Transgender and non-binary peoples experiences of cervical cancer screening: A scoping review

AIM(S)

To synthesise the literature about transgender and non-binary people's experiences of cervical cancer screening and identify ways to improve screening.

BACKGROUND

Transgender people often face barriers to accessing health services including cervical screening, where transgender people have a lower uptake than cisgender women.

DESIGN

A scoping review was undertaken following the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Following database searching of Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and CINHAL, 23 papers published between 2008 and 2003 were included. Papers were included if they shared trans and non-binary people's experiences of cervical screening and were written in English. There were no date or geographical data restrictions due to the paucity of research.

RESULTS

Transgender people experience barriers to cervical screening including gender dysphoria, a history of sexual trauma, and mistrust in health professionals or health services, which can result in having negative experiences of screening or avoiding screening. Health professionals can help to create a positive experience by informing themselves about best practices for trans+ health.

CONCLUSION

Changes are required to improve transgender people's experiences and uptake of cervical screening. Improving medical education about trans health and updating health systems would help to combat issues discussed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE

Having an understanding of the reasons why accessing health services can be more difficult for transgender people will help health professionals to provide appropriate care for transgender patients. This paper details this in the context of cervical cancer screening and can be applied to other areas of healthcare.

REPORTING METHOD

We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines and used the PRISMA-ScR reporting method. No Patient or Public Contribution.

Breast and cervical cancer screenings across gender identity: results from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System before and during the COVID-19 pandemic

PURPOSE

Although national medical organizations often neglect to include trans and gender diverse (TGD) people in their breast and cervical cancer screening recommendations, the World Profession Association of Transgender Health recommends that TGD people who are at risk for these cancers follow existing guidelines for cisgender women. Despite WPATH's recommendations, TGD people are less likely to get screened in large part due to discrimination. The COVID-19 pandemic has limited access to cancer screenings among cisgender people, but it is unknown how this has impacted TGD people.

METHODS

Using national survey data from the Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System (BRFSS), we examined differences in cervical and breast cancer screening noncompliance across gender identity at two time points: before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS

Screening noncompliance increased during the COVID-19 pandemic among cisgender and TGD people (e.g., transgender men, gender non-conforming people). Compared to cisgender women, transgender men and gender non-conforming respondents had higher odds of breast cancer screening noncompliance before and during COVID-19. Transgender men had lower odds of cervical cancer screening noncompliance than cisgender women before COVID-19, but higher odds during the pandemic. Gender non-conforming respondents also had lower odds of cervical cancer screening noncompliance during COVID-19 compared to cisgender women.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening noncompliance for breast and cervical cancer was more common among TGD people than cisgender women; while these disparities existed before the COVID-19 pandemic, they were exacerbated during the pandemic. Future work should move beyond descriptive statistics and elucidate underlying causes to inform interventions.

Understanding mechanisms of racial disparities in breast cancer: an assessment of screening and regular care in the Carolina Breast Cancer Study

PURPOSE

Screening history influences stage at detection, but regular preventive care may also influence breast tumor diagnostic characteristics. Few studies have evaluated healthcare utilization (both screening and primary care) in racially diverse screening-eligible populations.

METHODS

This analysis included 2,058 women age 45-74 (49% Black) from the Carolina Breast Cancer Study, a population-based cohort of women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2008 and 2013. Screening history (threshold 0.5 mammograms per year) and pre-diagnostic healthcare utilization (i.e. regular care, based on responses to "During the past ten years, who did you usually see when you were sick or needed advice about your health?") were assessed as binary exposures. The relationship between healthcare utilization and tumor characteristics were evaluated overall and race-stratified.

RESULTS

Among those lacking screening, Black participants had larger tumors (5 + cm) (frequency 19.6% vs 11.5%, relative frequency difference (RFD) = 8.1%, 95% CI 2.8-13.5), but race differences were attenuated among screening-adherent participants (10.2% vs 7.0%, RFD = 3.2%, 0.2-6.2). Similar trends were observed for tumor stage and mode of detection (mammogram vs lump). Among all participants, those lacking both screening and regular care had larger tumors (21% vs 8%, RR = 2.51, 1.76-3.56) and advanced (3B +) stage (19% vs 6%, RR = 3.15, 2.15-4.63) compared to the referent category (screening-adherent and regular care). Under-use of regular care and screening was more prevalent in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas of North Carolina.

CONCLUSIONS

Access to regular care is an important safeguard for earlier detection. Our data suggest that health equity interventions should prioritize both primary care and screening.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening intervention

PURPOSE

The effectiveness of the Colorectal Cancer (CRC) screening program is assessed based on the reduction in CRC mortality and incidence rates over time. To accurately estimate the long-term impact, it is advisable to monitor additional indicators such as age and stage-specific incidence rates. Our objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of the National CRC Screening Program in Turkey and analyze its influence on disease stage at diagnosis and survival rates.

METHODS

The National CRC Screening Program was considered an intervention and the distribution of local, regional, and distant diseases, and survival estimates were assessed before and after the intervention to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

RESULTS

518 patients were included in the study. At the time of diagnosis, localized, regional, and distant disease in pre-intervention were 31.3%, 42.9%, 25.8%, while post-intervention were 42.8%, 33.3%, 23.9%, respectively (p = 0.020). The relative effectiveness of the intervention in males, females, and 50-70 ages were calculated as 1.2[95% CI 0.95-1.73], 1.5[95% CI 1.04-2.18], and 1.6[95% CI 1.21-2.28] in localized disease, 0.8[95% CI 0.67-1.18], 0.6[95% CI 0.43-0.90], and 0.6[95% CI 0.46-0.81] in regional diseases, 0.8[95% CI 0.57-1.20], 1.1[95% CI 0.66-1.84], and 1.0[95% CI 0.70-1.57] in distant disease, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A noticeable shift in the disease stage at the time of diagnosis was observed; however, this shift varied among gender and age groups. To effectively evaluate the impact of a cancer screening program on reducing the incidence and mortality rates of the disease, it is essential to monitor and analyze these indicators alongside 5-10-year survival estimates and stage changes at the time of diagnosis.

Digital Interventions to Support Lung Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Lung cancer screening (LCS) with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can reduce lung cancer mortality, but its adoption in the U.S. has been limited. Digital interventions have the potential to improve uptake of LCS. This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence for the effectiveness of digital interventions in promoting LCS.

METHODS

A systematic search of three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Medline) was conducted to identify studies published between January 2014 and May 2023. Studies were reviewed and abstracted between February 2023 and July 2023. Outcomes related to knowledge, decision-making and screening were measured. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools.

RESULTS

Of 1,979 screened articles, 30 studies were included in this review. Digital interventions evaluated included decision aids (n=20), electronic health record (EHR)-based interventions (n=7), social media campaigns and mobile applications (n=3). Decision aids were the most commonly studied digital interventions, with most studies showing improved knowledge (13/13) and reduced decisional conflict (7/9) but most did not show a substantial change in screening use. Fewer studies tested clinician-facing or multi-level interventions.

DISCUSSION

Digital interventions, particularly decision aids, have shown promise in improving knowledge and the quality of decision-making around LCS. However, few interventions have been shown to substantially alter screening behavior and few clinician-facing or multi-level interventions have been rigorously tested. Further research is needed to develop effective tools for engaging patients in LCS, to compare the efficacy of different interventions, and evaluate implementation strategies in diverse healthcare settings.

Socioeconomic and cultural factors associated with pap smear screening among French women living in Réunion Island

BACKGROUND

Réunion Island is a French overseas territory located in the southern Indian Ocean, with a challenging socioeconomic and multicultural context. Compared to mainland France, Réunion has an overincidence and overmortality of cervical cancer. In order to investigate these two issues, it is important to evaluate the barriers and potential levers to Pap smear screening among female inhabitants of the island. We aimed to identify the specific socio-demographic factors, cultural factors, and living conditions associated with Pap smear screening in Réunion, with a view to increasing uptake.

METHODS

We conducted a Knowledge Attitude Behavior and Practices (KABP) survey on cervical cancer screening practices among women aged between 25 and 65 years old living in Réunion Island, selected using random digit dialing sampling. Data were collected using Computer Assistant Telephone Interviews. Weighted chi-squared tests and Student's t-tests were used to compare women who had up-to-date Pap smear screening with women who did not. Weighted logistic models were used to identify the factors associated with not having up-to-date screening.

RESULTS

A total of 1000 women were included in the study. Of these, 88.1% had a Pap smear test during the previous three years. Factors independently associated with not being up to date were as follows: aged over 55 (AOR 2.3 [1.2-4.3]), no children (AOR 2.5 [1.4-4.3]), having free universal health coverage (AOR 1.7 [1.1-2.7]), an income per unit consumption lower than 1500€ per month (AOR 2.0 [1.1-3.7]), low health literacy (AOR 2.7 [1.7-4.1]), not consulting a general practitioner in the prior 12 months (AOR 3.6 [2.0-6.5]), and a BMI > 30 (AOR 2.6 [1.5-4.4]).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first large-scale survey focusing on recommended Pap smear screening uptake in Réunion Island. Although self-reported screening incidence was higher than in mainland France, national screening policies must take into account the island's diverse social and cultural characteristics (e.g., an ageing population, low health literacy), while implementing actions to fight against poverty and increase general access to healthcare.

Frequency of Guideline-Discordant Prostate Cancer Screening Among Older Males

This cross-sectional study examines the association of life expectancy and prostate cancer screening practices among older males using data from a national survey.

Up-to-Date Colonoscopy Use in Asian and Hispanic Subgroups in New York City, 2003-2016

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer screening uptake in the United States overall has increased, but racial/ethnic disparities persist and data on colonoscopy uptake by racial/ethnic subgroups are lacking. We sought to better characterize these trends and to identify predictors of colonoscopy uptake, particularly among Asian and Hispanic subgroups.

STUDY

We used data from the New York City Community Health Survey to generate estimates of up-to-date colonoscopy use in Asian and Hispanic subgroups across 6 time periods spanning 2003-2016. For each subgroup, we calculated the percent change in colonoscopy uptake over the study period and the difference in uptake compared to non-Hispanic Whites in 2015-2016. We also used multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of colonoscopy uptake.

RESULTS

All racial and ethnic subgroups with reliable estimates saw a net increase in colonoscopy uptake between 2003 and 2016. In 2015-2016, compared with non-Hispanic Whites, Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, and Central/South Americans had higher colonoscopy uptake, whereas Chinese, Asian Indians, and Mexicans had lower uptake. On multivariable analysis, age, marital status, insurance status, primary care provider, receipt of flu vaccine, frequency of exercise, and smoking status were the most consistent predictors of colonoscopy uptake (≥4 time periods).

CONCLUSIONS

We found significant variation in colonoscopy uptake among Asian and Hispanic subgroups. We also identified numerous demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related predictors of colonoscopy uptake. These findings highlight the importance of examining health disparities through the lens of disaggregated racial/ethnic subgroups and have the potential to inform future public health interventions.

Analysis of Breast Cancer Screening Results and Influencing Factors of Breast Cancer in Guangdong Province from 2017 to 2021

BACKGROUNDS

Breast cancer screening plays an important role in the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the screening results and explore the influencing factors of breast cancer detection rate in Guangdong.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,024,960 women aged 35-64 in Guangdong Province during 2017-2021. The data about breast cancer screening information were collected from the Guangdong maternal and child health information system. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to explain demographic characteristics and results of breast cancer screening. The generalized linear regression model was applied to analyze the related influencing factors of breast cancer detection rate.

RESULTS

The estimated detection rate of breast cancer in Guangdong Province is 70.32/105, with an early diagnosis rate of 82.06%. After adjusting covariates, those women with older age (45-55 [OR (95% CI) 2.174 (1.872, 2.526)], 55-65 [OR (95% CI) 2.162 (1.760, 2.657)]), education for high school ([OR (95% CI) 1.491 (1.254, 1.773)]) and older age at first birth ([OR (95% CI) 1.632 (1.445, 1.844)]) were more likely to have higher detection rate of breast cancer. No history of surgery or biopsy ([OR (95% CI) 0.527 (0.387, 0.718)]), no history of breast cancer check ([OR (95% CI) 0.873 (0.774, 0.985)]) and no family history of breast cancer ([OR (95% CI) 0.255 (0.151, 0.432)]) women were more likely to screen negative for breast cancer (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The detection rate of breast cancer in screening showed an increasing trend year by year in Guangdong Province. Older age, education for high school and older age at first birth were risk factors for breast cancer detection rate, while no surgery or biopsy history, no family history of breast cancer and no history of breast cancer check were protective factors.

Global Cervical Cancer Incidence by Histological Subtype and Implications for Screening Methods

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is a major global health concern, disproportionately affecting women in developing countries. Cervical cancer has two primary subtypes, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC), each with distinct characteristics and screening effectiveness. In this study, we aimed to estimate the global incidence of cervical cancer according to histological subtype to inform prevention strategies.

METHODS

Using data from population-based cancer registries, we computed the rates of SCC, AC, and other specified histology among all cervical cancer cases by country and by 5-year age group. Proportions were subsequently applied to the estimated number of cervical cancer cases from the Global Cancer Observatory 2020. Age-standardized incidence rates were calculated.

RESULTS

SCC accounted for 82.72% of global cervical cancer cases, with AC contributing 12.18%. The highest SCC incidence was in Sub-Saharan Africa (29.79 per 100,000 population). The AC incidence was highest in South-Eastern Asia (3.67 per 100,000 population). Age-specific trends showed SCC peaking at approximately age 55 years and AC plateauing after age 45 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided a comprehensive estimate of cervical cancer incidence by histological subtype. SCC remained the dominant subtype globally, whereas the incidence of AC varied across regions. These findings highlighted the need for tailored prevention strategies, especially testing for human papillomavirus to detect AC in high burden areas.

Association between prediagnostic prostate-specific antigen and prostate cancer probability in Black and non-Hispanic White men

BACKGROUND

Although Black men are more likely than non-Hispanic White men to develop and die from prostate cancer, limited data exist to guide prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening protocols in Black men. This study investigated whether the risk for prostate cancer was higher than expected among self-identified Black than White veterans based on prebiopsy PSA level.

METHODS

Multivariable logistic regression models were estimated to predict the likelihood of prostate cancer diagnosis on first biopsy for 75,295 Black and 207,658 White male veterans. Self-identified race, age at first PSA test, prebiopsy PSA, age at first biopsy, smoking status, statin use, and socioeconomic factors were used as predictors. The adjusted predicted probabilities of cancer detection on first prostate biopsy from the logistic models at different PSA levels were calculated.

RESULTS

After controlling for PSA and other covariates, Black veterans were 50% more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis on their first prostate biopsy than White veterans (odds ratio [OR], 1.50; 95% CI, 1.47-1.53; p < .001). At a PSA level of 4.0 ng/mL, the probability of prostate cancer for a Black man was 49% compared with 39% for a White man. This model indicated that Black veterans with a PSA of 4.0 ng/mL have an equivalent risk of prostate cancer as White veterans with a PSA of 13.4 ng/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that, at any given PSA level, Black men are more likely to harbor prostate cancer than White men. Prospective studies are needed to better evaluate risks and benefits of PSA screening in Black men and other high-risk populations.

Breast Cancer Stage at Diagnosis in a Nigerian Hospital: Trend over a Decade

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer outcomes are poor in Nigeria, partly due to late-stage diagnosis. To assess the impact of past and present interventions, a review of an institutional data base was performed to determine the trend with respect to stage at diagnosis over a decade.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of an institutional data base was performed over a decade. The review period was divided into segments (2013-2015, 2016-2018 and 2019-2022). The latter period (2019-2022), corresponds to a time of more intense community interventions aimed at promoting early diagnosis and treatment around the locality of the teaching hospital. The stage at diagnosis within these periods were compared. The relationship between stage and sociodemographic variables (age, religion, marital status, menopausal status, and level of education) was assessed.

RESULTS

There were 910 patients, 144 within the first period (2013-2015), 318 in the second (2016-2018) and 454 in the third period (2019-2022). The majority presented with stage 3 disease (73.8%). There was a significant decline in the proportion of metastatic cases and a concomitant increase in early cases in the latter part of the review. The proportion of metastatic cases reduced from 23.6% (2013-2015), to 15.7% (2016-2018) and 9.3% (2019-2022) (p=0.001). Level of education was significantly associated with stage (p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study shows a trend towards downstaging of breast cancer in our locality. This trend corresponds to the period of more intense community interventions, justifying the need to further interrogate the direct impact of each of the interventions. This will provide a firm basis for sustaining or improving on current efforts to achieve more robust gains.

Cervical screening among LGBTQ people: how affirming services may aid in achieving cervical cancer elimination targets

To reach cervical cancer elimination targets it is necessary to increase screening rates among underserved populations such as LGBTQ communities. This paper examines rates of attendance and associated factors of cervical screening in LGBTQ communities. Data from 2,424 people aged 25 to 74 years and assigned female at birth were drawn from an online national Australian survey of LGBTQ adults. Over half of the sample had accessed cervical screening in the past 2 years. Using a multivariable logistic regression analysis, significant associations were found between screening, sociodemographic traits and health-care access. Trans men were least likely to access cervical screening, while bisexual, pansexual and queer identified participants were most likely to access screening. People who lived outside inner-suburban areas and those who had a disability were less likely to have had screening. Evidence of trusting relationships with a general practitioner (having a regular GP and GP's knowledge of the individual's LGBTQ identity) increased the likelihood that participants had screened, as did recent access to a medical service that was LGBTQ-inclusive or catered specifically to LGBTQ communities. The findings suggest the importance of training health providers, as well as targeted public health messaging for increasing uptake of cervical screening among LGBTQ people.

Learning from the universal, proactive outreach of the Brazilian Community Health Worker model: impact of a Community Health and Wellbeing Worker initiative on vaccination, cancer screening and NHS health check uptake in a deprived community in the UK

BACKGROUND

Delays in preventative service uptake are increasing in the UK. Universal, comprehensive monthly outreach by Community Health and Wellbeing Workers (CHW), who are integrated at the GP practice and local authority, offer a promising alternative to general public health campaigns as it personalises health promotion and prevention of disease holistically at the household level. We sought to test the ability of this model, which is based on the Brazilian Family Health Strategy, to increase prevention uptake in the UK.

METHODS

Analysis of primary care patient records for 662 households that were allocated to five CHWWs from July 2021. Primary outcome was the Composite Referral Completion Indicator (CRCI), a measure of how many health promotion activities were received by members of a household relative to the ones that they were eligible for during the period July 2021-April 2022. The CRCI was compared between the intervention group (those who had received at least one visit) and the control group (allocated households that were yet to receive a visit). A secondary outcome was the number of GP visits in the intervention and control groups during the study period and compared to a year prior.

RESULTS

Intervention and control groups were largely comparable in terms of household occupancy and service eligibilities. A total of 2251 patients in 662 corresponding households were allocated to 5 CHWs and 160 households had received at least one visit during the intervention period. The remaining households were included in the control group. Overall service uptake was 40% higher in the intervention group compared to control group (CRCI: 0.21 ± 0.15 and 0.15 ± 0.19 respectively). Likelihood of immunisation uptake specifically was 47% higher and cancer screening and NHS Health Checks was 82% higher. The average number of GP consultations per household decreased by 7.4% in the intervention group over the first 10 months of the pilot compared to the 10 months preceding its start, compared with a 0.6% decrease in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the short study period these are promising findings in this deprived, traditionally hard to reach community and demonstrates potential for the Brazilian community health worker model to be impactful in the UK. Further analysis is needed to examine if this approach can reduce health inequalities and increase cost effectiveness of health promotion approaches.

A Multilevel Primary Care Intervention to Improve Follow-Up of Overdue Abnormal Cancer Screening Test Results: A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Realizing the benefits of cancer screening requires testing of eligible individuals and processes to ensure follow-up of abnormal results.

Objective

To test interventions to improve timely follow-up of overdue abnormal breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer screening results.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Pragmatic, cluster randomized clinical trial conducted at 44 primary care practices within 3 health networks in the US enrolling patients with at least 1 abnormal cancer screening test result not yet followed up between August 24, 2020, and December 13, 2021.

Intervention

Automated algorithms developed using data from electronic health records (EHRs) recommended follow-up actions and times for abnormal screening results. Primary care practices were randomized in a 1:1:1:1 ratio to (1) usual care, (2) EHR reminders, (3) EHR reminders and outreach (a patient letter was sent at week 2 and a phone call at week 4), or (4) EHR reminders, outreach, and navigation (a patient letter was sent at week 2 and a navigator outreach phone call at week 4). Patients, physicians, and practices were unblinded to treatment assignment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was completion of recommended follow-up within 120 days of study enrollment. The secondary outcomes included completion of recommended follow-up within 240 days of enrollment and completion of recommended follow-up within 120 days and 240 days for specific cancer types and levels of risk.

Results

Among 11 980 patients (median age, 60 years [IQR, 52-69 years]; 64.8% were women; 83.3% were White; and 15.4% were insured through Medicaid) with an abnormal cancer screening test result for colorectal cancer (8245 patients [69%]), cervical cancer (2596 patients [22%]), breast cancer (1005 patients [8%]), or lung cancer (134 patients [1%]) and abnormal test results categorized as low risk (6082 patients [51%]), medium risk (3712 patients [31%]), or high risk (2186 patients [18%]), the adjusted proportion who completed recommended follow-up within 120 days was 31.4% in the EHR reminders, outreach, and navigation group (n = 3455), 31.0% in the EHR reminders and outreach group (n = 2569), 22.7% in the EHR reminders group (n = 3254), and 22.9% in the usual care group (n = 2702) (adjusted absolute difference for comparison of EHR reminders, outreach, and navigation group vs usual care, 8.5% [95% CI, 4.8%-12.0%], P < .001). The secondary outcomes showed similar results for completion of recommended follow-up within 240 days and by subgroups for cancer type and level of risk for the abnormal screening result.

Conclusions and Relevance

A multilevel primary care intervention that included EHR reminders and patient outreach with or without patient navigation improved timely follow-up of overdue abnormal cancer screening test results for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03979495.

A rapid review of COVID-19's global impact on breast cancer screening participation rates and volumes from January to December 2020

COVID-19 has strained population breast mammography screening programs that aim to diagnose and treat breast cancers earlier. As the pandemic has affected countries differently, we aimed to quantify changes in breast screening volume and uptake during the first year of COVID-19 . We systematically searched Medline, the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 database, and governmental databases. Studies covering January 2020 to March 2022 were included. We extracted and analyzed data regarding study methodology, screening volume, and uptake. To assess for risk of bias, we used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool. Twenty-six cross-sectional descriptive studies (focusing on 13 countries/nations) were included out of 935 independent records. Reductions in screening volume and uptake rates were observed among eight countries. Changes in screening participation volume in five nations with national population-based screening ranged from -13 to -31%. Among two countries with limited population-based programs, the decline ranged from -61 to -41%. Within the USA, population participation volumes varied ranging from +18 to -39%, with suggestion of differences by insurance status (HMO, Medicare, and low-income programs). Almost all studies had high risk of bias due to insufficient statistical analysis and confounding factors. The extent of COVID-19-induced reduction in breast screening participation volume differed by region and data suggested potential differences by healthcare setting (e.g., national health insurance vs. private healthcare). Recovery efforts should monitor access to screening and early diagnosis to determine whether prevention services need strengthening to increase the coverage of disadvantaged groups and reduce disparities.

Methods for Using Race and Ethnicity in Prediction Models for Lung Cancer Screening Eligibility

Importance

Using race and ethnicity in clinical prediction models can reduce or inadvertently increase racial and ethnic disparities in medical decisions.

Objective

To compare eligibility for lung cancer screening in a contemporary representative US population by refitting the life-years gained from screening-computed tomography (LYFS-CT) model to exclude race and ethnicity vs a counterfactual eligibility approach that recalculates life expectancy for racial and ethnic minority individuals using the same covariates but substitutes White race and uses the higher predicted life expectancy, ensuring that historically underserved groups are not penalized.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The 2 submodels composing LYFS-CT NoRace were refit and externally validated without race and ethnicity: the lung cancer death submodel in participants of a large clinical trial (recruited 1993-2001; followed up until December 31, 2009) who ever smoked (n = 39 180) and the all-cause mortality submodel in the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 1997-2001 participants aged 40 to 80 years who ever smoked (n = 74 842, followed up until December 31, 2006). Screening eligibility was examined in NHIS 2015-2018 participants aged 50 to 80 years who ever smoked. Data were analyzed from June 2021 to September 2022.

Exposure

Including and removing race and ethnicity (African American, Asian American, Hispanic American, White) in each LYFS-CT submodel.

Main Outcomes and Measures

By race and ethnicity: calibration of the LYFS-CT NoRace model and the counterfactual approach (ratio of expected to observed [E/O] outcomes), US individuals eligible for screening, predicted days of life gained from screening by LYFS-CT.

Results

The NHIS 2015-2018 included 25 601 individuals aged 50 to 80 years who ever smoked (2769 African American, 649 Asian American, 1855 Hispanic American, and 20 328 White individuals). Removing race and ethnicity from the submodels underestimated lung cancer death risk (expected/observed [E/O], 0.72; 95% CI, 0.52-1.00) and all-cause mortality (E/O, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.86-0.94) in African American individuals. It also overestimated mortality in Hispanic American (E/O, 1.08, 95% CI, 1.00-1.16) and Asian American individuals (E/O, 1.14, 95% CI, 1.01-1.30). Consequently, the LYFS-CT NoRace model increased Hispanic American and Asian American eligibility by 108% and 73%, respectively, while reducing African American eligibility by 39%. Using LYFS-CT with the counterfactual all-cause mortality model better maintained calibration across groups and increased African American eligibility by 13% without reducing eligibility for Hispanic American and Asian American individuals.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, removing race and ethnicity miscalibrated LYFS-CT submodels and substantially reduced African American eligibility for lung cancer screening. Under counterfactual eligibility, no one became ineligible, and African American eligibility increased, demonstrating the potential for maintaining model accuracy while reducing disparities.

Racial disparities in the screening mammography continuum within a heterogeneous health care system

BACKGROUND

Decreased mammography drives breast cancer disparities. Black women have lower rates of mammography completion than White women, and this contributes to disparities in outcomes. Points of disparity along the continuum for screening mammography remain underresearched.

METHODS

The authors compared mammography referrals for Black and White women aged 40-74 years at a heterogeneous academic medical center. Completion of steps of the screening mammography continuum was compared between Black and White women within two age cohorts: 40-49 and 50-74 years. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between race and mammogram completion.

RESULTS

Among 26,476 women, 3090 (12%) were Black, and 23,386 (88%) were White. Among Black women aged 50-74 years who were due for mammography, 40% had referrals, 39% were scheduled, and 21% completed mammography; the corresponding values for White women were 42%, 41%, and 27%, respectively. Similar differences in referral outcomes were noted for women aged 40-49 years, although Black women had lower rates of provider-initiated referrals (9% vs. 13%). Adjusted analyses for those aged 40-49 and 50-74 years demonstrated an association between Black race and lower rates of mammography completion (odds ratio [OR] for 40-49 years, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57-0.95; p = .02; OR for 50-74 years, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.74-0.98; p = .02). In multivariable analyses, noncommercial insurance and higher comorbidity were associated with lower rates of mammography. Provider-initiated referral was positively correlated to mammogram completion.

CONCLUSIONS

Black race was associated with 15%-26% lower mammography completion (adjusted). Both groups experienced the highest attrition after scheduling mammograms, although attrition was more precipitous for Black women. These findings have implications for future interventions, including increasing provider-initiated referrals and decreasing barriers to attending scheduled mammograms.

Knowledge, willingness, uptake and barriers of cervical cancer screening services among Chinese adult females: a national cross-sectional survey based on a large e-commerce platform

BACKGROUND

Improving the coverage rate of cervical cancer screening is a challenge mission for cervical cancer elimination. This study attempted to assess the knowledge, willingness, and uptake of cervical cancer screening services among Chinese females and determined associated factors.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional online survey conducted in China from March to April 2022. Information on demographic characteristics, knowledge, willingness, and uptake of cervical cancer screening was collected through a large e-commerce platform. Women aged 18-65 were included in the analysis. Logistic regression analysis was employed to detect the possible factors associated with knowledge, willingness, and screening participation.

RESULTS

A total of 4518 women (37.83 ± 9.14 years) were included in the final analysis, of whom 87.16% (n = 3938) lived in urban areas. About 93.40% (n = 4220) of the respondents reported hearing of cervical cancer screening. The median score of knowledge about cervical cancer was 16 out of 26. Over 84% (n = 3799) of the respondents were willing to receive regular cervical cancer screening. Nearly 40% (n = 1785) had never received cervical cancer screening. Among the screened women, 21.26% (n = 581), 35.24% (n = 1151), and 42.37% (n = 1158) were screened through a national cervical cancer screening program, employee physical examination, and self-paid physical examination, respectively. Knowledge was positively associated with willingness and screening participation. Age, marital status, occupation, monthly household income, and HPV vaccination history could influence screening participation (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Though women had high-level awareness and strong participation willingness in cervical cancer screening, the overall screening coverage among Chinese women was still low. Besides, the knowledge about cervical cancer was still limited. Comprehensive health education should be enhanced by utilizing social media platforms and medical workers. It is also important to promote national free cervical cancer screening with high-performance screening methods.

Cervical Cancer Screening: A Review

Importance

Each year in the US, approximately 100 000 people are treated for cervical precancer, 14 000 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 4000 die of cervical cancer.

Observations

Essentially all cervical cancers worldwide are caused by persistent infections with one of 13 carcinogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68. HPV vaccination at ages 9 through 12 years will likely prevent more than 90% of cervical precancers and cancers. In people with a cervix aged 21 through 65 years, cervical cancer is prevented by screening for and treating cervical precancer, defined as high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions of the cervix. High-grade lesions can progress to cervical cancer if not treated. Cervicovaginal HPV testing is 90% sensitive for detecting precancer. In the general population, the risk of precancer is less than 0.15% over 5 years following a negative HPV test result. Among people with a positive HPV test result, a combination of HPV genotyping and cervical cytology (Papanicolaou testing) can identify the risk of precancer. For people with current precancer risks of less than 4%, repeat HPV testing is recommended in 1, 3, or 5 years depending on 5-year precancer risk. For people with current precancer risks of 4% through 24%, such as those with low-grade cytology test results (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance [ASC-US] or low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [LSIL]) and a positive HPV test of unknown duration, colposcopy is recommended. For patients with precancer risks of less than 25% (eg, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 [CIN1] or histologic LSIL), treatment-related adverse effects, including possible association with preterm labor, can be reduced by repeating colposcopy to monitor for precancer and avoiding excisional treatment. For patients with current precancer risks of 25% through 59% (eg, high-grade cytology results of ASC cannot exclude high-grade lesion [ASC-H] or high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [HSIL] with positive HPV test results), management consists of colposcopy with biopsy or excisional treatment. For those with current precancer risks of 60% or more, such as patients with HPV-16-positive HSIL, proceeding directly to excisional treatment is preferred, but performing a colposcopy first to confirm the need for excisional treatment is acceptable. Clinical decision support tools can facilitate correct management.

Conclusions and Relevance

Approximately 100 000 people are treated for cervical precancer each year in the US to prevent cervical cancer. People with a cervix should be screened with HPV testing, and if HPV-positive, genotyping and cytology testing should be performed to assess the risk of cervical precancer and determine the need for colposcopy or treatment. HPV vaccination in adolescence will likely prevent more than 90% of cervical precancers and cancers.

Environmental and psychosocial predictors of cervical cancer screening among women in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, North Central, Nigeria

Cervical cancer (CC) is the second leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality among Nigerian women. Although screening is a cost-effective strategy for reducing its burden, uptake remains sub-optimal. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 514 sexually active women aged ≥25 years in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria using a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Mean age of respondents was 38.4±11.6years. 246(46.9%) had good knowledge of CC screening while 268(51.2%) had poor knowledge. Religion (aOR:1.8 [95% CI: 1.1 - 3.1]), location (aOR:1.2 [95% CI: 1.2 - 3.4) and number of children (aOR:2.3 [95% CI: 1.3 - 3.9]) were predictors for screening. Poor access routes to health facilities (aOR:0.5 [95% CI: 0.2 - 0.9]), high cost of screening (aOR:0.4 [95% CI: 0.2 - 0.9]), unaware of screening centers (aOR:0.4 [95% CI: 0.2 - 0.9]) and long waiting hours (aOR:0.5 [95% CI: 0.2 - 0.9) were identified environmental predictors. Fear of positive diagnosis/stigma (aOR:0.3 [95% CI: 0.1 - 0.9]), unacceptable touch (aOR:0.2 [95% CI: 0.1 - 0.8), deficiency in awareness programs (aOR:0.3 [95% CI: 0.2 - 0.7]), and not aware of appropriate screening age (aOR:0.1 [95% CI: 0.1 - 0.4]) were identified psychosocial predictors. This study highlights the need to intensify enlightenment programs, subsidize screening services, and encourage community screening.

Implementation research: including breast examinations in a cervical cancer screening programme, Rwanda

Objective

To evaluate whether integrating breast and cervical cancer screening in Rwanda's Women's Cancer Early Detection Program led to early breast cancer diagnoses in asymptomatic women.

Methods

Launched in three districts in 2018-2019, the early detection programme offered clinical breast examination screening for all women receiving cervical cancer screening, and diagnostic breast examination for women with breast cancer symptoms. Women with abnormal breast examinations were referred to district hospitals and then to referral hospitals if needed. We examined how often clinics were held, patient volumes and number of referrals. We also examined intervals between referrals and visits to the next care level and, among women diagnosed with cancer, their initial reasons for seeking care.

Findings

Health centres held clinics > 68% of the weeks. Overall, 9763 women received cervical cancer screening and clinical breast examination and 7616 received breast examination alone. Of 585 women referred from health centres, 436 (74.5%) visited the district hospital after a median of 9 days (interquartile range, IQR: 3-19). Of 200 women referred to referral hospitals, 179 (89.5%) attended after a median of 11 days (IQR: 4-18). Of 29 women diagnosed with breast cancer, 19 were ≥ 50 years and 23 had stage III or stage IV disease. All women with breast cancer whose reasons for seeking care were known (23 women) had experienced breast cancer symptoms.

Conclusion

In the short-term, integrating clinical breast examination with cervical cancer screening was not associated with detection of early-stage breast cancer among asymptomatic women. Priority should be given to encouraging women to seek timely care for symptoms.

Does Health Literacy Affect Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates?

This study aims to determine the relationship between adult colorectal cancer screening behaviors and health literacy levels. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the relationship between adult colorectal cancer screening behaviors and health literacy levels. Of the participants, only a small proportion had undergone this screening (9.3%). Having an intestinal disease (OR = 23) and having a relative with colorectal cancer (OR = 8) had the highest effect on colorectal screening. There were significant differences between the colorectal screening groups concerning most THLS-32 subgroup scores, including the THLS-32 total score. Health literacy affects colorectal cancer screening rates. Primary care workers, especially community health nurses, are in an ideal position to increase health literacy and thereby increase cancer screening rates.

Cancer Screening after the Adoption of Paid-Sick-Leave Mandates

BACKGROUND

By the end of 2022, nearly 20 million workers in the United States have gained paid-sick-leave coverage from mandates that require employers to provide benefits to qualified workers, including paid time off for the use of preventive services. Although the lack of paid-sick-leave coverage may hinder access to preventive care, current evidence is insufficient to draw meaningful conclusions about its relationship to cancer screening.

METHODS

We examined the association between paid-sick-leave mandates and screening for breast and colorectal cancers by comparing changes in 12- and 24-month rates of colorectal-cancer screening and mammography between workers residing in metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) that have been affected by paid-sick-leave mandates (exposed MSAs) and workers residing in unexposed MSAs. The comparisons were conducted with the use of administrative medical-claims data for approximately 2 million private-sector employees from 2012 through 2019.

RESULTS

Paid-sick-leave mandates were present in 61 MSAs in our sample. Screening rates were similar in the exposed and unexposed MSAs before mandate adoption. In the adjusted analysis, cancer-screening rates were higher among workers residing in exposed MSAs than among those in unexposed MSAs by 1.31 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28 to 2.34) for 12-month colorectal cancer screening, 1.56 percentage points (95% CI, 0.33 to 2.79) for 24-month colorectal cancer screening, 1.22 percentage points (95% CI, -0.20 to 2.64) for 12-month mammography, and 2.07 percentage points (95% CI, 0.15 to 3.99) for 24-month mammography.

CONCLUSIONS

In a sample of private-sector workers in the United States, cancer-screening rates were higher among those residing in MSAs exposed to paid-sick-leave mandates than among those residing in unexposed MSAs. Our results suggest that a lack of paid-sick-leave coverage presents a barrier to cancer screening. (Funded by the National Cancer Institute.).

Disparities in Cancer Screening in Sexual and Gender Minority Populations: A Secondary Analysis of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data

OBJECTIVES

To describe cancer screening characteristics and better understand individual-, environmental-, and organizational-level barriers of sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations. .

SAMPLE & SETTING

This study was conducted using a combined sample from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) national dataset from 2014 and 2016.

METHODS & VARIABLES

Chi-square tests for independence and logistic regression analysis tests were performed to determine whether relationships existed between SGM status and demographics.

RESULTS

Black respondents or those who reported their race as other, were female, had some college or technical school or more, and had healthcare coverage were less likely to present for cancer screening. SGM respondents who were in good or better health; were unmarried; were aged 18-44 years or 45-55 years; or were Asian, Native American, or Hawaiian, or reported their race as other, had higher odds of screening for cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Disparities in cancer screening among SGM populations are not well documented. These findings will inform structured education and preventative interventions to improve screening participation among SGM populations.

Finding Common Barriers and Facilitators for Cervical Cancer Screening in Sexual and Gender Diverse People: An Integrative Review

BACKGROUND

Sexual and gender diverse (SGD) people have lower rates of cervical cancer screening than cisgender, heterosexual people, putting them at greater risk for disease. Few, if any, studies have examined facilitators and barriers to cervical cancer screening common to all subgroups of SGD people with a cervix.

METHODS

An integrative review regarding cervical cancer screening by SGD people was conducted using Whittemore and Knafl's framework. The National Institutes of Health's Sexual and Gender Minorities Health Disparities Research Framework was used to interpret the findings. An electronic database search identified 17 peer-reviewed articles for inclusion.

RESULTS

Quantitative and qualitative studies and reviews took various approaches. Barriers common to all subgroups exist at the personal, interpersonal, community, and societal levels, including lack of insurance, lack of primary care provider, poor provider communication, discrimination, and insufficient provider education.

CONCLUSION

Identification of common barriers and facilitators can be used to enhance educational curricula and intervention development to increase cervical cancer screening among SGD people.

Providing Free Mammography Screening to Uninsured Muslim Women in South Florida

Despite studies indicating that Muslim women are less likely to meet recommended breast cancer screening guidelines, outreach specific to this population has been minimal. This article details a partnership between a mobile mammography center and a mosque, aimed at increasing mammography screening for uninsured Muslim women in South Florida.

Effect of Colonoscopy Screening on Risks of Colorectal Cancer and Related Death

BACKGROUND

Although colonoscopy is widely used as a screening test to detect colorectal cancer, its effect on the risks of colorectal cancer and related death is unclear.

METHODS

We performed a pragmatic, randomized trial involving presumptively healthy men and women 55 to 64 years of age drawn from population registries in Poland, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands between 2009 and 2014. The participants were randomly assigned in a 1:2 ratio either to receive an invitation to undergo a single screening colonoscopy (the invited group) or to receive no invitation or screening (the usual-care group). The primary end points were the risks of colorectal cancer and related death, and the secondary end point was death from any cause.

RESULTS

Follow-up data were available for 84,585 participants in Poland, Norway, and Sweden - 28,220 in the invited group, 11,843 of whom (42.0%) underwent screening, and 56,365 in the usual-care group. A total of 15 participants had major bleeding after polyp removal. No perforations or screening-related deaths occurred within 30 days after colonoscopy. During a median follow-up of 10 years, 259 cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed in the invited group as compared with 622 cases in the usual-care group. In intention-to-screen analyses, the risk of colorectal cancer at 10 years was 0.98% in the invited group and 1.20% in the usual-care group, a risk reduction of 18% (risk ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70 to 0.93). The risk of death from colorectal cancer was 0.28% in the invited group and 0.31% in the usual-care group (risk ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.64 to 1.16). The number needed to invite to undergo screening to prevent one case of colorectal cancer was 455 (95% CI, 270 to 1429). The risk of death from any cause was 11.03% in the invited group and 11.04% in the usual-care group (risk ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized trial, the risk of colorectal cancer at 10 years was lower among participants who were invited to undergo screening colonoscopy than among those who were assigned to no screening. (Funded by the Research Council of Norway and others; NordICC ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00883792.).

Comparison of prostate cancer detection rates in patients undergoing MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy with two different software-based systems

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted prostate biopsy is a routinely used diagnostic tool for prostate cancer (PCa) detection. However, a clear superiority of the optimal approach for software-based MRI processing during biopsy procedures is still unanswered. To investigate the impact of robotic approach and software-based image processing (rigid vs. elastic) during MRI/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) fusion prostate biopsy (FBx) on overall and clinically significant (cs) PCa detection.

METHODS

The study relied on the instructional retrospective biopsy data collected data between September 2013 and August 2017. Overall, 241 men with at least one suspicious lesion (PI-RADS ≥ 3) on multiparametric MRI underwent FBx. The study protocol contains a systematic 12-core sextant biopsy plus 2 cores per targeted lesion. One experienced urologist performed 1048 targeted biopsy cores; 467 (45%) cores were obtained using rigid processing, while the remaining 581 (55%) cores relied on elastic image processing. CsPCa was defined as International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade ≥ 2. The effect of rigid versus elastic FBx on overall and csPCa detection rates was determined. Propensity score weighting and multivariable regression models were used to account for potential biases inherent to the retrospective study design.

RESULTS

In multivariable regression analyses, age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and PIRADS ≥ 3 lesion were related to higher odds of finding csPCa. Elastic software-based image processing was independently associated with a higher overall PCa (odds ratio [OR] = 3.6 [2.2-6.1], p < 0.001) and csPCa (OR = 4.8 [2.6-8.8], p < 0.001) detection, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to existing literature, our results suggest that the robotic-driven software registration with elastic fusion might have a substantial effect on PCa detection.

Effects of the 2012 and 2018 US preventive services task force prostate cancer screening guidelines on pathologic outcomes after prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

In May 2018, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended prostate cancer (PCa) screening for ages 55-69 be an individual decision. This changed from the USPSTF's May 2012 recommendation against screening for all ages. The effects of the 2012 and 2018 updates on pathologic outcomes after prostatectomy are unclear.

METHODS

This study included 647 patients with PCa who underwent prostatectomy at our institution from 2005 to 2018. Patient groups were those diagnosed before the 2012 update (n = 179), between 2012 and 2018 updates (n = 417), and after the 2018 update (n = 51). We analyzed changes in the age of diagnosis, pathologic Gleason grade group (pGS), pathologic stage, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and favorable/unfavorable pathology. Multivariable logistic regression adjusting for pre-biopsy covariables (age, prostate-specific antigen [PSA], African American race, family history) assessed impacts of 2012 and 2018 updates on pGS and pathologic stage. A p  < 0.05 was statistically significant.

RESULTS

Median age increased from 60 to 63 (p = 0.001) between 2012 and 2018 updates and to 64 after the 2018 update. A significant decrease in pGS1, pGS2, pT2, and favorable pathology (p < 0.001), and a significant increase in pGS3, pGS4, pGS5, pT3a, and unfavorable pathology (p < 0.001) was detected between 2012 and 2018 updates. There was no significant change in pT3b or LVI between 2012 and 2018 updates. On multivariable regression, diagnosis between 2012 and 2018 updates was significantly associated with pGS4 or pGS5 and pT3a (p < 0.001). Diagnosis after the 2018 update was significantly associated with pT3a (p = 0.005). Odds of pGS4 or pGS5 were 3.2× higher (p < 0.001) if diagnosed between 2012 and 2018 updates, and 2.3× higher (p = 0.051) if after the 2018 update. Odds of pT3a were 2.4× higher (p < 0.001) if diagnosed between 2012 and 2018 updates and 2.9× higher (p = 0.005) if after the 2018 update.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2012 USPSTF guidelines negatively impacted pathologic outcomes after prostatectomy. Patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2018 updates had increased frequency of higher-risk PCa and lower frequency of favorable disease. In addition, data after the 2018 update demonstrate a continued negative impact on postprostatectomy pathology. Thus, further investigation of the long-term effects of the 2018 USPSTF update is warranted.

Communities' perceptions towards cervical cancer and its screening in Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia: A qualitative study

Background

Cervical cancer is a malignant neoplasm from cells originating in the cervix uteri. Any woman who is sexually active is at risk of getting HPV. Women in sub-Saharan Africa region have higher chance of developing the disease. There are nearly 26 million Ethiopian women who are over the age of 15 and believed to be at risk of getting HPV. Regrettably, Ethiopian women typically present for cervical cancer care at a late stage in the disease, where treatment is most ineffective.

Objectives

To explore communities’ perceptions of cervical cancer and screening among women in Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A qualitative research using focused group discussions and in-depth interviews was used to explore communities’ perceptions of cervical cancer and screening among women in Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia from March 2018-November 2019. The study participants were men, women and communities who were residents of the study settings and were not health professionals. All focused group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews were transcribed and entered into Microsoft Word and thematic content analysis was done.

Results

A total of fifty-nine participants participated in both FGD (three with men and six with women) and in-depth interviews (IDIs). Most participants have not heard about cervical cancer but know cancer in general. Participants mentioned that the disease usually relates to many births and unprotected sexual intercourse but none mentioned HPV infection. Most of the participants perceive that cervical cancer is incurable and assume that it could be prevented but they think they are not vulnerable to the disease and screening is not necessary.

Conclusion

This study indicates that rural communities in the zone had limited knowledge about cervical cancer and even less about risk factors, screening, treatment and prevention. There is a great need for cancer education and prevention in Ethiopia.

Lung Cancer Screening by Race and Ethnicity in an Integrated Health System in Hawaii

Importance

Racial and ethnic differences in lung cancer screening (LCS) completion and follow-up may be associated with lung cancer incidence and mortality rates among high-risk populations. Aggregation of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander racial and ethnic groups may mask the true underlying disparities in screening uptake and diagnostic follow-up, creating barriers for targeted, preventive health care.

Objective

To examine racial and ethnic differences in LCS completion and follow-up rates in a multiethnic population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study was conducted at a health maintenance organization in Hawaii. LCS program participants were identified using electronic medical records from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2019. Study eligibility requirements included being aged 55 to 79 years, a 30 pack-year smoking history, a current smoker or having quit within the past 15 years, at least 5 years past any lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, and cancer free. Data analysis was performed from June 2019 to October 2020.

Exposure

Eligible for LCS.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Screening rates were analyzed by self-reported race and ethnicity and completion of a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) test. Diagnostic follow-up results were based on the Lung Imaging Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS) staging system.

Results

A total of 1030 eligible LCS program members had an order placed; their mean (SD) age was 65.5 (5.8) years, and 633 (61%) were men. The largest racial and ethnic groups were non-Hispanic White (381 participants [37.0%]), Native Hawaiian or part Native Hawaiian (186 participants [18.1%]), and Japanese (146 participants [14.2%]). Men and Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, and non-Hispanic White individuals had a higher proportion of screen orders for LDCT compared with women and individuals of the other racial and ethnic groups. The overall LCS completion rate was 81% (838 participants). There was a 14% to 15% screening completion rate gap among groups. Asian individuals had the highest screening completion rate (266 participants [86%]) followed by Native Hawaiian (149 participants [80%]) and non-Hispanic White individuals (305 participants [80%]), Pacific Islander (50 participants [79%]) individuals, and individuals of other racial and ethnic groups (68 participants [77%]). Within Asian subgroups, Korean (31 participants [94%]) and Japanese (129 participants [88%]) individuals had the highest completion rates followed by Chinese individuals (28 participants [82%]) and Filipino individuals (78 participants [79%]). Of the 54 participants with Lung-RADS stage 3 disease, 93% (50 participants) completed a 6-month surveillance LDCT test; of 37 individuals with Lung-RADS stage 4 disease, 35 (97%) were followed-up for additional procedures.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found racial and ethnic disparities in LCS completion rates after disaggregation of Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian individuals and their subgroups. These findings suggest that future research is needed to understand factors that may be associated with LCS completion and follow-up behaviors among these racial and ethnic groups.

Assessment of US Preventive Services Task Force Guideline-Concordant Cervical Cancer Screening Rates and Reasons for Underscreening by Age, Race and Ethnicity, Sexual Orientation, Rurality, and Insurance, 2005 to 2019

IMPORTANCE

Cervical cancer screening rates are suboptimal in the US. Population-based assessment of reasons for not receiving screening is needed, particularly among women from historically underserved demographic groups.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate changes in US Preventive Service Task Force guideline-concordant cervical cancer screening over time and assess the reasons women do not receive up-to-date screening by sociodemographic factors.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This pooled population-based cross-sectional study used data from the US National Health Interview Survey from 2005 and 2019. A total of 20 557 women (weighted, 113.1 million women) aged 21 to 65 years without previous hysterectomy were included. Analyses were conducted from March 30 to August 19, 2021.

EXPOSURES

Sociodemographic factors, including age, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, rurality of residence, and health insurance type.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were US Preventive Services Task Force guideline-concordant cervical cancer screening rates and self-reported primary reasons for not receiving up-to-date screening. For 2005, up-to-date screening was defined as screening every 3 years for women aged 21 to 65 years. For 2019, up-to-date screening was defined as screening every 3 years with a Papanicolaou test alone for women aged 21 to 29 years and screening every 3 years with a Papanicolaou test alone or every 5 years with high-risk human papillomavirus testing or cotesting for women aged 30 to 65 years. Population estimation included sampling weights.

RESULTS

Among 20 557 women (weighted, 113.1 million women) included in the study, most were aged 30 to 65 years (16 219 women; weighted, 86.3 million women [76.3%]) and had private insurance (13 571 women; weighted, 75.8 million women [67.0%]). With regard to race and ethnicity, 997 women (weighted, 6.9 million women [6.1%]) were Asian, 3821 women (weighted, 19.5 million women [17.2%]) were Hispanic, 2862 women (weighted, 14.8 million women [13.1%]) were non-Hispanic Black, 12 423 women (weighted, 69.0 million women [61.0%]) were non-Hispanic White, and 453 women (weighted, 3.0 million women [2.7%]) were of other races and/or ethnicities (including Alaska Native and American Indian [weighted, 955 000 women (0.8%)] and other single and multiple races or ethnicities [weighted, 2.0 million women (1.8%)]). In 2019, women aged 21 to 29 years had a significantly higher rate of overdue screening (29.1%) vs women aged 30 to 65 years (21.1%; P < .001). In both age groups, the proportion of women without up-to-date screening increased significantly from 2005 to 2019 (from 14.4% to 23.0%; P < .001). Significantly higher rates of overdue screening were found among those of Asian vs non-Hispanic White race and ethnicity (31.4% vs 20.1%; P = .01), those identifying as LGBQ+ (gender identity was not assessed because of a small sample) vs heterosexual (32.0% vs 22.2%; P < .001), those living in rural vs urban areas (26.2% vs 22.6%; P = .04), and those without insurance vs those with private insurance (41.7% vs 18.1%; P < .001). The most common reason for not receiving timely screening across all groups was lack of knowledge, ranging from 47.2% of women identifying as LGBQ+ to 64.4% of women with Hispanic ethnicity. Previous receipt of a human papillomavirus vaccine was not a primary reason for not having up-to-date screening (<1% of responses). From 2005 to 2019, among women aged 30 to 65 years, lack of access decreased significantly as a primary reason for not receiving screening (from 21.8% to 9.7%), whereas lack of knowledge (from 45.2% to 54.8%) and not receiving recommendations from health care professionals (from 5.9% to 12.0%) increased significantly.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This cross-sectional study found that cervical cancer screening that was concordant with US Preventive Services Task Force guidelines decreased in the US between 2005 and 2019, with lack of knowledge reported as the biggest barrier to receiving timely screening. Campaigns addressing patient knowledge and provider communication may help to improve screening rates, and cultural adaptation of interventions is needed to reduce existing disparities.

A screening assistance system for cervical cytology of squamous cell atypia based on a two-step combined CNN algorithm with label smoothing

BACKGROUND

Although many cervical cytology diagnostic support systems have been developed, it is challenging to classify overlapping cell clusters with a variety of patterns in the same way that humans do. In this study, we developed a fast and accurate system for the detection and classification of atypical cell clusters by using a two-step algorithm based on two different deep learning algorithms.

METHODS

We created 919 cell images from liquid-based cervical cytological samples collected at Sapporo Medical University and annotated them based on the Bethesda system as a dataset for machine learning. Most of the images captured overlapping and crowded cells, and images were oversampled by digital processing. The detection system consists of two steps: (1) detection of atypical cells using You Only Look Once v4 (YOLOv4) and (2) classification of the detected cells using ResNeSt. A label smoothing algorithm was used for the dataset in the second classification step. This method annotates multiple correct classes from a single cell image with a smooth probability distribution.

RESULTS

The first step, cell detection by YOLOv4, was able to detect all atypical cells above ASC-US without any observed false negatives. The detected cell images were then analyzed in the second step, cell classification by the ResNeSt algorithm, which exhibited average accuracy and F-measure values of 90.5% and 70.5%, respectively. The oversampling of the training image and label smoothing algorithm contributed to the improvement of the system's accuracy.

CONCLUSION

This system combines two deep learning algorithms to enable accurate detection and classification of cell clusters based on the Bethesda system, which has been difficult to achieve in the past. We will conduct further research and development of this system as a platform for augmented reality microscopes for cytological diagnosis.

Cancer statistics, 2022

Each year, the American Cancer Society estimates the numbers of new cancer cases and deaths in the United States and compiles the most recent data on population-based cancer occurrence and outcomes. Incidence data (through 2018) were collected by the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program; the National Program of Cancer Registries; and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries. Mortality data (through 2019) were collected by the National Center for Health Statistics. In 2022, 1,918,030 new cancer cases and 609,360 cancer deaths are projected to occur in the United States, including approximately 350 deaths per day from lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death. Incidence during 2014 through 2018 continued a slow increase for female breast cancer (by 0.5% annually) and remained stable for prostate cancer, despite a 4% to 6% annual increase for advanced disease since 2011. Consequently, the proportion of prostate cancer diagnosed at a distant stage increased from 3.9% to 8.2% over the past decade. In contrast, lung cancer incidence continued to decline steeply for advanced disease while rates for localized-stage increased suddenly by 4.5% annually, contributing to gains both in the proportion of localized-stage diagnoses (from 17% in 2004 to 28% in 2018) and 3-year relative survival (from 21% to 31%). Mortality patterns reflect incidence trends, with declines accelerating for lung cancer, slowing for breast cancer, and stabilizing for prostate cancer. In summary, progress has stagnated for breast and prostate cancers but strengthened for lung cancer, coinciding with changes in medical practice related to cancer screening and/or treatment. More targeted cancer control interventions and investment in improved early detection and treatment would facilitate reductions in cancer mortality.

Risk Factors for the Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer defined as cancer of the colon or rectum, is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in men and the second in women, and, according to the World Health Organization database GLOBOCAN, it accounts for nearly 1.4 million new cases annually worldwide. The occurrence of colorectal cancer is associated with nonmodifiable risk factors, including age and hereditary factors, as well as with modifiable environmental and lifestyle factors.

METHODS

The study included 800 patients, 400 diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 400 within the control group, who gave their written informed consent to participate in the study. Patients with cancer other than colorectal cancer were randomly selected for control group I, and patients with no cancer diagnosis were selected for control group II. The method used was a case-control study - an observational and analytical study with a control group, conducted among patients of the Clinical Oncology Centre and the Provincial Hospital in the years 2019-2020. The study comparing the exposure was carried out in a group of people who developed the endpoint, that is colorectal cancer, with the exposure in a well-matched group of controls who did not reach the endpoint. Assessment of activity and BMI was used according to WHO recommendations, as well as the expert system. The data were tested for the distribution and the homogeneity of variance was validated before applying the parameter tests. Comparison of quantitative variables between groups was performed using ANOVA.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 64.53 ± 8.86 years, of the control group I - 59.64 ± 9.33 and the control group II - 57.5 (7.83). There was a strong positive association between the incidence of ulcerative colitis and the risk of colorectal cancer (P < .01). Among obese subjects, the risk of developing colorectal cancer was 1.27 (95% CI, 1.06-1.53) compared with nonobese subjects. A strong positive relationship was found between low physical activity converted to metabolic equivalent of MET effort per week and the risk of colorectal cancer (P < .001). The relative risk for current smokers was 2.17 (95% CI 1.79-2.66). There was an association between higher fat consumption and higher red meat consumption and the risk of developing colorectal cancer (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity, low physical activity, active and passive smoking and high salt and red meat consumption have been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. These findings provide further evidence of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Cancer statistics, 2022

Each year, the American Cancer Society estimates the numbers of new cancer cases and deaths in the United States and compiles the most recent data on population-based cancer occurrence and outcomes. Incidence data (through 2018) were collected by the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program; the National Program of Cancer Registries; and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries. Mortality data (through 2019) were collected by the National Center for Health Statistics. In 2022, 1,918,030 new cancer cases and 609,360 cancer deaths are projected to occur in the United States, including approximately 350 deaths per day from lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death. Incidence during 2014 through 2018 continued a slow increase for female breast cancer (by 0.5% annually) and remained stable for prostate cancer, despite a 4% to 6% annual increase for advanced disease since 2011. Consequently, the proportion of prostate cancer diagnosed at a distant stage increased from 3.9% to 8.2% over the past decade. In contrast, lung cancer incidence continued to decline steeply for advanced disease while rates for localized-stage increased suddenly by 4.5% annually, contributing to gains both in the proportion of localized-stage diagnoses (from 17% in 2004 to 28% in 2018) and 3-year relative survival (from 21% to 31%). Mortality patterns reflect incidence trends, with declines accelerating for lung cancer, slowing for breast cancer, and stabilizing for prostate cancer. In summary, progress has stagnated for breast and prostate cancers but strengthened for lung cancer, coinciding with changes in medical practice related to cancer screening and/or treatment. More targeted cancer control interventions and investment in improved early detection and treatment would facilitate reductions in cancer mortality.

Patient-derived organoids for personalized gallbladder cancer modelling and drug screening

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is a relatively rare but highly aggressive cancer with late clinical detection and a poor prognosis. However, the lack of models with features consistent with human gallbladder tumours has hindered progress in pathogenic mechanisms and therapies.

METHODS

We established organoid lines derived from human GBC as well as normal gallbladder and benign gallbladder adenoma (GBA) tissues. The histopathology signatures of organoid cultures were identified by H&E staining, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The genetic and transcriptional features of organoids were analysed by whole-exome sequencing and RNA sequencing. A set of compounds targeting the most active signalling pathways in GBCs were screened for their ability to suppress GBC organoids. The antitumour effects of candidate compounds, CUDC-101 and CUDC-907, were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

The established organoids were cultured stably for more than 6 months and closely recapitulated the histopathology, genetic and transcriptional features, and intratumour heterogeneity of the primary tissues at the single-cell level. Notably, expression profiling analysis of the organoids revealed a set of genes that varied across the three subtypes and thus may participate in the malignant progression of gallbladder diseases. More importantly, we found that the dual PI3K/HDAC inhibitor CUDC-907 significantly restrained the growth of various GBC organoids with minimal toxicity to normal gallbladder organoids.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-derived organoids are potentially a useful platform to explore molecular pathogenesis of gallbladder tumours and discover personalized drugs.

The Impact of Medicare Health Insurance Coverage on Lung Cancer Screening

BACKGROUND

Annual lung cancer screening via low-dose computed tomography can reduce lung cancer mortality among high-risk adults by 20%; however, screening take-up remains low. Inadequate insurance coverage or access to care may be a barrier to screening.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to estimate the effect of nearly universal access to Medicare coverage on annual lung cancer screening.

RESEARCH DESIGN

A regression discontinuity design was used to estimate the causal effect of nearly universal access to Medicare at age 65. Data come from the 2017 to 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in 28 states that adopted the optional module on lung cancer screening and lung cancer risk.

SUBJECTS

A total of 11,163 individuals at high risk for lung cancer just above and below age 65.

MEASURE

Self-reported use of low-dose computed tomography to screen for lung cancer in the past 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 10,951 people at high lung cancer risk (45.7% women, response rate=98.1%) reported lung cancer screening information. Nearly universal access to Medicare increased lung cancer screening by 16.2 percentage points among men (95% confidence interval: 2.4%-30.0%, P=0.02), compared with a baseline screening rate of 11.1% just younger than age 65. Women had a baseline screening rate of 18.2% and experienced no statistically significant change in screening (1.6 percentage point increase, 95% confidence interval: -19.8% to 23.0%, P=0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

Gaining Medicare coverage at age 65 increased lung cancer screening take-up among men at high lung cancer risk. Lack of insurance or inadequate access to care hinders screening.

Health Literacy and Access to Care in Cancer Screening Among Korean Americans

BACKGROUND

Health literacy and access to care are critical facilitators for preventive health behaviors. After the passage of the Affordable Care Act in March 2010, little has been studied about how improved health insurance coverage has impacted the use of preventive health services among Korean Americans.

OBJECTIVE

The study assessed the impact of access to care, use of services, and health literacy on cancer screening among Korean Americans.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study of 377 Korean Americans age 18 years and older was conducted with a survey and convenient sampling in Texas.

KEY RESULTS

Although 79% of the sample had health insurance, 32% had never visited a health care provider, and 14% were delayed in care in the past 12 months. Only 11.6% were confident to complete medical forms, and 69.5% had limited levels of confidence. Cancer screening compliance rates were: mammography (50.4% at age 40-54 years; 46.6% at age 55 years and older), a Pap smear (29.4% at age 21-29 years; 78.4% at age 30-65 years; 72.2% at age 66 years and older), and colorectal cancer screening at age 45 years and older (stool tests 15.1%; sigmoidoscopy 27%; colonoscopy 51.3%). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that household income, gender, health insurance, and health literacy were significantly associated with self-reported cancer screening.

CONCLUSIONS

Korean Americans who participated in this study are characterized by marginalized health literacy, underused health care services, and significantly lower cancer screening compliance than the goals of Healthy People 2020. The following interventions are suggested to improve health literacy and health insurance literacy on cancer screening: culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate education for the guidelines concordant with cancer screening, effective communication skills with health care providers, support for navigating the health care system, and development of internet- or social media-based health education programs to meet the preferred communication methods of this population. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2021;5(4):e310-e318.] Plain Language Summary: Despite having improved health insurance coverage, Korean Americans of this study have marginalized health literacy, limited health insurance literacy, low cancer screening compliance, and underused health care services. The results of this study suggest several strategies to improve health literacy and health insurance literacy for Korean Americans, which may also apply to other groups with similar barriers.

Diagnostic role of circulating MiR-21 in colorectal cancer: a update meta-analysis

AIM

MicroRNA-21 is an oncogenic miRNA that modulates the expression of multiple cancer-related target genes. We conducted this meta-analysis to assess diagnostic role of circulating miR-21 in CRC, hoping to choose the best biomarker in CRC diagnosis.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, CNKI and WanFang database to identify records related to diagnostic role of circulating miR-21 in CRC. The search words were "microRNA-21", "miRNA-21", "colorectal cancer", "colorectal carcinoma" and "diagnosis". The searched articles were published before 14th July 2020.

RESULTS

We got 18 studies to conduct this meta-analysis including 1129 blood specimens of CRC patients and 951 control specimens. The meta-analysis showed that the pooled sensitivity and specificity of circulating miR-21 for CRC diagnosis were 77% (95% CI, 70-82) and 83% (95% CI, 78-88). The combined positive likelihood ratio (PLR) was 4.20 (95% CI, 3.12-5.66) and the combined negative likelihood ratio(NLR) was 0.30 (95% CI, 0.23-0.38). The diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 16.48 (95% CI 10.09-26.91) and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) for the included studies was 0.87(95%CI, 0.84-0.90).

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis results suggest that circulating miR-21 has a potential diagnostic value with moderate sensitivity and good specificity for CRC.

Challenges in diagnosing head and neck cancer in primary health care

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of head and neck cancer (HNC) will improve patient outcomes. The low incidence of HNC renders its detection challenging for a general practitioner (GP) in primary health care (PHC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To examine these challenges, our cohort consisted of all patients visiting PHC centres in the City of Helsinki in 2016. We chose 57 ICD-10 codes representing a sign or symptom resulting from a possible HNC and compared data for all new HNC patients.

RESULTS

A total of 242,211 patients (499,542 appointments) visited PHC centres, 11,896 (5%) of whom presented with a sign or symptom possibly caused by HNC. Altogether, 111 new HNCs were diagnosed within the Helsinki area, of which 40 (36%) were referred from PHC. The median delay from the initial PHC visit to the referral to specialist care was 5 days, whereby 88% of patients were referred within one month.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the low incidence of HNC and the large number of patients presenting with HNC-related symptoms, GPs working in PHC sort out potential HNC patients from the general patient group in most cases remarkably effectively. KEY MESSAGES For every head and neck cancer (HNC) patient encountered in the primary health care, a general practitioner (GP) will meet approximately 6000 other patients, 100 of whom exhibit a sign or a symptom potentially caused by a HNC. Despite the low incidence of HNC, GPs referred patients to specialist care effectively, limiting the median delay from the initial appointment to referral to only 5 days.

Increased Disparities in Patients Diagnosed with Metastatic Lung Cancer Following Lung CT Screening in the United States

OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine if implementation of low dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer in the United States had led to changes in patients being diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer over time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) database was utilized to determine the proportion of lung cancers diagnosed as stage I to III and stage IV from 2009-2018. Changes in lung cancer stage distribution were compared in the overall population and by race.

RESULTS

From 2009 to 2018, the proportion of stage I to III lung cancers increased from 52% (51.3%-53.2%) in 2009 to 56% (54.0%-55.8%) in 2018 (P < .001). Correspondingly, the proportion of lung cancers diagnosed in stage IV decreased from 48% (46.8%-48.7%) in 2009 to 45% (44.2%-46.0%) (P < .001) in 2018. For white patients, the proportion increased from 53% (51.6%-53.7%) to 56% (55.1%-57.1%) (P < .001). However, for black patients, no trend was present, with the proportion being 51% (47.9%-53.4%) in 2009 and 52% (49.0%-54.2%) in 2018 (P = .303).

CONCLUSION

Since the implementation of LDCT screening, the proportion of early-stage lung cancers increased in the general population. These changes in stage distribution were not present in black patients.

Predictors of Population Awareness of Cancer Genetic Tests: Implications for Enhancing Equity in Engaging in Cancer Prevention and Precision Medicine

Racial and ethnic disparities in genetic awareness (GA) can diminish the impact of personalized cancer treatment and risk assessment. We assessed factors predictive of GA in a diverse population-based sample to inform awareness strategies and reduce disparities in genetic testing.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to August 2019, with the survey e-mailed to 7,575 adult residents in southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Constructs from National Cancer Institute Health Information and National Trends Survey assessed cancer attitudes or beliefs, health literacy, and numeracy. Characteristics were summarized with mean ± standard deviation for numeric variables and frequency counts and percentages for categorical variables. Comparison of factors by race or ethnicity (non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black) and sex was conducted by t-tests, chi-square, or Fisher's exact tests. Multivariate logistic regression models were conducted to identify factors independently predictive of GA.

RESULTS

Of 1,557 respondents, data from 940 respondents (the mean age was 45 ± 16.2 years, 35.5% males, and 23% non-Hispanic Blacks) were analyzed. Factors associated with higher GA included female gender (P < .001), non-Hispanic White (P < .001), college education (P < .001), middle-higher income (P < .001), stronger belief in genetic basis of cancer (P < .001), lower cancer fatalism (P = .004), motivation for cancer information (P < .001), and higher numeracy (P = .002). On multivariate analysis, college education (odds ratio [OR] 1.79; 95% CI, 1.22 to 2.63), higher motivation for cancer information (OR 1.56; 95% CI, 1.17 to 2.09), stronger belief in genetics of cancer (OR 2.21; 95% CI, 1.48 to 3.30), and higher medical literacy (OR 2.21; 95% CI, 1.34 to 3.65) predicted greater GA.

CONCLUSION

This population-based study conducted in the precision medicine era identified novel modifiable factors, importantly perceptions of cancer genetics and medical literacy, as predictive of GA, which informs strategies to promote equitable engagement in genetically based cancer care.