Why individual-level interventions are not enough: Systems-level determinants of oral anticancer medication adherence

Nonadherence to oral anticancer medications (OAMs) in the United States is as low as 33% for some cancers. The reasons for nonadherence to these lifesaving medications are multifactorial, yet the majority of studies focus on patient-level factors influencing uptake and adherence. Individually based interventions to increase patient adherence have not been effective, and this warrants attention to factors at the payor, pharmaceutical, and clinical systems levels. Based on the authors' research and clinical experiences, this commentary brings fresh attention to the long-standing issue of OAM nonadherence, a growing quality-of-care issue, from a systems perspective. In this commentary, the key driving factors in pharmaceutical and payor systems (state and federal laws, payor/insurance companies, and pharmaceutical companies), clinical systems (hospitals and providers), and patient contexts that have trickle-down effects on patient adherence to OAMs are outlined. In the end, the authors' recommendations include examining the influence of laws governing OAM drug pricing, OAM supply, and provider reimbursement; reducing the need for prior authorization of long-approved OAMs; identifying cost-effective ways for providers to monitor nonadherence; examining issues of provider bias in OAM prescriptions; and further elucidating in which contexts patients are likely to be able to adhere. These recommendations offer a starting point for an examination of the chain of systems influencing patient adherence and may help to finally resolve persistently high levels of OAM nonadherence.

Social capital and utilization of immunization service: A multilevel analysis in rural Uttar Pradesh, India

The National Health Policy (2017) of India advocates Universal Health Coverage through inclusive growth, decentralization, and rebuilding a cohesive community through a participatory process. To achieve this goal, understanding social organization, and community relationships - defined as social capital - is critical. This study aimed to explore the influence of individual and community-level social capital on a critical health system performance indicator, three-doses of diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT3) immunization among 12-59 month children, in rural Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. The analysis is based on a cross-sectional survey from two districts of UP, which included 2239 children 12-59 months of age (level 1) from 1749 households (level 2) nested within 346 communities (level 3). We used multilevel confirmatory factor analysis to generate standardized factor scores of social capital constructs (Organizational Participation, Social Support, Trust and Social Cohesion) of the household heads and mothers both at individual and community level, which were then used in the multilevel logistic regressions to explore the independent and contextual effect of social capital on a child's DPT3 immunization status. The result showed only community-level Social Cohesion of the mothers was associated with a child's DPT3 immunization status (Adjusted odds ratio = 1.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.12-1.54; p = 0.04). Beyond its independent effect on utilization of immunization service, the collective Social Cohesion of the mothers significantly modified the relationship of child age, mother's knowledge of immunization, community wealth, and communities' contact with frontline workers with immunization status of the child. With a strong theoretical underpinning, the result substantially contributes to understanding the individual and contextual predictors of immunization service utilization and further advancing the literature of social capital in India. This study can serve as a starting point to catalyze social capital within the health interventions for achieving wellbeing and the collective development of society.

Race/Ethnicity Differences in Trends of Marijuana, Cigarette, and Alcohol Use Among 8th, 10th, and 12th Graders in Washington State, 2004-2016

Accurate estimates of substance use in the teenage years by race/ethnicity may help identify when to intervene to prevent long-term substance use disparities. We examined trends in past 30-day use of marijuana, cigarette, and alcohol among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders in Washington State, which passed a recreational marijuana law in 2012 and initiated retail marijuana sales in 2014. Data are from the 2004-2016 Washington Healthy Youth Surveys (n = 161,992). We used time series regression models to assess linear and quadratic trends in substance use for the full sample and stratified on race/ethnicity and grade level and examined relative differences in prevalence of use by race/ethnicity. In Washington, across all racial/ethnic groups, marijuana use peaked in 2012. Although there was not a significant overall change in marijuana use for the full sample across the study period, there was a statistically significant increase in use among 12th graders and a statistically significant decrease among 8th graders. Relative to Whites, Asians had a lower prevalence of marijuana use, whereas all other race/ethnicity groups had a higher prevalence of use. Prevalence of marijuana use is particularly high among American Indian/Alaska Native and Black youth and has increased most rapidly among 12th grade Hispanic/Latinx youth. There were large and statistically significant decreases in alcohol and cigarette use across the study period for the full sample, as well as for each race/ethnicity group. These findings highlight the need for continued monitoring of trends in use among these groups and potentially warrant consideration of selective interventions that specifically focus on students of color and that include developmentally-appropriate strategies relevant to each grade.

Healthcare system distrust and the breast cancer continuum of care

PURPOSE

To identify and synthesize the literature on healthcare system distrust across the breast cancer continuum of care.

METHODS

We searched CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science from January 1, 1990 to December 31, 2018 for all peer-reviewed publications addressing the role of healthcare system trust, distrust or mistrust in the breast cancer continuum of care.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 20 studies, seven qualitative studies and thirteen quantitative studies. Two studies assessed genetic testing, eleven assessed screening and seven assessed treatment and follow-up. Twelve studies evaluated mistrust, five evaluated distrust, and three evaluated trust. Study populations included African American, American Indian, Latina, Hispanic, and Asian American participants.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare system distrust is prevalent across many different racial and ethnic groups and operates across the entire breast cancer continuum of care. It is an important yet understudied barrier to cancer. We hope that the knowledge garnered by this study will enable researchers to form effective and targeted interventions to reduce healthcare system distrust mediated disparities in breast cancer outcomes.

Economic Insecurity and Deaths of Despair in US Counties

Recent research has implicated economic insecurity in increasing midlife death rates and "deaths of despair," including suicide, chronic liver disease, and drug and alcohol poisoning. In this ecological longitudinal study, we evaluated the association between changes in economic insecurity and increases in deaths of despair and midlife all-cause mortality in US counties during 2000-2015. We extended a previously developed measure of economic insecurity using indicators from the Census and Federal Reserve Bank in US counties for the years 2000 and 2010. Linear regression models were used to estimate the association of change in economic insecurity with change in death rates through 2015. Counties experiencing elevated economic insecurity in either 2000 or 2010 had higher rates of deaths of despair and all-cause midlife mortality at baseline but similar rates of increase in deaths of despair from 2001 to 2015 compared with counties with stable low economic insecurity. Counties in the highest tertile of economic insecurity in 2000 and 2010 had 41% (95% confidence interval: 1.36, 1.47) higher midlife mortality rates at baseline and a rate of increase of 2% more per 5-year period (95% confidence interval: 1.00, 1.03) than counties with stable low economic insecurity. Economic insecurity may represent a population-level driver of US death trends.

Exploration of Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance by Gender for a Modified Shortened Adapted Social Capital Assessment Tool in India

Social capital is defined as the nature of the social relationship between individuals or groups and the embedded resources available through their social network. It is considered as a critical determinant of health and well-being. Thus, it is essential to assess the performance of any tool when meaningfully comparing social capital between specific groups. Using measurement invariance (MI) analysis, this paper explored the factor structure of the social capital of men and women measured by a modified Shortened Adapted Social Capital Assessment Tool (SASCAT-I) in rural Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. The study sample comprised 5,287 men (18-101 years) and 7,186 women (15-45 years) from 6,218 randomly selected households who responded to SASCAT-I during a community-level cross-sectional survey. Social capital factor structure was examined by both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and MI across genders was investigated using multigroup CFA. While disregarding gender, four unique factors (Organizational Participation, Social Support, Trust, and Social Cohesion) represented the structure of social capital. The MI analysis presented a partial metric-invariance indicating factor loadings for Organizational Participation and Social Support were the same across genders. The gender-stratified analysis demonstrated that a four-factor solution was best fitted for both men and women. Men and women of rural UP interpreted social capital differently as the perception of Trust and Social Cohesion varied across genders. For any future applications of SASCAT-I, we recommend gender-stratified factor analysis to quantify social capital's measure, acknowledging its multidimensionality.

Effect of Home-Based Exercise and Weight Loss Programs on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema Outcomes Among Overweight Breast Cancer Survivors: The WISER Survivor Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

To our knowledge, no randomized clinical trials have assessed the effects of the combination of weight loss and home-based exercise programs on lymphedema outcomes.

Objective

To assess weight loss, home-based exercise, and the combination of weight loss and home-based exercise with clinical lymphedema outcomes among overweight breast cancer survivors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial (Women in Steady Exercise Research [WISER] Survivor clinical trial ) of 351 overweight breast cancer survivors with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) was conducted in conference rooms at academic and community hospitals and in the homes of participants from March 12, 2012, to May 28, 2016; follow-up was conducted for 1 year from the start of the intervention. Statistical analysis by intention to treat was performed from September 26, 2018, to October 28, 2018.

Interventions

A 52-week, home-based exercise program of strength/resistance training twice per week and 180 minutes of walking per week, a weight loss program of 20 weeks of meal replacements and 52 weeks of lifestyle modification counseling, and a combination of the home-based exercise and weight loss programs.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The 12-month change in the percentage of interlimb volume difference.

Results

Of 351 participants, 90 were randomized to the control group (facility-based lymphedema care with no home-based exercise or weight loss intervention), 87 to the exercise intervention group, 87 to the weight loss intervention group, and 87 to the combined exercise and weight loss intervention group; 218 (62.1%) were white, 122 (34.8%) were black, and 11 (3.1%) were of other races or ethnicities. Median time since breast cancer diagnosis was 6 years (range, 1-29 years). Mean (SD) total upper extremity score changes from the objective clinical evaluation were -1.40 (11.10) in the control group, -2.54 (13.20) in the exercise group, -3.54 (12.88) in the weight loss group, and -3.84 (10.09) in the combined group. Mean (SD) overall upper extremity score changes from the self-report survey were -0.39 (2.33) in the control group, -0.12 (2.14) in the exercise group, -0.57 (2.47) in the weight loss group, and -0.62 (2.38) in the combined group. Weight loss from baseline was -0.55% (95% CI, -2.22% to 1.11%) in the control group, -8.06% (95% CI, -9.82% to 6.29%) in the combined group, -7.37% (95% CI, -8.90% to -5.84%) in the weight loss group, and -0.44% (95% CI, -1.81% to 0.93%) in the exercise group.

Conclusions and Relevance

Study results indicate that weight loss, home-based exercise, and combined interventions did not improve BCRL outcomes; a supervised facility-based program of exercise may be more beneficial than a home-based program for improving lymphedema outcomes.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01515124.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Awareness Among Men Who have Sex with Men

Racial and ethnic disparities exist in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness and care. We evaluated how racial and ethnic disparities in PrEP awareness among MSM presenting to a sexually transmitted disease clinic changed from 2013 to 2016. Among 1243 MSM (68% non-Hispanic White, 22% Hispanic, and 10% non-Hispanic Black), PrEP awareness increased overall, but awareness was lower among Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black MSM relative to non-Hispanic White MSM. Awareness converged among non-Hispanic Black and White MSM by 2016, but remained consistently lower among Hispanic MSM. Improved efforts are needed to address disparities in PrEP awareness.

Breast Cancer Screening and Care Among Black Sexual Minority Women: A Scoping Review of the Literature from 1990 to 2017

Introduction: Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages of breast cancer compared with White women due to lower frequency of screening and lack of timely follow-up after abnormal screening results. Disparities in breast cancer screening, risk, and mortality are present within both Black women and sexual minority communities; however, there exists limited research concerning breast cancer care among Black sexual minority women. Materials and Methods: This scoping review examines the literature from 1990 to 2017 of the breast cancer care continuum among Black sexual minority women, including behavioral risk factors, screening, treatment, and survivorship. A total of 91 articles were identified through PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) databases. Fifteen articles were selected for data extraction, which met the criteria for including Black/African American women, discussing breast cancer care among both racial and sexual minorities, and being a peer-reviewed article. Results: The 15 articles were primarily within urban contexts, and defined sexual minorities as lesbian or bisexual women. Across all the studies, Black sexual minority women were highly under-represented, and key conclusions are not fully applicable to Black sexual minority women. Sexual minority women had a higher prevalence of breast cancer risk factors (i.e., nulliparity, fewer mammograms, higher alcohol intake, and lower oral contraceptive use). Furthermore, some studies noted homophobia from health providers as potential barriers to engagement in care for sexual minority women. Conclusions: The lack of studies concerning Black sexual minority women in breast cancer care indicates the invisibility of a group that experiences multiple marginalized identities. More research is needed to capture the dynamics of the breast cancer care continuum for Black sexual minority women.

Patient recommendations for reducing long-lasting economic burden after breast cancer

Background

In the United States, patients who have breast cancer experience significant economic burden compared with those who have other types of cancers. Cancer‐related economic burden is exacerbated by adverse treatment effects. Strategies to resolve the economic burden caused by breast cancer and its adverse treatment effects have stemmed from the perspectives of health care providers, oncology navigators, and other subject‐matter experts. For the current study, patient‐driven recommendations were elicited to reduce economic burden after 1) breast cancer and 2) breast cancer‐related lymphedema, which is a common, persistent adverse effect of breast cancer.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 long‐term breast cancer survivors who were residents of Pennsylvania or New Jersey in 2015 and were enrolled in a 6‐month observational study. Purposive sampling ensured equal representation by age, socioeconomic position, and lymphedema diagnosis. Semistructured interviews addressed economic challenges, supports used, and patient recommendations for reducing financial challenges. Interviews were coded, and representative quotes from the patient recommendations were analyzed and reported to illustrate key findings.

Results

Of 40 interviewees (mean age, 64 years; mean time since diagnosis, 12 years), 27 offered recommendations to reduce the economic burden caused by cancer and its adverse treatment effects. Nine recommendations emerged across 4 major themes: expanding affordable insurance and insurance‐covered items, especially for lymphedema treatment (among the 60% who reported lymphedema); supportive domestic help; financial assistance from diagnosis through treatment; and employment‐preserving policies.

Conclusions

The current study yielded 9 actionable, patient‐driven recommendations—changes to insurance, supportive services, financial assistance, and protective policies—to reduce breast cancer‐related economic burden. These recommendations should be tested through policy and programmatic interventions.

Nine actionable, patient‐driven recommendations are offered for reducing economic burden after breast cancer. Recommendations address changes to insurance, supportive services, financial assistance, and protective policies that can reduce economic burden after cancer.

Health Behaviors and Lifestyle Interventions in African American Breast Cancer Survivors: A Review

Background: African American breast cancer survivors have a higher incidence of estrogen receptor negative and basal-like (e.g., triple negative) tumors, placing them at greater risk for poorer survival when compared to women of other racial and ethnic groups. While access to equitable care, late disease stage at diagnosis, tumor biology, and sociodemographic characteristics contribute to health disparities, poor lifestyle characteristics (i.e., inactivity, obesity, and poor diet) contribute equally to these disparities. Lifestyle interventions hold promise in shielding African American survivors from second cancers, comorbidities, and premature mortality, but they are often underrepresented in studies promoting positive behaviors. This review examined the available literature to document health behaviors and lifestyle intervention (i.e., obesity, physical activity, and sedentary behavior) studies in African American breast cancer survivors. Methods: We used PubMed, Academic Search Premier, and Scopus to identify cross-sectional and intervention studies examining the lifestyle behaviors of African American breast cancer survivors. Identified intervention studies were assessed for risk of bias. Other articles were identified and described to provide context for the review. Results: Our systematic review identified 226 relevant articles. The cross-sectional articles indicated poor adherence to physical activity and dietary intake and high rates of overweight and obesity. The 16 identified intervention studies indicated reasonable to modest study adherence rates (>70%), significant reductions in weight (range -1.9 to -3.6%), sedentary behavior (-18%), and dietary fat intake (range -13 to -33%) and improvements in fruit and vegetable intake (range +25 to +55%) and physical activity (range +13 to +544%). The risk of bias for most studies were rated as high (44%) or moderate (44%). Conclusions: The available literature suggests that African American breast cancer survivors adhere to interventions of various modalities and are capable of making modest to significant changes. Future studies should consider examining (a) mediators and moderators of lifestyle behaviors and interventions, (b) biological outcomes, and (c) determinants of enhanced survival in this population.

"It still affects our economic situation": long-term economic burden of breast cancer and lymphedema

PURPOSE

Financial toxicity after breast cancer may be exacerbated by adverse treatment effects, like breast cancer-related lymphedema. As the first study of long-term out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer survivors in the USA with lymphedema, this mixed methods study compares out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer survivors with and without lymphedema.

METHODS

In 2015, 129 breast cancer survivors from Pennsylvania and New Jersey completed surveys on demographics, economically burdensome events since cancer diagnosis, cancer treatment factors, insurance, and comorbidities; and prospective monthly out-of-pocket cost diaries over 12 months. Forty participants completed in-person semi-structured interviews. GLM regression predicted annual dollar amount estimates.

RESULTS

46.5% of participants had lymphedema. Mean age was 63 years (SD = 8). Average time since cancer diagnosis was 12 years (SD = 5). Over 98% had insurance. Annual adjusted health-related out-of-pocket costs excluding productivity losses totaled $2306 compared to $1090 (p = 0.006) for those without lymphedema, or including productivity losses, $3325 compared to $2792 (p = 0.55). Interviews suggested that the cascading nature of economic burden on long-term savings and work opportunities, and insufficiency of insurance to cover lymphedema-related needs drove cost differences. Higher costs delayed retirement, reduced employment, and increased inability to access lymphedema care.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term cancer survivors with lymphedema may face up to 112% higher out-of-pocket costs than those without lymphedema, which influences lymphedema management, and has lasting impact on savings and productivity. Findings reinforce the need for actions at policy, provider, and individual patient levels, to reduce lymphedema costs. Future work should explore patient-driven recommendations to reduce economic burden after cancer.

Consumer credit, chronic disease and risk behaviours

BACKGROUND

Credit scores have been identified as a marker of disease burden. This study investigated credit scores' association with chronic diseases and health behaviours that are associated with chronic diseases.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis included data on 2083 residents of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA in 2015. Nine-digit ZIP code level FICO credit scores were appended to individual self-reported chronic diseases (obesity, diabetes, hypertension) and related health behaviours (smoking, exercise, and salt intake and medication adherence among those with hypertension). Models adjusted for individual-level and area-level demographics and retail pharmacy accessibility.

RESULTS

Median ZIP code credit score was 665 (SD=58). In adjusted models, each 50-point increase in ZIP code credit score was significantly associated with: 8% lower chronic disease risk; 6% lower overweight/obesity risk, 19% lower diabetes risk; 9% lower hypertension risk and 14% lower smoking risk. Other health behaviours were not significantly associated. Compared with high prime credit, subprime credit score was significantly associated with a 15%-70% increased risk of chronic disease, following a dose-response pattern with a prime rating.

CONCLUSION

Lower area level credit scores may be associated with greater chronic disease prevalence but not necessarily with related health behaviours. Area-level consumer credit may make a novel contribution to identifying chronic disease patterns.

Consumer credit scores as a novel tool for identifying health in urban U.S. neighborhoods

PURPOSE

Credit scores may operate as a socioeconomic indicator of health: they represent cumulative financial history that directly influences ability to access financial and nonfinancial resources related to health. Yet, little is known about the relationship of credit score and health or to traditional measures of socioeconomic position (SEP). Our objectives were to (1) evaluate the association between area-level credit score and individual self-rated health and (2) compare credit score to traditional markers of area-level SEP in predicting self-rated health.

METHODS

Equifax estimates of average household credit score in 2015 among nine-digit zip code regions were combined with a representative survey of 2083 residents of Philadelphia to estimate the correlation with income, housing value, education, and occupational status and then predict the odds of self-rated health for credit score and each SEP measure.

RESULTS

Credit score was moderately correlated with SEP markers (r = -0.78 to 0.49). After adjusting for area- and individual-level SEP and demographic factors, each SD increase in credit score is associated with 26% greater odds of better self-rated health (odds ratio = 1.26, 95% confidence interval: 1.09-1.46). Credit score had a larger effect size than other SEP markers.

CONCLUSIONS

Credit score may be a useful complement to traditional measures of SEP in assessing health outcomes.

Social capital and HIV/AIDS in the United States: Knowledge, gaps, and future directions

Purpose

Social capital is a well-established predictor of several behavioral health outcomes. However, we know less about the relationship with prevention, transmission, and treatment of HIV/AIDS outcomes in the United States (US).

Methods

In 2017, we conducted a scoping review of empirical studies investigating the relationships between social capital and HIV/AIDS in the US by searching PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Sociological Abstracts with no restriction on publication date, for articles in English language. Sample search terms included: HIV infections OR HIV OR AIDS OR acquired immunodeficiency syndrome OR human immunodeficiency virus AND social capital OR social control, informal OR social participation OR social cohesion OR generalized trust OR social trust OR collective efficacy OR community mob* OR civic participation.

Results

We identified 1581 unique manuscripts and reviewed 13 based on eligibility criteria. The earliest eligible study was published in 2003. More than half (n=7/13) focused on HIV or AIDS diagnosis, then prescribing ART and/or adherence (n=5/13), then linkage and or engagement in HIV care (n=4/13). Fifty eight percent (58%) documented a protective association between at least one social capital measure and an HIV/AIDS outcome. Seven studies used validated social capital scales, however there was substantial variation in conceptual/operational definitions and measures used. Most studies were based on samples from the Northeast. Three studies directly focused on or stratified analyses among subgroups or key populations. Studies were cross-sectional, so causal inference is unknown.

Conclusion

Our review suggests that social capital may be an important determinant of HIV/AIDS prevention, transmission, and treatment outcomes. We recommend future research assess these associations using qualitative and mixed-methods approaches, longitudinally, examine differences across subgroups and geographic region, include a wider range of social capital constructs, and examine indicators beyond HIV diagnosis, as well as how mechanisms like stigma link social capital to HIV/AIDS.

Social factors matter in cancer risk and survivorship

Greater attention to social factors, such as race/ethnicity, socioeconomic position, and others, are needed across the cancer continuum, including breast cancer, given differences in tumor biology and genetic variants have not completely explained the persistent Black/White breast cancer mortality disparity. In this commentary, we use examples in breast cancer risk assessment and survivorship to demonstrate how the failure to appropriately incorporate social factors into the design, recruitment, and analysis of research studies has resulted in missed opportunities to reduce persistent cancer disparities. The conclusion offers recommendations for how to better document and use information on social factors in cancer research and care by (1) increasing education and awareness about the importance of inclusion of social factors in clinical research; (2) improving testing and documentation of social factors by incorporating them into journal guidelines and reporting stratified results; and (3) including social factors to refine extant tools that assess cancer risk and assign cancer care. Implementing the recommended changes would enable more effective design and implementation of interventions and work toward eliminating cancer disparities by accounting for the social and environmental contexts in which cancer patients live and are treated.

The Affordability of Providing Sexually Transmitted Disease Services at a Safety-net Clinic

INTRODUCTION

Sexually transmitted diseases continue to increase in the U.S. There is a growing need for financially viable models to ensure the longevity of safety-net sexually transmitted disease clinics, which provide testing and treatment to high-risk populations. This micro-costing analysis estimated the number of visits required to balance cost and revenue of a sexually transmitted disease clinic in a Medicaid expansion state.

METHODS

In 2017, actual and projected cost and revenues were estimated from the Rhode Island sexually transmitted disease clinic in 2015. Projected revenues for a hypothetical clinic offering a standard set of sexually transmitted disease services were based on Medicaid; private ("commercial") insurance; and institutional ("list price") reimbursement rates. The number of visits needed to cover clinic costs at each rate was assessed.

RESULTS

Total operating cost for 2,153 clinic visits was estimated at $255,769, or $119 per visit. Laboratory testing and salaries each accounted for 44% of operating costs, medications for treatment 7%, supplies 5%, and 28% of visits used insurance. For a standard clinic offering a basic set of sexually transmitted disease services to break even, a projected 73% of visits need to be covered at the Medicaid rate, 38% at private rate, or 11% at institutional rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexually transmitted disease clinics may be financially viable when a majority of visits are billed at a Medicaid rate; however, mixed private/public models may be needed if not all visits are billed. In this manner, sexually transmitted disease clinics can be solvent even if not all visits are billed to insurance, thus ensuring access to uninsured or underinsured patients.

How Segregation Makes Us Fat: Food Behaviors and Food Environment as Mediators of the Relationship Between Residential Segregation and Individual Body Mass Index

OBJECTIVES

Racial residential segregation affects food landscapes that dictate residents' food environments and is associated with obesity risk factors, including individual dietary patterns and behaviors. We examine if food behaviors and environments mediate the association between segregation and body mass index (BMI).

METHODS

Non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks living in the St. Louis and Kansas City metro regions from 2012 to 2013 were surveyed on dietary behaviors, food environment, and BMI (n = 1,412). These data were combined with the CDC's modified retail food environment index and 2012 American Community Survey data to calculate racial segregation using various evenness and exposure indices. Multi-level mediation analyses were conducted to determine if dietary behavior and food environment mediate the association between racial residential segregation and individual BMI.

RESULTS

The positive association between racial segregation and individual BMI is partially mediated by dietary behaviors and fully mediated by food environments.

CONCLUSION

Racial segregation (evenness and exposure) is associated with BMI, mediated by dietary behaviors and food environment. Elements of the food environment, which form the context for dietary behaviors, are potential targets for interventions to reduce obesity in residentially segregated areas.

Do Cancer-Related Fatigue and Physical Activity Vary by Age for Black Women With a History of Breast Cancer?

INTRODUCTION

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is the most uncomfortable symptom among women with a history of breast cancer. Black women are more likely than women of other racial/ethnic groups to have CRF risk factors, such as physical inactivity and obesity, yet CRF studies have not focused on black women. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis to assess CRF and physical activity among black women survivors of breast cancer.

METHOD

In May and July of 2012, 267 members (mean age, 54 y) of the Sisters Network, Inc, completed an online survey of sociodemographic characteristics, medical characteristics, and physical activity, and a fatigue instrument (the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy [FACIT]). Multiple linear regression assessed fatigue and physical activity compliance (ie, 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week).

RESULTS

Participants had an average FACIT score of 32.3, Fatigue was greater (P < .001) among the 56% of women not meeting physical activity guidelines. In multivariable analysis, correlates of fatigue showed that physical activity compliance (β = 3.20, P < .001) and older age group (50-59 y: β = 3.98, P = .001; ≥60 y,: β = 3.76, P = .003) were associated with less fatigue. The interaction between age and fatigue was also significant: mean differences in fatigue by physical activity level were obvious only among women younger than 50 years. (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Physical activity compliance was associated with a lower level of fatigue. However, the effect of physical activity on fatigue may differ by age. Interventions aimed at curbing CRF in black women should consider age-appropriate strategies that can be integrated into existing lifestyles.

The women in steady exercise research (WISER) survivor trial: The innovative transdisciplinary design of a randomized controlled trial of exercise and weight-loss interventions among breast cancer survivors with lymphedema

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer survivors face dual challenges: long term sequelae of treatment, and risk of recurrent disease. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle complicate both challenges. The WISER Survivor trial assessed the effects of exercise and/or weight-loss on lymphedema, biomarkers of breast cancer recurrence, and quality of life. We report on the innovative transdisciplinary design of this trial and report attrition rates.

METHODS

This one year trial randomized breast cancer survivors who had a BMI of ≥25kg/m2, were sedentary and had breast-cancer-related-lymphedema to 1) exercise (weight training and aerobic exercise) 2) weight-loss 3) exercise and weight-loss 4) or control group. Innovative aspects included: adaptation of a community-based weight training program to a largely home-based program; use of a commercial meal replacement system as part of the lifestyle modification weight-loss program; inclusion of measures of cost-effectiveness to enable economic evaluations; and alignment with a parallel mouse model for breast cancer recurrence to enable transdisciplinary research. In this model, mice bearing dormant residual tumor cells, which spontaneously relapse, were placed on a high-fat diet. Overweight animals were randomly assigned to exercise, calorie restriction, both, or control group and followed for cancer recurrence. The animal model will guide mechanistic biomarkers to be tested in the human trial.

RESULTS & DISCUSSION

351 participants were randomized; 13 experienced breast cancer recurrence during the trial. Of the 338 participants without recurrence, 83% completed the trial. The WISER Survivor trial will show the effects of exercise and weight-loss on lymphedema outcomes, biomarkers of recurrence and quality of life. NCT ClinicalTrials.gov registration #: NCT01515124.

Healthcare System Distrust, Physician Trust, and Patient Discordance with Adjuvant Breast Cancer Treatment Recommendations

Background: Adjuvant therapy after breast cancer surgery decreases recurrence and increases survival, yet not all women receive and complete it. Previous research has suggested that distrust in medical institutions plays a role in who initiates adjuvant treatment, but has not assessed treatment completion, nor the potential mediating role of physician distrust.Methods: Women listed in Pennsylvania and Florida cancer registries, who were under the age of 65 when diagnosed with localized invasive breast cancer between 2005 and 2007, were surveyed by mail in 2007 to 2009. Survey participants self-reported demographics, cancer stage and treatments, treatment discordance (as defined by not following their surgeon or oncologist treatment recommendation), healthcare system distrust, and physician trust. Age and cancer stage were verified against cancer registry records. Logistic regression assessed the relationship between highest and lowest tertiles of healthcare system distrust and the dichotomous outcome of treatment discordance, controlling for demographics and clinical treatment factors, and testing for mediation by physician trust.Results: Of the 2,754 participants, 30.2% (n = 832) reported not pursing at least one recommended treatment. The mean age was 52. Patients in the highest tertile of healthcare system distrust were 22% more likely to report treatment discordance than the lowest tertile; physician trust did not mediate the association between healthcare system distrust and treatment discordance.Conclusions: Healthcare system distrust is positively associated with treatment discordance, defined as failure to initiate or complete physician-recommended adjuvant treatment after breast cancer.Impact: Interventions should test whether or not resolving institutional distrust reduces treatment discordance. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1745-52. ©2017 AACR.

Strategic recruitment of an ethnically diverse cohort of overweight survivors of breast cancer with lymphedema

BACKGROUND

Black women are more likely to experience adverse effects from cancer treatment such as lymphedema. Thus, black women may particularly benefit from research regarding interventions to improve lymphedema. Herein, the authors report the challenges and strategies related to the recruitment of minority survivors of breast cancer and to the recruitment of survivors of breast cancer with lymphedema into the Women In Steady Exercise Research (WISER) Survivor Clinical Trial.

METHODS

Subjects for this community-based trial were recruited from the Philadelphia area through active (mailings) and passive (printed materials and Web site) recruitment strategies. In addition, education sessions coordinated through partner hospitals in communities with a predominantly minority population were conducted to increase awareness of lymphedema in survivors of breast cancer. Women who were interested in the study were screened for lymphedema via telephone questionnaire and invited to see a study-related certified lymphedema therapist to confirm the presence of lymphedema.

RESULTS

Screening was conducted among 2295 women: 628 were eligible, 450 consented, and 351 were randomized. Minority women comprised 38% of the study population. Letters to women on state and hospital registries resulted in a 0.4% randomization rate; education sessions yielded a 10% randomization rate. The authors observed that approximately 23.6% of the study sample had no previous diagnosis of lymphedema.

CONCLUSIONS

The WISER Survivor Clinical Trial faced multiple recruitment challenges and used unique strategies to successfully enroll minority survivors of breast cancer into a lifestyle intervention. Cancer 2018;124:95-104. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

Abstract 4215: Cancer-related fatigue and physical activity vary by age for black women with a history of breast cancer

Purpose: Cancer-related fatigue is the most discomforting symptom among women with a history of breast cancer. Black women are more likely to experience risk factors for cancer-related fatigue, like physical inactivity and obesity, yet cancer-related fatigue studies have not explicitly focused on Black women. This cross-sectional analysis assesses cancer-related fatigue and physical activity among Black female breast cancer survivors.

Methods: In May and July of 2012, 266 members of the Sisters Network, Inc completed an online survey on: demographics, cancer history and treatment, fatigue using the 13-item Function Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) Fatigue Scale, and engagement in ≥150 minutes per week of physical activity (CDC guideline). Multiple linear regression assessed relationships between fatigue and physical activity.

Results: The average participant was 54 (SD=9) with a FACIT score of 13.63, indicating “severe fatigue”. Fatigue was greater (p=0.02) among the 56% of women meeting physical activity guidelines. Multivariable analysis showed that meeting physical activity guidelines (β=-3.01, p=0.01) and higher age group (50-59: -4.75, p=0.001; 60+: -4.38, p=0.01) were associated with greater fatigue. An interaction plot showed that differences in fatigue for those meeting or not meeting physical activity guidelines is largest among Black women under age 50.

Conclusions: Meeting physical activity guidelines was associated with greater cancer-related fatigue, which was most pronounced for those under age 50. Interventions for Black breast cancer survivors with cancer-related fatigue should consider physical activities that can be integrated into existing tasks and provide age-appropriate resources to address physical and emotional fatigue domains.

Keywords: breast cancer; fatigue; age; Black/African-American; physical activity

Citation Format: Melody A. Swen, Amandeep Mann, Raheem Paxton, Lorraine T. Dean. Cancer-related fatigue and physical activity vary by age for black women with a history of breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4215. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-4215

Abstract 4217: Consumer credit, cancer treatment, and health among women with a history of breast cancer

Background: Breast cancer treatment may represent an economic shock that may be influenced by, or may influence a cancer survivor’s socio-economic position (SEP). Financial toxicity or economic burden due to cancer treatment and treatment’s adverse effects may be reflected in one’s consumer credit ratings; however, credit’s contribution to individual health for cancer survivors or those managing long-term adverse effects of cancer treatment has not been evaluated. This analysis examined associations between self-rated health outcomes of women with a history of breast cancer, type of cancer treatment, and presence of breast cancer-related lymphedema, a persistent adverse effect of treatment, and consumer credit rating.

Methods: From May to September 2015, 129 women from Pennsylvania and New Jersey were enrolled in the PAL Social and Economic Quality of Life cross-sectional study. All participants had a history of breast cancer, and completed a survey of: demographics, SEP, co-morbidities, SF-12 self-rated health, psychosocial stress, adjuvant cancer treatments (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation), breast cancer-related lymphedema symptoms, and credit quality (5-point scale self-reported as poor to excellent). Multivariable linear regression measured the association between credit and health.

Results: Mean respondent age was 64, with 38.2% reporting excellent and 37.4% reporting very good/good credit. Participants completed cancer treatment on average 11.5 years ago. After adjusting for demographics and SEP, good credit was associated with a 4.5 (p=0.009) point increase in composite physical health t-score and -1.13 (p=0.02) decrease in psychosocial stress compared to women with poor credit, but was not associated with type of cancer treatment or lymphedema.

Conclusion: While credit was associated with self-rated health for women with an average 11.5 year history of breast cancer, current credit quality did not appear to be associated with type of cancer treatment previously received or with the presence of lymphedema, a persistent adverse effect of cancer treatment. It is still possible that cancer treatment may have influenced credit close to time of treatment, and credit was able to rebound since that time. Future work should test causal pathways between credit and health outcomes after cancer diagnosis.

Citation Format: Lorraine T. Dean, Kathryn H. Schmitz, Kevin Frick, Lauren Nicholas, Yuehan Zhang, SV Subramanian, Kala Visvanathan. Consumer credit, cancer treatment, and health among women with a history of breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4217. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-4217

Neighborhood Social Capital in Relation to Late HIV Diagnosis, Linkage to HIV Care, and HIV Care Engagement

High neighborhood social capital could facilitate earlier diagnosis of HIV and higher rates of linkage and HIV care engagement. Multivariate analysis was used to examine whether social capital (social cohesion, social participation, and collective engagement) in 2004/2006 was associated with lower 5-year average (2007-2011) prevalence of (a) late HIV diagnosis, (b) linked to HIV care, and (c) engaged in HIV care within Philadelphia, PA, United States. Census tracts (N = 332). Higher average neighborhood social participation was associated with higher prevalence of late HIV diagnosis (b = 1.37, se = 0.32, p < 0.001), linked to HIV care (b = 1.13, se = 0.20, p < 0.001) and lower prevalence of engaged in HIV care (b = -1.16, se = 0.30, p < 0.001). Higher collective engagement was associated with lower prevalence of linked to HIV care (b = -0.62, se = 0.32, p < 0.05).The findings of different directions of associations among social capital indicators and HIV-related outcomes underscore the need for more nuanced research on the topic that include longitudinal assessment across key populations.

Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism by Type of Gynecologic Malignancy and Surgical Modality in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program

BACKGROUND

Women with gynecologic cancer are at higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to malignancy, pelvic surgery, increased age, and frequently comorbidities. The rate of VTE among different gynecologic cancers and relative to benign gynecologic surgeries has not been reported in a nationally representative cohort.

METHODS

Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, gynecologic surgeries were identified retrospectively from 2006 to 2012. Clinical characteristics, surgical procedures, and 30-day postoperative complications were abstracted. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed.

RESULTS

Of all gynecologic surgeries (n = 104,368), 11,427 were performed for malignancy: 2.7% (n = 2800) for ovarian cancer, 6.8% (n = 7114) for uterine cancer, 1.0% (n = 1026) for cervical cancer, and 0.5%(n = 487) for vulvar cancer. 202 (1.8%) patients experienced a VTE. Ovarian cancer had a deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism rates of 1.6% and 1.5% compared with uterine cancer, 0.8% and 0.8%, respectively. Ovarian cancer patients were 1.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19-2.65) times more likely to have a deep venous thrombosis and 1.7 (95% CI, 1.11-2.51) times more likely to have a pulmonary embolism than patients with uterine cancer. Compared with all gynecologic cancer surgeries, ovarian cancer patients were 1.5 times more likely to have a VTE (95% CI, 1.10-2.16). Patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery were 64% less likely to have a VTE regardless of malignancy site; however, if they had disseminated disease, they remained at higher risk of VTE (odds ratio, 5.96; P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Of gynecologic cancer surgeries, ovarian cancer patients had the highest rate of VTE. Venous thromboembolism rates were lower in those who had minimally invasive surgery but remained higher in those with disseminated disease.

Commercially available lifestyle modification program: randomized controlled trial addressing heart and bone health in BRCA1/2+ breast cancer survivors after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy

PURPOSE

The goal of this RCT was to examine the efficacy and safety of a web-based program to improve cardiovascular and bone health outcomes, among 35 BRCA1/2+ breast cancer survivors who underwent prophylactic oophorectomy and thus experienced premature surgical menopause.

METHODS

A 12-month commercially available web-based lifestyle modification program (Precision Nutrition Coaching) was utilized. Cardiovascular fitness, dietary intake, leisure time activity, body composition, bone mineral density, bone structure, and muscle strength were assessed.

RESULTS

Average adherence to all program components was 74.8 %. Women in the intervention group maintained their cardiovascular fitness level over the 12 months (1.1 ± 7.9 %), while the control group significantly decreased fitness capacity (-4.0 ± 7.5 %). There was a significant difference between groups in percent change of whole body bone area (-0.8 ± 2.5 control and 0.5 ± 1.30 intervention). We also observed decreased BMI (-4.7 ± 6.2 %) and fat mass (-8.6 ± 12.7 %) in the intervention group due to significant concomitant decreases in caloric intake and increases in caloric expenditure. The control group demonstrated decreased caloric intake and decreased lean tissue mass.

CONCLUSIONS

In this population at high risk for detrimental cardiovascular and bone outcomes, a commercially available lifestyle intervention program mitigated a decline in cardiovascular health, improved bone health, and decreased weight through fat loss.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Precision Nutrition Coaching has shown benefit in breast cancer survivors for reduced risk of deleterious cardiovascular and bone outcomes.

Post-treatment problems of African American breast cancer survivors

PURPOSE

African American breast cancer survivors (AABCS) have a lower survival rate across all disease stages (79 %) compared with White survivors (92 %) and often have more aggressive forms of breast cancer requiring multimodality treatment, so they could experience a larger burden of post-treatment quality of life (QOL) problems. This paper reports a comprehensive assessment of the number, severity, and domains of problems faced by AABCS within 5 years after treatment completion and identifies subgroups at risk for these problems.

METHODS

A population-based random sample was obtained from the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry of African American females over 18 years of age who completed primary treatment for breast cancer in the past 5 years. A mailed survey was used to document survivorship problems.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-seven AABCS completed the survey. The median number of survivor problems reported was 15. Exploratory factor analysis of the problem scale revealed four domains: emotional problems, physical problems, lack of resources, and sexuality problems. Across problem domains, younger age, more comorbid conditions, and greater medical mistrust were risk factors for more severe problems.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that AABCS experienced significant problem burden in the early years after diagnosis and treatment. In addition to emotional and physical problem domains that were documented in previous research, two problem domains unique to AABCS included lack of resources and sexuality concerns. At risk groups should be targeted for intervention. The study results reported in this manuscript will inform future research to address problems of AABCS as they make the transition from cancer patient to cancer survivor.

Great expectations: racial differences in outcome expectations for a weight lifting intervention among black and white breast cancer survivors with or without lymphedema

BACKGROUND

Black breast cancer survivors are less likely to engage in physical activity than are White survivors. This is unfortunate because physical activity may be especially beneficial given Black breast cancer survivors' higher rates of obesity and adverse treatment effects related to obesity, such as breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). The analysis explored outcome expectations for a weight lifting intervention by sedentary Black or White female breast cancer survivors and assessed the role of BCRL on outcome expectations for exercise.

METHODS

Chi-squared tests compared mean outcome expectation values for Black and White breast cancer survivors who completed baseline surveys for the Physical Activity and Lymphedema trial (n = 281). With race as the independent variable, multivariable analysis compared results for women without BCRL with those with BCRL, separately.

RESULTS

Across the entire sample, Black survivors (n = 90) had significantly higher (p < 0.05) outcome expectations than White survivors (n = 191) for improvements in sleep, appearance, mental health, affect, energy, and eating habits, with small to moderate effect sizes. When stratified by BCRL status, differences by race were robust only among those with BCRL.

CONCLUSIONS

Black cancer survivors had greater expectations than White cancer survivors for how a weight lifting intervention would improve their physical and mental states; these differences were most apparent among women with BCRL. Improving outcomes in Black breast cancer survivors rests on the development of interventions that are appropriately tailored to address the expectations of this population and account for differences in persistent adverse effects of cancer such as BCRL. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Race-based disparities in loss of functional independence after hysterectomy for uterine cancer

PURPOSE

Racial disparities in uterine cancer-related outcomes have been reported. The goal of this study was to determine if race, pre-operative body mass index (BMI), and medical comorbidities are predictors of loss of functional independence after hysterectomy for uterine cancer.

METHODS

Loss of independence was defined as a change from pre-operative functional independence, to a post-operative requirement of discharge to a post-care facility, or death within the first 30 days following uterine cancer surgery. Demographic factors, comorbidities, BMI, intra-operative and post-operative outcomes, and discharge status were abstracted from the 2011 and 2012 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). Statistical analyses included multivariable logistic regression and Wald tests for interaction.

RESULTS

A total of 4005 patients had uterine cancer and were functionally independent pre-operatively. After adjusting for clinical features and comorbidities, Black women were not significantly more likely to lose functional independence than non-Black women. However, a significant interaction (OR = 1.17, p < 0.001) was found between race and BMI for loss of functional independence. Interaction plots revealed worsening functional outcomes for Black women with BMI >40 but not in non-Blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

The interaction suggests a 17 % increased odds of losing independence for each unit of BMI difference for Black uterine cancer patients, or 170 % increased odds of losing independence for a 10-point increase in BMI, given a linear association. To reduce the likelihood of losing post-operative functional independence, Black, high-BMI patients with or at risk for uterine cancer may especially benefit from weight loss or interventions to optimize physical function.

Race or Resource? BMI, Race, and Other Social Factors as Risk Factors for Interlimb Differences among Overweight Breast Cancer Survivors with Lymphedema

Introduction. High BMI is a risk factor for upper body breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) onset. Black cancer survivors are more likely to have high BMI than White cancer survivors. While observational analyses suggest up to 2.2 times increased risk of BCRL onset for Black breast cancer survivors, no studies have explored race or other social factors that may affect BCRL severity, operationalized by interlimb volume difference (ILD). Materials and Methods. ILD was measured by perometry for 296 overweight (25 > BMI < 50) Black (n = 102) or White (n = 194) breast cancer survivors (>6 months from treatment) in the WISER Survivor trial. Multivariable linear regression examined associations between social and physical factors and ILD. Results. Neither Black race (-0.26, p = 0.89) nor BMI (0.22, p = 0.10) was associated with ILD. Attending college (-4.89, p = 0.03) was the strongest factor associated with ILD, followed by having more lymph nodes removed (4.75, p = 0.01), >25% BCRL care adherence (4.10, p = 0.01), and years since treatment (0.55, p < 0.001). Discussion. Neither race nor BMI was associated with ILD among overweight cancer survivors. Education, a proxy for resource level, was the strongest factor associated with greater ILD. Tailoring physical activity and weight loss interventions designed to address BCRL severity by resource rather than race should be considered.

The prescription or proscription of exercise in endometrial cancer care

OBJECTIVE

To determine the proportion of endometrial cancer patients who can be safely prescribed community/home based unsupervised exercise. A better understanding of the physical dysfunction secondary to comorbidities among endometrial cancer patients would assist clinicians in delineating which patients to send to medically-based supervised rehabilitation versus a community/home based unsupervised exercise program.

METHODS

A literature review identified health issues which could impede patients from successfully completing an unsupervised exercise program after a cancer diagnosis. The charts of 479 endometrial cancer patients treated between 2006 and 2010 were reviewed to determine the health status at the time of diagnosis and the type and percentage of health-issues that could preclude an unsupervised exercise program in this population. Univariable modeling and multivariable modeling were used to evaluate the association of demographic, cancer-related characteristics and clinical variables with ability to participate in unsupervised exercise.

RESULTS

We determined that 14.2% of endometrial cancer patients were able to exercise without supervision based on their health status at the time of diagnosis. After excluding common comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes and morbid obesity) from the identified health-issues, the proportion increased to 20.5%. Older at diagnosis (P=0.007) and higher BMI (P<0.001) are more likely to exclude patients from community/home based unsupervised exercise program.

CONCLUSIONS

Only 14.2% to 20.5% of endometrial cancer patients were deemed able to exercise without supervision based on their health status at diagnosis. Our data suggest that approximately 80% of endometrial cancer patients would benefit from a referral to a medically-based supervised exercise program.

Black breast cancer survivors experience greater upper extremity disability

Over one-third of breast cancer survivors experience upper extremity disability. Black women present with factors associated with greater upper extremity disability, including: increased body mass index (BMI), more advanced disease stage at diagnosis, and varying treatment type compared with Whites. No prior research has evaluated the relationship between race and upper extremity disability using validated tools and controlling for these factors. Data were drawn from a survey study among 610 women with stage I-III hormone receptor positive breast cancer. The disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (QuickDASH) is an 11-item self-administered questionnaire that has been validated for breast cancer survivors to assess global upper extremity function over the past 7 days. Linear regression and mediation analysis estimated the relationships between race, BMI and QuickDASH score, adjusting for demographics and treatment types. Black women (n = 98) had 7.3 points higher average QuickDASH scores than White (n = 512) women (p < 0.001). After adjusting for BMI, age, education, cancer treatment, months since diagnosis, and aromatase inhibitor status, Black women had an average 4-point (95 % confidence interval 0.18-8.01) higher QuickDASH score (p = 0.04) than White women. Mediation analysis suggested that BMI attenuated the association between race and disability by 40 %. Even several years post-treatment, Black breast cancer survivors had greater upper extremity disability, which was partially mediated by higher BMIs. Close monitoring of high BMI Black women may be an important step in reducing disparities in cancer survivorship. More research is needed on the relationship between race, BMI, and upper extremity disability.

Can you party your way to better health? A propensity score analysis of block parties and health

While other indicators of social capital have been linked to health, the role of block parties on health in Black neighborhoods and on Black residents is understudied. Block parties exhibit several features of bonding social capital and are present in nearly 90% of Philadelphia's predominantly Black neighborhoods. This analysis investigated: (1) whether or not block parties are an indicator of bonding social capital in Black neighborhoods; (2) the degree to which block parties might be related to self-rated health in the ways that other bonding social indicators are related to health; and (3) whether or not block parties are associated with average self-rated health for Black residents particularly. Using census tract-level indicators of bonding social capital and records of block parties from 2003 to 2008 for 381 Philadelphia neighborhoods (defined by census tracts), an ecological-level propensity score was generated to assess the propensity for a block party, adjusting for population demographics, neighborhood characteristics, neighborhood resources and violent crime. Results indicate that in multivariable regression, block parties were associated with increased bonding social capital in Black neighborhoods; however, the calculation of the average effect of the treatment on the treated (ATT) within each propensity score strata showed no effect of block parties on average self-rated health for Black residents. Block parties may be an indicator of bonding social capital in Philadelphia's predominantly Black neighborhoods, but this analysis did not show a direct association between block parties and self-rated health for Black residents. Further research should consider what other health outcomes or behaviors block parties may be related to and how interventionists can leverage block parties for health promotion.

Abstract C31: Racial/ethnic differences in cancer survivorship: The example of breast cancer-related lymphedema severity

Introduction: Breast-cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) is a persistent adverse outcome of cancer treatment that affects the physical health and quality of life of up to 1 in 3 of the 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the US. For those with BCRL, known predictors of progression include BMI, type of surgery and radiation treatment, each of which is independently associated with race/ethnicity. Observational studies have found that Black/African-American women are more likely than Whites to develop BCRL, but no studies have explored the association of race/ethnicity with BCRL severity.

Method: The WISER Survivor Trial has collected baseline data from 149 overweight (BMI≥25) women with upper body BCRL (61% White; 39% African-American). Ordinal logistic regression modeling was used to explore the associations of known predictors of lymphedema progression and race/ethnicity with lymphedema grade (0-3).

Results: In univariate analysis, higher age at breast cancer surgery, being African-American, and having had chemotherapy or radiation therapy were significantly associated with higher lymphedema grade. Multivariate analysis revealed that race mediates the relationship between BMI and lymphedema grade such that being African-American AND having an elevated BMI is associated with higher lymphedema grade while elevated BMI is not associated with higher lymphedema grade among White women, such that at equivalent BMI, African-American women were 20% more likely to have a higher lymphedema severity (OR=1.20 [1.00, 1.44]; p=0.043).

Discussion: These findings point to a need for clinicians to be aware of increased risk of lymphedema for overweight African-American female breast cancer survivors. The cause of the observed interaction of African-American race/ethnicity and BMI on lymphedema severity remains to be elucidated. Previous studies have observed a relationship of higher lymphedema grade with higher costs to care for the condition, as well as worse functional ability of the upper body. Therefore, increased odds of higher lymphedema grade among African-American women with elevated BMI could contribute to a meaningful difference in the burden of breast cancer survivorship for this underserved minority population. To further elucidate this relationship, prospective collection on health-care costs for breast cancer survivors with lymphedema is warranted. This work has implications to affect care for and quality of life of up to 1 in 3 of the 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the US who have BCRL.

Citation Format: Lorraine T. Dean, Taehoon Kim, Matthew Herling, Justin Brown, J Sanford Schwartz, Kathryn Schmitz. Racial/ethnic differences in cancer survivorship: The example of breast cancer-related lymphedema severity. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C31. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-C31

Effect of HPV on Posttreatment Weight in Head and Neck Squamous-Cell Carcinoma: A Pilot Study

Objectives:

Unlike head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) caused by tobacco and alcohol use, human papillomavirus (HPV)–related HNSCC has better survival outcomes. The aim of our study was to determine if post-treatment weight change was different between HPV positive and negative oral tongue and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPC) patients.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study. Oral tongue and OPC patients with initial surgery or radiation/chemotherapy in 2010 were identified using the University of Pennsylvania Tumor Registry. Those with p16 testing as a surrogate marker for high-risk HPV were enrolled. Patient characteristics at diagnosis were collected, and the outcomes were mean weights at pretreatment and 0-6, 6-12, 12-18, and 18-24 month posttreatment visits.

Results:

We identified 50 survivors with p16 testing and follow-up weights. Seventy-four percent (n = 37) were p16-positive. Compared with p16-negative patients, p16-positive patients were significantly more likely to be younger (56 ± 11 vs 72 ± 12, P = .0001), at AJCC TNM stage 4 (72% vs 27%, P = .010), and have higher mean weights at pretreatment and all posttreatment visits ( P < .05). Mean weights at pretreatment and posttreatment 0-6, 6-12, 12-18, and 18-24 month follow-up visits were 164 ± 40, 160 ± 40, 159 ± 39, 160 ± 38, and 154 ± 35 pounds, respectively, in p16-negative patients, but were 194 ± 47, 171 ± 38, 172 ± 39, 174 ± 44, and 187 ± 53 pounds, respectively, in p16-positive patients, which improved from 0-6 to 18-24 month visits.

Conclusions:

Although the traditional post-treatment weight loss was still seen in p16-negative patients, p16-positive patients were able to gain weight during 24-month post-treatment follow-up after the initial rapid posttreatment weight loss.

Getting Black Men to Undergo Prostate Cancer Screening: The Role of Social Capital

Despite higher rates of prostate cancer-related mortality and later stage of prostate cancer diagnosis, Black/African American men are significantly less likely than non-Hispanic White men to use early detection screening tools, like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer. Lower screening rates may be due, in part, to controversy over the value of prostate cancer screenings as part of routine preventive care for men, but Black men represent a high-risk group for prostate cancer that may still benefit from PSA testing. Exploring the role of social factors that might be associated with PSA testing can increase knowledge of what might promote screening behaviors for prostate cancer and other health conditions for which Black men are at high risk. Using multilevel logistic regression, this study analyzed self-report lifetime use of PSA test for 829 Black men older than 45 years across 381 Philadelphia census tracts. This study included individual demographic and aggregated social capital data from the Public Health Management Corporation's 2004, 2006, and 2008 waves of the Community Health Database, and sociodemographic characteristics from the 2000 U.S. Census. Each unit increase in community participation was associated with a 3 to 3.5 times greater likelihood of having had a PSA test (odds ratio = 3.35). Findings suggest that structural forms of social capital may play a role in screening behaviors for Black men in Philadelphia. A better understanding of the mechanism underlying the link between social capital and screening behaviors can inform how researchers and interventionists develop tools to promote screening for those who need it.

Impact of obesity on cancer survivorship and the potential relevance of race and ethnicity

Evidence that obesity is associated with cancer incidence and mortality is compelling. By contrast, the role of obesity in cancer survival is less well understood. There is inconsistent support for the role of obesity in breast cancer survival, and evidence for other tumor sites is scant. The variability in findings may be due in part to comorbidities associated with obesity itself rather than with cancer, but it is also possible that obesity creates a physiological setting that meaningfully alters cancer treatment efficacy. In addition, the effects of obesity at diagnosis may be distinct from the effects of weight change after diagnosis. Obesity and related comorbid conditions may also increase risk for common adverse treatment effects, including breast cancer-related lymphedema, fatigue, poor health-related quality of life, and worse functional health. Racial and ethnic groups with worse cancer survival outcomes are also the groups for whom obesity and related comorbidities are more prevalent, but findings from the few studies that have addressed these complexities are inconsistent. We outline a broad theoretical framework for future research to clarify the specifics of the biological-social-environmental feedback loop for the combined and independent contributions of race, comorbid conditions, and obesity on cancer survival and adverse treatment effects. If upstream issues related to comorbidities, race, and ethnicity partly explain the purported link between obesity and cancer survival outcomes, these factors should be among those on which interventions are focused to reduce the burden of cancer.

Instituting a smoke-free policy for city recreation centers and playgrounds, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 2010

Background

In the United States, more than 600 municipalities have smoke-free parks, and more than 100 have smoke-free beaches. Nevertheless, adoption of outdoor smoke-free policies has been slow in certain regions. Critical to widespread adoption is the sharing of knowledge about the policy development and implementation process. In this article, we describe our experience in making City of Philadelphia recreation centers and playgrounds smoke-free.

Community Context

Of the 10 largest US cities, Philadelphia has among the highest rates of adult and youth smoking. Our objectives for an outdoor smoke-free policy included protecting against secondhand smoke, supporting a normative message that smoking is harmful, motivating smokers to quit, and mitigating tobacco-related sanitation costs.

Methods

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Department of Parks and Recreation engaged civic leaders, agency staff, and community stakeholders in the following steps: 1) making the policy case, 2) vetting policy options and engaging stakeholders, and 3) implementing policy. Near-term policy impacts were assessed through available data sources.

Outcome

More than 220 recreation centers, playgrounds, and outdoor pools became smoke-free through a combined mayoral executive order and agency regulation. Support for the policy was high. Estimates suggest a policy reach of 3.6 million annual visitors and almost 850 acres of new smoke-free municipal property.

Interpretation

Localities can successfully implement outdoor smoke-free policies with careful planning and execution. Such policies hold great potential for reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, promoting nonsmoking norms, and providing additional motivation for residents to quit smoking.

Community-generated recommendations regarding the urban nutrition and tobacco environments: a photo-elicitation study in Philadelphia

Introduction

Overweight, obesity, and tobacco use are major preventable causes of disability, disease, and death. In 2010, 25% of Philadelphia adults smoked, and 66% were overweight or obese. To address these health threats, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health launched Get Healthy Philly, an initiative to improve the city’s nutrition, physical activity, and tobacco environments. The objective of this assessment was to identify residents’ perspectives on threats to health and opportunities for change in the local food and tobacco environments.

Methods

Participants (N = 48) took photographs to document their concerns regarding Philadelphia’s food and tobacco environments and participated in photo-elicitation interviews. We coded photographs and interview transcripts and identified key themes.

Results

Participants proposed interventions for nutrition 4 times more often than for tobacco. Participants spontaneously articulated the need for multilevel change consistent with the ecological model of health behavior, including changes to policies (food assistance program provisions to encourage healthful purchases), local and school environments (more healthful corner store inventories and school meals), and individual knowledge and behavior (healthier food purchases). Participants often required interviewer prompting to discuss tobacco, and they suggested interventions including changes in advertising (a local environmental concern) and cigarette taxes (a policy concern).

Conclusion

Participants were well versed in the relevance to health of nutrition and physical activity and the need for multilevel interventions. Their responses suggested community readiness for change. In contrast, participants’ more limited comments regarding tobacco suggested that prevention and control of tobacco use were perceived as less salient public health concerns.

Neighborhood racial composition, social capital and black all-cause mortality in Philadelphia

Neighborhood characteristics such as racial composition and social capital have been widely linked to health outcomes, but the direction of the relationship between these characteristics and health of minority populations is controversial. Given this uncertainty, we examined the relationship between neighborhood racial composition, social capital, and black all-cause mortality between 1997 and 2000 in 68 Philadelphia neighborhoods. Data from the U.S. Census, the Philadelphia Health Management Corporation's 2004 Southeast Pennsylvania Community Health Survey, and city vital statistics were linked by census tract and then aggregated into neighborhoods, which served as the unit of analysis. Neighborhood social capital was measured by a summative score of respondent assessments of: the livability of their community, the likelihood of neighbors helping one another, their sense of belonging, and the trustworthiness of their neighbors. After adjustment for the sociodemographic characteristics of neighborhood residents, black age-adjusted all-cause mortality was significantly higher in neighborhoods that had lower proportion of black residents. Neighborhood social capital was also associated with lower black mortality, with the strongest relationship seen for neighborhoods in the top half of social capital scores. There was a significant interaction between racial composition and social capital, so that the effect of social capital on mortality was greatest in neighborhoods with a higher proportion of black residents and the effect of racial composition was greatest in neighborhoods with high social capital. These results demonstrate that age-adjusted all-cause black mortality is lowest in mostly black neighborhoods with high levels of social capital in Philadelphia.

Differences in the patterns of health care system distrust between blacks and whites

CONTEXT

Although health care-related distrust may contribute to racial disparities in health and health care in the US, current evidence about racial differences in distrust is often conflicting, largely limited to measures of physician trust, and rarely linked to multidimensional trust or distrust.

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that racial differences in health care system distrust are more closely linked to values distrust than to competence distrust.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional telephone survey.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred fifty-five individuals (144 black, 92 white) who had been treated in primary care practices or the emergency department of a large, urban Mid-Atlantic health system.

PRIMARY MEASURES

Race, scores on the overall health care system distrust scale and on the 2 distrust subscales, values distrust and competence distrust.

RESULTS

In univariate analysis, overall health care system distrust scores were slightly higher among blacks than whites (25.8 vs 24.1, p = .05); however, this difference was driven by racial differences in values distrust scores (15.4 vs 13.8, p = .003) rather than in competence distrust scores (10.4 vs 10.3, p = .85). After adjustment for socioeconomic status, health/psychological status, and health care access, individuals in the top quartile of values distrust were significantly more likely to be black (odds ratio = 2.60, 95% confidence interval = 1.03-6.58), but there was no significant association between race and competence distrust.

CONCLUSIONS

Racial differences in health care system distrust are complex with far greater differences seen in the domain of values distrust than in competence distrust. This framework may be useful for explaining the mixed results of studies of race and health care-related distrust to date, for the design of future studies exploring the causes of racial disparities in health and health care, and for the development and testing of novel strategies for reducing these disparities.

Development of a revised Health Care System Distrust scale

CONTEXT

Growing evidence suggests that most forms of distrust are multidimensional, including domains of technical competence and value congruence. Prior measures of health care system distrust have not reflected this multidimensional structure and may be limiting research into the role of health care system distrust in health and health care in the US.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a revised a scale of health care system distrust.

DESIGN

Three phase study, including focus groups, pilot testing and a cross-sectional telephone survey.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 404 individuals recruited directly from the Greater Philadelphia area or through the University of Pennsylvania Health System.

RESULTS

Multilevel consensus coding of focus group transcripts identified 2 primary domains of competence and values with the values domain having subthemes of honesty, motives, and equity. Iterative testing of the initial 76 items led to a final scale of 9 items with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.83. Factor analysis demonstrated a 2-factor structure, corresponding to the domains of values and competence. The values subscale (5 items) had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.73 and the competence subscale (4 items) had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.77. These psychometric properties were similar among African Americans and Whites.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel 9-item scale of Health Care System Distrust with high reliability allows the assessment of the 2 primary domains of distrust (values and competence) and may facilitate research in this area.