: A Causal Mediation Analysis

BACKGROUND

Socio-economic inequalities in colon cancer survival exist in high-income countries, but the reasons are unclear. We assessed the mediating effects of stage at diagnosis, comorbidities, and treatment (surgery and intravenous chemotherapy) on survival from colon cancer.

METHODS

We identified 2,203 people aged 15 to 79 years with first primary colon cancer diagnosed in Victoria, Australia, between 2008 and 2011. Colon cancer cases were identified through the Victorian Cancer Registry (VCR), and clinical information was obtained from hospital records. Deaths till December 31, 2016 (n = 807), were identified from Victorian and national death registries. Socio-economic disadvantage was based on residential address at diagnosis. For stage III disease, we decomposed its total effect into direct and indirect effects using interventional mediation analysis.

RESULTS

Socio-economic inequalities in colon cancer survival were not explained by stage and were greater for men than women. For men with stage III disease, there were 161 [95% confidence interval (CI), 67-256] additional deaths per 1,000 cases in the 5 years following diagnosis for the most disadvantaged compared with the least disadvantaged. The indirect effects through comorbidities and intravenous chemotherapy explained 6 (95% CI, -10-21) and 15 (95% CI, -14-44) per 1,000 of these additional deaths, respectively. Surgery did not explain the observed gap in survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Disadvantaged men have lower survival from stage III colon cancer that is only modestly explained by having comorbidities or not receiving chemotherapy after surgery.

IMPACT

Future studies should investigate the potential mediating role of factors occurring beyond the first year following diagnosis, such as compliance with surveillance for recurrence and supportive care services.

Factors associated with emergency-onset diagnosis, time to treatment and type of treatment in colorectal cancer patients in Norway

Background

International differences in survival among colorectal cancer (CRC) patients may partly be explained by differences in emergency presentations (EP), waiting times and access to treatment.

Methods

CRC patients registered in 2015–2016 at the Cancer Registry of Norway were linked with the Norwegian Patient Registry and Statistics Norway. Multivariable logistic regressions analysed the odds of an EP and access to surgery, radiotherapy and systemic anticancer treatment (SACT). Multivariable quantile regression analysed time from diagnosis to treatment.

Results

Of 8216 CRC patients 29.2% had an EP before diagnosis, of which 81.4% were admitted to hospital with a malignancy-related condition. Higher age, more advanced stage, more comorbidities and colon cancer were associated with increased odds of an EP (p < 0.001). One-year mortality was 87% higher among EP patients (HR=1.87, 95%CI:1.75–2.02). Being married or high income was associated with 30% reduced odds of an EP (p < 0.001). Older age was significantly associated with increased waiting time to treatment (p < 0.001). Region of residence was significantly associated with waiting time and access to treatment (p < 0.001). Male (OR = 1.30, 95%CI:1.03,1.64) or married (OR = 1.39, 95%CI:1.09,1.77) colon cancer patients had an increased odds of SACT. High income rectal cancer patients had an increased odds (OR = 1.48, 95%CI:1.03,2.13) of surgery.

Conclusion

Patients who were older, with advanced disease or more comorbidities were more likely to have an emergency-onset diagnosis and less likely to receive treatment. Income was not associated with waiting time or access to treatment among CRC patients, but was associated with the likelihood of surgery among rectal cancer patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08415-1.

Patient Factors Limit Colon Cancer Survival at Safety-Net Hospitals: A National Analysis

BACKGROUND

Safety-net hospitals serve a vital role in society by providing care for vulnerable populations. Existing data regarding oncologic outcomes of patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals are limited and variable. The objective of this study was to delineate disparities in treatment and outcomes for patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study identified 802,304 adult patients with colon adenocarcinoma from the National Cancer Database between 2004-2016. Patients were stratified according to safety-net burden of the treating hospital as previously described. Patient, tumor, facility, and treatment characteristics were compared between groups as were operative and short-term outcomes. Cox proportional hazards regression was utilized to compare overall survival between patients treated at high, medium, and low burden hospitals.

RESULTS

Patients treated at safety-net hospitals were demographically distinct and presented with more advanced disease. They were also less likely to receive surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, negative resection margins, adequate lymphadenectomy, or a minimally invasive operative approach. On multivariate analysis adjusting for patient and tumor characteristics, survival was inferior for patients at safety-net hospitals, even for those with stage 0 (in situ) disease.

CONCLUSION

This analysis revealed inferior survival for patients with colon cancer treated at safety-net hospitals, including those without invasive cancer. These findings suggest that unmeasured population differences may confound analyses and affect survival more than provider or treatment disparities.

Persistent Disparity: Socioeconomic Deprivation and Cancer Outcomes in Patients Treated in Clinical Trials

Patients with cancer living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas have worse cancer outcomes. The association between socioeconomic deprivation and outcomes among patients with cancer participating in clinical trials has not been systematically examined.

Management of colon cancer patients: A comprehensive analysis of the absence of multidisciplinary team meetings in two French departments

BACKGROUND

The care management of colorectal cancers has evolved, particularly since the implementation of multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTm). The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with the non-presentation of colon cancer patients in MDTm (no-MDTm) and to assess the association between no-MDTm and the diagnostic and therapeutic care management, in two areas in France, in 2010.

METHODS

Patients over 18 years diagnosed for invasive colon cancer in Gironde and Tarn during 2010 were included from the cancer registries of these two departments. We used five indicators to evaluate the care management of colon cancer patients (about diagnosis, treatment and selection of patients for chemotherapy).

RESULTS

No-MDTm patients were more likely to die early after diagnosis (OR=2.94, 95% CI=[1.52-5.66]). Elderly patients and those living in more disadvantaged areas were less often presented in MDTm (OR_≥85years=2.10, 95% CI=[1.06-4.18]; OR_EDIQ4-Q5=1.96, 95% CI=[1.23-3.14]). After adjusting for patient-related variables (age, comorbidities, deprivation) and tumor (stage at diagnosis), we found that thoracic CT scan was less often performed among no-MDTm patients (OR=0.40, 95% CI=[0.24-0.65]). There was no association between the absence of MDTm and the therapeutic care management indicators.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, therapeutic care management was not associated with the absence of MDTm but with patient and tumor characteristics, including age, comorbidities and level of deprivation, that influence the non-presentation in MDTm.

The Intersection of Rural Residence and Minority Race/Ethnicity in Cancer Disparities in the United States

One in every twenty-five persons in America is a racial/ethnic minority who lives in a rural area. Our objective was to summarize how racism and, subsequently, the social determinants of health disproportionately affect rural racial/ethnic minority populations, provide a review of the cancer disparities experienced by rural racial/ethnic minority groups, and recommend policy, research, and intervention approaches to reduce these disparities. We found that rural Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations experience greater poverty and lack of access to care, which expose them to greater risk of developing cancer and experiencing poorer cancer outcomes in treatment and ultimately survival. There is a critical need for additional research to understand the disparities experienced by all rural racial/ethnic minority populations. We propose that policies aim to increase access to care and healthcare resources for these communities. Further, that observational and interventional research should more effectively address the intersections of rurality and race/ethnicity through reduced structural and interpersonal biases in cancer care, increased data access, more research on newer cancer screening and treatment modalities, and continued intervention and implementation research to understand how evidence-based practices can most effectively reduce disparities among these populations.

Spatial Variation of Survival for Colorectal Cancer in Malaysia

A patient's survival may depend on several known and unknown factors and it may also vary spatially across a region. Socioeconomic status, accessibility to healthcare and other environmental factors are likely to contribute to survival rates. The aim of the study was to model the spatial variation in survival for colorectal cancer patients in Malaysia, accounting for individual and socioeconomic risk factors. We conducted a retrospective study of 4412 colorectal cancer (ICD-10, C18-C20) patients diagnosed from 2008 to 2013 to model survival in CRC patients. We used the data recorded in the database of the Malaysian National Cancer Patient Registry-Colorectal Cancer (NCPR-CRC). Spatial location was assigned based on the patients' central district location, which involves 144 administrative districts of Malaysia. We fitted a parametric proportional hazards model in which the spatially correlated frailties were modelled by a log-Gaussian stochastic process to analyse the spatially referenced survival data, which is also known as a spatial survival model. After controlling for individual and area level characteristics, our findings indicate wide spatial variation in colorectal cancer survival across Malaysia. Better healthcare provision and higher socioeconomic index in the districts where patients live decreased the risk of death from colorectal cancer, but these associations were not statistically significant. Reliable measurement of environmental factors is needed to provide good insight into the effects of potential risk factors for the disease. For example, a better metric is needed to measure socioeconomic status and accessibility to healthcare in the country. The findings provide new information that might be of use to the Ministry of Health in identifying populations with an increased risk of poor survival, and for planning and providing cancer control services.

Comparison of Urban-Rural Readmission Rates After Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Findings From a Privately Insured Population

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the 30-day readmission rate of a privately insured population diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) who had primary tumor resection in rural and urban communities.

METHODS

Claims data of people aged <65 with a diagnosis of CRC between 2012 and 2016 and enrolled in a private health plan administered by BlueCross BlueShield of Nebraska were analyzed. Readmission was defined as the number of discharged patients who were readmitted within 30 days, divided by all discharged patients. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the factors associated with readmission.

RESULTS

The urban population had a higher readmission rate (11%) than the rural population (8%). Although the adjusted odds ratio showed that there is no difference in readmission between rural and urban residents, patients with a Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) of >1 were more likely than those without CCI to be readmitted (OR 3.59, 1.41-9.11). Patients with open vs. laparoscopic surgery (OR 2.80, 1.39-5.63) and those with an obstructed or perforated colon vs. none (OR 7.17, 3.75-13.72) were more likely to be readmitted.

CONCLUSIONS

Readmission after CRC surgery occurs frequently. Interventions that target the identified risk factors should reduce readmission rates in this privately insured population.

Factors Explaining Socio-Economic Inequalities in Cancer Survival: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

There is strong and well-documented evidence that socio-economic inequality in cancer survival exists within and between countries, but the underlying causes of these differences are not well understood.

METHODS

We systematically searched the Ovid Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases up to 31 May 2020. Observational studies exploring pathways by which socio-economic position (SEP) might causally influence cancer survival were included.

RESULTS

We found 74 eligible articles published between 2005 and 2020. Cancer stage, other tumor characteristics, health-related lifestyle behaviors, co-morbidities and treatment were reported as key contributing factors, although the potential mediating effect of these factors varied across cancer sites. For common cancers such as breast and prostate cancer, stage of disease was generally cited as the primary explanatory factor, while co-morbid conditions and treatment were also reported to contribute to lower survival for more disadvantaged cases. In contrast, for colorectal cancer, most studies found that stage did not explain the observed differences in survival by SEP. For lung cancer, inequalities in survival appear to be partly explained by receipt of treatment and co-morbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies compared regression models with and without adjusting for potential mediators; this method has several limitations in the presence of multiple mediators that could result in biased estimates of mediating effects and invalid conclusions. It is therefore essential that future studies apply modern methods of causal mediation analysis to accurately estimate the contribution of potential explanatory factors for these inequalities, which may translate into effective interventions to improve survival for disadvantaged cancer patients.

Impact of hospital geographic remoteness on overall survival after colorectal cancer resection using state-wide administrative data

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to use administrative data (AD) linked to the Victorian death index (VDI) to report on overall long-term survival following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery, comparing regional to metropolitan hospitals.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study using prospectively gathered AD linked to VDI. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Outcomes were adjusted for potential confounders via multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

RESULTS

Total of 17 533 patients: 12 879 metropolitan patients, 3835 inner regional patients and 719 outer regional patients. Multivariable Cox regression, adjusted for the effects of age, ASA score, Charlson score, position of tumour, mode of access, admission type, lymph node metastases, distant metastases, return to theatre, length of stay, HDU admission and discharge destination showed no difference in OS comparing CRC resection patients from inner or outer regional hospitals to metropolitan ((HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.95-1.09, P = 0.59) and (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.85-1.11, P = 0.68) respectively).

CONCLUSION

This is the largest and most detailed study concerning OS after CRC resection involving Victorian public hospitals. There was no difference in OS following CRC resection when inner or outer regional hospitals were compared to metropolitan hospitals in Victoria. The study demonstrated the utility of AD with validated algorithms, linked to death data for reporting CRC survival outcomes.

Social determinants of colorectal cancer risk, stage, and survival: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Several social determinants of health have been examined in relation to colorectal cancer incidence, stage at diagnosis, and survival including income, education, neighborhood disadvantage, immigration status, social support, and social network. Colorectal cancer incidence rates are positively associated with income and other measures of socioeconomic status. In contrast, low socioeconomic status tends to be associated with poorer survival.

METHODS

The present review is based upon bibliographic searches in PubMed and CINAHL and relevant search terms. Articles published in English from 1970 through April 1, 2019 were identified using the following MeSH search terms and Boolean algebra commands: colorectal cancer AND (incidence OR stage OR mortality) AND (social determinants OR neighborhood disadvantage OR racial discrimination OR immigration OR social support).

RESULTS

This review indicates that poverty, lack of education, immigration status, lack of social support, and social isolation play important roles in colorectal cancer stage at diagnosis and survival.

CONCLUSIONS

To address social determinants of colorectal cancer, effective interventions are needed that account for the social contexts in which patients live.

Differences in cancer survival by remoteness of residence: an analysis of data from a population-based cancer registry

PURPOSE

Cancer survival is generally lower for rural compared with urban residents, but findings have been inconsistent. We aimed to assess inequalities in cancer survival by remoteness of residence in Victoria, Australia.

METHODS

Incident cancer cases diagnosed in 2001-2015 with 30 cancer types (n = 331,302) were identified through the Victorian Cancer Registry and followed to the end of 2015 through death registries. Five-year net survival was estimated using the Pohar-Perme method and differences assessed by excess mortality rate ratios (EMRRs) using Poisson regression, adjusting for sex, age and year of diagnosis. EMRRs adjusted for socio-economic disadvantage were also estimated.

RESULTS

People living outside major cities had lower survival for 11 cancers: esophagus, stomach, colorectum, liver, gallbladder/biliary tract, pancreas, lung, connective/soft tissue, ovary, prostate, kidney. No differences in survival were found for cancers of uterus, small intestine and mesothelioma. After adjusting for socio-economic disadvantage, the observed differences in survival decreased for most cancers and disappeared for colorectal cancer, but they remained largely unchanged for cancers of esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, lung, connective/soft tissue, ovary and kidney.

CONCLUSION

People with cancer residing outside major cities had lower survival from some cancers, which is partly due to the greater socio-economic disadvantage of rural residents.

Spatial access to primary care providers and colorectal cancer-specific survival in Cook County, Illinois

BACKGROUND

Spatial access to primary care has been associated with late-stage and fatal breast cancer, but less is known about its relation to outcomes of other screening-preventable cancers such as colorectal cancer. This population-based retrospective cohort study examined whether spatial access to primary care providers associates with colorectal cancer-specific survival.

METHODS

Approximately 26 600 incident colorectal cancers diagnosed between 2000 and 2008 in adults residing in Cook County, Illinois were identified through the state cancer registry and georeferenced to the census tract of residence at diagnosis. An enhanced two-step floating catchment area method measured tract-level access to primary care physicians (PCPs) in the year of diagnosis using practice locations obtained from the American Medical Association. Vital status and underlying cause of death were determined using the National Death Index. Fine-Gray proportional subdistribution hazard models analyzed the association between tract-level PCP access scores and colorectal cancer-specific survival after accounting for tract-level socioeconomic status, case demographics, tumor characteristics, and other factors.

RESULTS

Increased tract-level access to PCPs was associated with a lower risk of death from colorectal cancer (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI]) = 0.87 [0.79, 0.96], P = .008, highest vs lowest quintile), especially among persons diagnosed with regional-stage tumors (HR, 95% CI = 0.80 [0.69, 0.93], P = .004, highest vs lowest quintile).

CONCLUSIONS

Spatial access to primary care providers is a predictor of colorectal cancer-specific survival in Cook County, Illinois. Future research is needed to determine which areas within the cancer care continuum are most affected by spatial accessibility to primary care such as referral for screening, accessibility of screening and diagnostic testing, referral for treatment, and access to appropriate survivorship-related care.

Return on Investment of Free Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests in a Primarily Rural Uninsured or Underinsured Population in Northeast Texas

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the USA. Its economic impact is extensive, and preventive screening services are warranted to help prevent it.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to examine the return on investment, in terms of reduced costs attributed to cancer prevention, of a CRC screening outreach program providing education and screening in a primarily rural region targeting the uninsured and underinsured.

METHODS

The expenditures of the Northeast Texas CRC screening program were calculated for the years of 2016 and 2017. Prices ($US) were adjusted for inflation and converted to year 2017 values. The costs saved were calculated using the estimated costs of CRC care present in the literature.

RESULTS

For fiscal years 2016 and 2017, the program provided an average return of $US1.46-2.06 for every tax dollar spent. Estimated cost avoidance was $US165,080 per avoided case and estimated cost avoidance of $US245,601 among early-stage cancer cases detected, resulting in potential savings ranging from $US3,893,676 to $US4,837,923.

CONCLUSION

A CRC outreach program providing education and screening operating in less densely populated regions yields a positive return on investment.

Low Socioeconomic Status Is Associated with Worse Outcomes After Curative Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: Results from a Large, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Socioeconomic status (SES) has been associated with early mortality in cancer patients. However, the association between SES and outcome in colorectal cancer patients is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether SES is associated with short- and long-term outcome in patients undergoing curative surgery for colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative surgery in the region of Rotterdam for stage I-III colorectal cancer between January 2007 and July 2014 were included. Gross household income and survival status were obtained from a national registry provided by Statistics Netherlands Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek. Patients were assigned percentiles according to the national income distribution. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression were performed to assess the association of SES with 30-day postoperative complications, overall survival and cancer-specific survival, adjusted for known prognosticators.

RESULTS

For 965 of the 975 eligible patients (99%), gross household income could be retrieved. Patients with a lower SES more often had diabetes, more often underwent an open surgical procedure, and had more comorbidities. In addition, patients with a lower SES were less likely to receive (neo) adjuvant treatment. Lower SES was independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications (Odds ratio per percent increase 0.99, 95%CI 0.99-0.998, p = 0.004) and lower cancer-specific mortality (Hazard ratio per percent increase 0.99, 95%CI 0.98-0.99, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that lower SES is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications, and poor cancer-specific survival in patients undergoing surgery for stage I-III colorectal cancer after correcting for known prognosticators.

Impact of Primary Care Access on Mortality of Lung Cancer Patients in an Underserved Community

BACKGROUND

Lack of access to primary care physicians (PCPs) may be an important contributor to mortality differences attributed to race/ethnicity. This study examined the effects of primary care access on mortality of lung cancer patients in an underserved community.

METHODS

Medical records of all newly diagnosed patients with primary lung cancer from 2012 to 2016 at a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated center in Bronx, New York were reviewed. Demographic data, PCP status, and residence in primary care shortage areas (PCSAs) were collected. Survival data from time of first imaging to death or the end of follow-up on January 1, 2018 were recorded. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox hazards modeling.

RESULTS

Among 1062 patients, 874 (82%) were PCSA residents, 314 (30%) were Hispanic, and 445 (42%) were African American. PCSA residents were likely Hispanics (P<0.001), African Americans (P<0.001), of lower income (P<0.001), and had advanced disease at diagnosis (P=0.01). Patients without established PCPs had more comorbidities (P=0.04), more advanced disease (P<0.001), and less in-network cancer treatment (P<0.001). PCSA residence (P=0.03, hazard ratio [HR]=1.27) and no established PCP (P<0.001, HR=1.50) were associated with increased mortality. In multivariable modeling, lack of established PCP remained a predictor of increased mortality (P=0.02, HR=1.25).

DISCUSSION

Among newly diagnosed lung cancer patients, lack of established PCP is associated with increased mortality. Hispanics and African Americans increasingly resided in PCSAs, suggesting race/ethnicity mortality differences may be mediated by primary care shortage. Patients without PCPs had worse health outcomes. Effective health policy efforts to reduce mortality in lung cancer patients must include approaches to improve primary care access.

Investigating the Impact of Geographic Location on Colorectal Cancer Stage at Diagnosis: A National Study of the SEER Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with decreased mortality and potential avoidance of chemotherapy. CRC screening rates are lower in rural communities and patient outcomes are poorer. This study examines the extent to which United States' rural residents present at a more advanced stage of CRC compared to nonrural residents.

METHODS

Using the 2010-2014 Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Incidence data, 132,277 patients with CRC were stratified using their county of residence and urban influence codes into 5 categories (metro, adjacent micropolitan, nonadjacent micropolitan, small rural, and remote small rural). Logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between late stage at diagnosis and county-level characteristics including level of rurality, persistent poverty, low education and low employment, and patient characteristics.

RESULTS

In the adjusted analysis the rate of stage 4 CRC at diagnosis differed across geographic classification, with patients living in remote small rural counties having the highest rate of stage 4 disease (range: 19.2% in nonadjacent micropolitan counties to 22.7% in remote small rural counties). Other factors, such as patient characteristics, insurance status, and regional practice variation were also significantly associated with late-stage CRC diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Geographic residence is associated with the rate of stage 4 disease at presentation. Additional patient factors are associated with stage 4 CRC disease at diagnosis. Cancer outcomes are worse for rural patients, and late stage at diagnosis may partially account for this disparity. These differences have persisted over time and suggest areas for further research, patient engagement, and education.

Low colorectal cancer survival in the Mountain West state of Nevada: A population-based analysis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third greatest cancer burden in the United States. The remarkably diverse Mountain West state of Nevada has uncharacteristically high CRC mortality compared to other Western states. We aimed to study the determinants of the CRC excess burden by using data from the Nevada Central Cancer Registry from 2003-2013. Five-year cause-specific age-adjusted survival from colorectal cancer was calculated and stratified by sex, race/ethnicity and region of Nevada. Cox Proportional Hazards regression modelling was used to study the impact of demographic, social, and clinical factors on CRC survival in Nevada, assessing follow-up as accurately as possible. The extent to which differences in survival can be explained by receipt of stage-appropriate treatment was also assessed. 12,413 CRC cases from 2003-2013 in Nevada were analyzed. Five-year CRC survival was low: 56.0% (95% CI: 54.6-57.5) among males and 59.5% (95% CI: 58.0-61.1) among females; significantly lower than national 5-year survival of 65.1% and 66.5%, respectively. Low survival was driven by populous Southern Nevada; after adjustment for all covariates, Southern Nevadans were at 17% higher risk of death than their counterparts in Northwestern Nevada (HR:1.17; 95% CI:1.08-1.27). Many patients did not receive stage-appropriate treatment, although this only partly explained the poor survival, uniformly low for every race/ethnicity in Nevada. The observed disparity for this one state within a single nation merits public health attention; regardless of the state or region of residence, all Americans deserve equal opportunity for optimum health outcomes in the face of a cancer diagnosis. The current study provides baseline information critical to clinicians, public health professionals, and all relevant stakeholders as they attempt to discern why Nevada's outcomes are vastly divergent from its neighboring Western states and make plans for remediation.

Rural-urban residence and cancer survival in high-income countries: A systematic review

There is some evidence that place of residence is associated with cancer survival, but the findings are inconsistent, and the underlying mechanisms by which residential location might affect survival are not well understood. We conducted a systematic review of observational studies investigating the association of rural versus urban residence with cancer survival in high-income countries. We searched the Ovid Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) databases up to May 31, 2016. Forty-five studies published between 1984 and 2016 were included. We extracted unadjusted and adjusted relative risk estimates with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Most studies reported worse survival for cancer patients living in rural areas than those in urban regions. The most consistent evidence, observed across several studies, was for colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer. Of the included studies, 18 did not account for socio-economic position. Lower survival for more disadvantaged patients is well documented; therefore, it could be beneficial for future research to take socio-economic factors into consideration when assessing rural/urban differences in cancer survival. Some studies cited differential stage at diagnosis and treatment modalities as major contributing factors to regional inequalities in cancer survival. Further research is needed to disentangle the mediating effects of these factors, which may help to establish effective interventions to improve survival for patients living outside major cities.

The impact of travel time on colorectal cancer stage at diagnosis in a privately insured population

BACKGROUND

Rural residents are less likely to receive screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) than urban residents. However, the mechanisms underlying this disparity, especially among people aged 50-64 years old with private health insurance, are not well understood. We examined the impact of travel time on stage at CRC diagnosis.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska. Members of this private insurance company aged 50-64 years, diagnosed with CRC during the period 2012-2016, and continuously enrolled in the insurance plan for at least 6 months prior to CRC diagnosis, were selected for this study. Using Google Maps, we estimated patients' travel time from their home ZIP code to the ZIP code of their colonoscopy provider. Using logistic regression, we analyzed the association between stage at CRC diagnosis, travel time, use of preventive services (i.e., check-ups or counseling to prevent or detect illness at an early stage) and patient characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 307 subjects met the inclusion criteria. People who had not used preventive services 6 months prior to CRC diagnosis had 2.80 (95% CI, 1.00-7.90) times the odds of metastatic CRC compared to those who had used these services. No statistically significant association was found between travel time and metastatic CRC diagnosis (P = 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-1.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The fact that 13% of the study population presented with metastatic CRC suggests some noncompliance with preventive services such as screening guidelines. To increase screening uptake and reduce metastatic cases, employers should offer incentives for their employees to make use of preventive services such as CRC screening.

Comparison of the demographic characteristics of pediatric and adult colorectal cancer patients: a national inpatient sample based analysis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer in children is rare, but characterized by late presentation, unfavorable histology and poor prognosis. Risk factors for colorectal cancer in children overlap with those for adults with greater influence of hereditary syndromes. The epidemiology of colon cancer in children is poorly understood; the aim of this study was to characterize and compare the demographics and relevant clinical characteristics of pediatric and adult colon cancer, using a national inpatient sample.

METHODS

The AHRQ online resource HCUPnet/KID database was queried for children, under the age of 18 admitted with ICD 9 CM diagnoses relating to colorectal cancer, at the time of discharge. For comparison, the corresponding diagnoses in adult patients were queried for each successive year. Patient demographics including residential type and median income by zip-code, tumor localization; if recorded, and mean hospital charges were all accrued and analyzed.

RESULTS

Inpatient admissions for pediatric colorectal cancer were more likely male (54%), in the 15-17 years age bracket (57%). They were significantly more likely from Southwestern regions of the Unites States, and were significantly more likely from residential zip-codes identified as at or below the lowest income quartile than adult CRC patients or pediatric patients as a whole. Hospital charges have more than quadrupled over the time period studied (1997-2012).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric colorectal cancer is the most common primary gastrointestinal malignancy in children. Better understanding associated risk factors including those associated with gender, geographic region and social economic status may contribute to future prevention or early detection strategies.