Racial differences in medical mistrust among men diagnosed with prostate cancer

Trends in racial and ethnic disparities in health-related quality of life in older adults with lung cancer

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to quantitatively examine differences in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) by race/ethnicity among older adults with lung cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (SEER-MHOS) data set, we identified two cohorts of patients ≥65 years old with lung cancer diagnosed from 2004 to 2015 who completed the health outcomes survey within 36 months pre- and post-diagnosis. The Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) were used to measure HRQOL. Racial/ethnic groups were White, Black, Asian, and Hispanic. Univariate (UVA) and multivariable (MVA) linear regression analyses with pairwise contrasts assessed disparities among the racial/ethnic groups. MVA models were adjusted for sex, age, marital status, education, income, year diagnosed, comorbidity count, limitations in activities of daily living, national region, histology, and treatment type (post-diagnosis cohort only).

RESULTS

We identified 4025 patients in the pre-diagnosis cohort (White = 75.9 %, Asian = 6.3 %, Black = 8.7 %, and Hispanic = 6.1 %; stages I = 28.8 %, II = 8.9 %, III = 21.7 %, IV = 27.8 %, unknown = 12.7 %) and 2465 patients in the post-diagnosis cohort (White = 74.4 %, Asian = 7.8 %, Black = 8.8 %, and Hispanic = 5.8 %; stages I = 40.2 %, II = 14.1 %, III = 17.5 %, IV = 10.7 %, unknown = 17.5 %; treatment type surgery = 0.9 %, radiation = 46.5 %, radiation and surgery = 26.8 %, no radiation or surgery = 25.9 %). Upon pre-diagnosis cohort UVA, White and Asian patients had higher mean MCS scores than Black and Hispanic patients (51.3 and 52.7 vs 47.4 and 47.4, respectively; p < .001 and p < .001), White patients had higher mean PCS scores than Black patients (38.6 vs 36.0; p < .001), and Asian patients had higher mean PCS scores than White, Black, and Hispanic patients (40.7 vs 38.6, 36.0 and 37.5, respectively; p = .008, p < .001, and p = .005). On pre-diagnosis MVA, White and Asian patients had higher mean MCS scores than Hispanic patients (51.2 and 52.0, respectively, vs 47.2; p < .001). On pre-diagnosis MVA, Asian patients had higher mean PCS scores than White patients (52.0 and 51.2; p = .002).On post-diagnosis UVA, White and Asian patients had higher mean MCS scores than Black patients (48.9 and 48.9, respectively, vs 46.3; p = .006 and p = .042), White patients had higher mean MCS scores than Hispanic patients (48.9 vs 46.1; p = .015), White patients had higher mean PCS scores than Black patients (33.8 vs 31.9; p = .018), and Hispanic patients had higher mean PCS scores than Black patients (34.9 vs. 31.9; p = .019). On post-diagnosis MVA, race/ethnicity was no longer associated with differing MCS or PCS.

DISCUSSION

Among older patients with lung cancer, those identifying as White or Asian had higher pre-diagnosis mental HRQOL than Hispanic patients. However, HRQOL differences before diagnosis among all racial/ethnic groups were no longer significant after cancer diagnosis and treatment. Understanding these patterns of HRQOL can be used for more pointed initiatives to improve therapeutic strategy, compliance, goals of care, and treatment-related morbidity.

Community engagement for stakeholder and community trust in healthcare: Short-term evaluation findings from a nationwide initiative in Lao PDR

BACKGROUND

Trust remains a critical concept in healthcare provision, but little is known about the ability of health policy and interventions to stimulate more trusting relationships between communities and the health system. The CONNECT (Community Network Engagement for Essential Healthcare and COVID-19 Responses Through Trust) Initiative in Lao PDR provided an opportunity to assess the community-level impact of a trust-building community engagement approach.

METHODS

A mixed-method process evaluation was implemented from 10/2022-12/2023 among 14 diverse case study communities in four provinces across Lao PDR. Data collection involved two rounds of census surveys (3161 observations incl. panel data from 618 individuals) including an 8-item trust scale, 50 semi-structured interviews with villagers, and 50 contextualizing key informant interviews. The two data collection rounds were implemented before and three months after village-based CONNECT activities and helped discern impacts among activity participants, indirectly exposed villagers, and unexposed villagers in a difference-in-difference analysis.

RESULTS

Stakeholders attested strong support for the CONNECT Initiative although community-level retention of trust-related themes from the activities was limited. Quantitative data nevertheless showed that, at endline, the 8-item trust index (from [-8 to +8]) increased by 0.95 points from 4.44 to 5.39 and all trust indicators were universally higher. Difference-in-difference analysis showed that villagers exposed to the CONNECT activities had a 1.02-index-point higher trust index compared to unexposed villagers. Trust impacts improved gradually over time and were relatively more pronounced among men and ethnic minority groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The CONNECT Initiative had considerable direct and systemic effects on community members' trust in their local health centers in the short term, which arose from strong stakeholder mobilization and gradual institutional learning. Relational community engagement approaches have the potential to create important synergies in health policy and broader cross-sectorial strategies, but also require contextual grounding to identify locally relevant dimensions of trust.

Trust in healthcare: methodological and conceptual insights from mixed-method research in Lao People's Democratic Republic

BACKGROUND

Global health foregrounds trust as a key requirement for the achievement of international health initiatives, but it remains an elusive concept that is often mobilised without consideration of its dimensions, drivers and downstream behavioural consequences. This paper aims to contribute to the conceptual development and measurement of 'patient trust in primary healthcare' from the lower middle-income country perspective of rural Lao PDR.

METHODS

A two-phase mixed-method research design was implemented between January 2021 and April 2023. Phase 1 involved exploratory qualitative research to understand the local expressions and dimensions of patient trust in primary healthcare, with 25 semistructured interviews and 17 focus group discussions (120 participants) in eight villages in Bokeo Province. Phase 2 involved explanatory research to assess patterns of trust systematically at scale in 14 villages across four provinces, wherein 26 cognitive interviews, 17 expert interviews and non-participant community observations informed a community census survey with 1838 participants. We analysed qualitative data through content-oriented thematic analysis and developed an 8-item trust scale on that basis. Quantitative data analysis used descriptive statistical and regression analysis.

RESULTS

We found that trust in primary healthcare is readily understood and intrinsically valuable in rural Lao PDR. Key dimensions included communication, respectful care, relationship, fairness, integrity, reputation, assurance of treatment and competence. The survey highlighted that reputation, competence, integrity and respectful care had the lowest trust scores. Health centre operations predicted the local expressions of trust. The behavioural consequences of trust were limited to a positive statistical association with antenatal care uptake among pregnant women but outweighed by alternative measures that also captured the availability of healthcare facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the development of our quantitative trust scale offers a process model for future researchers. We conclude that interpersonal, institutional and service-related trust require more explicit recognition in health system development and integration into health policy.

Race differences in patient trust and distrust from audio-recorded cardiology encounters

OBJECTIVE

Many have reported racial disparities in self-reported trust in clinicians but have not directly assessed expressions of trust and distrust in physician-patient encounters. We created a codebook to examine racial differences in patient trust and distrust through audio-recorded cardiologist-patient interactions.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a randomized controlled trial of audio-recorded outpatient cardiology encounters (50 White and 51 Black patients). We created a codebook for trust and distrust that was applied to recordings between White cardiologists and White and Black patients. We assessed differences in trust, distrust, and guardedness while adjusting for patient age, sex, and first appointment with the cardiologist.

RESULTS

Compared to White patients, Black patients had significantly lower expressions of trust ([IRR] [95 % CI]: 0.59 [0.41, 0.84]) and a significantly lower mean guarded/open score ([β] [95 % CI] -0.38 [-0.71, -0.04]). There was no statistically significant association between race and odds of at least one distrustful expression (OR [95 % CI] 1.36 [0.37, 4.94]).

CONCLUSION AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

We found that coders can reliably identify patient expressions of trust and distrust rather than relying on problematic self-reported measures. Results suggest that White clinicians can improve their communication with Black patients to increase expressions of trust.

Uncovering Health-Care Disparities Through Patient Decisions in Lung Cancer Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Declining cancer surgery represents a conflict between patients' rights to autonomy and providers' perspectives of best practice. We hypothesize that, among patients with nonmetastatic lung cancer, patient demographics would be associated with different rates of declination of lung cancer surgery.

METHODS

Patients with nonmetastatic lung cancer from 2004 to 2018 in the National Cancer Database were identified. Patients were categorized into two groups based on surgical treatment: surgical resection and declined surgery. Patient characteristics were compared using bivariate and multivariate models to identify factors associated with surgical declination. Additionally, we performed subgroup analyses of cT1N0M0 patients with no comorbidities. Survival analysis done using multivariate cox analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

478,757 patients were identified. In a multivariate model, declining surgery was associated with increased age (odds ratio 1.09, 1.09-1.10), non-Hispanic Black race (odds ratio 1.95, 1.73-2.21), nonprivate insurance, and lower Socioeconomic Status. In a subgroup of cT1N0M0 patients with no comorbidities, declining surgery was associated with increasing age, non-Hispanic Black race, nonprivate insurance, and socioeconomic status. Patient's that declined surgery demonstrated lower overall survival when compared to patients that underwent surgical resection (5 y overall survival: declined surgery 40% versus underwent resection 72%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although early-stage lung cancer is potentially curable, many patients decline guideline-based surgery, and have worse overall survival. There are social and economic factors associated with patients declining lung cancer surgery. Providers have an ethical responsibility to understand the basis of patient's decision to decline recommended surgery and address endemic disparities related to race and access to care.

Disparities in time to prostate cancer treatment initiation before and after the Affordable Care Act

BACKGROUND

Delayed access to care may contribute to disparities in prostate cancer (PCa). The Affordable Care Act (ACA) aimed at increasing access and reducing healthcare disparities, but its impact on timely treatment initiation for PCa men is unknown.

METHODS

Men with intermediate- and high-risk PCa diagnosed 2010-2016 and treated with curative surgery or radiotherapy were identified in the National Cancer Database. Multivariable logistic regression modeled the effect of race and insurance type on treatment delay >180 days after diagnosis. Cochran-Armitage test measured annual trends in delays, and joinpoint regression assessed if 2014, the year the ACA became fully operationalized, was significant for inflection in crude rates of major delays.

RESULTS

Of 422,506 eligible men, 18,720 (4.4%) experienced >180-day delay in treatment initiation. Compared to White patients, Black (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.72-1.87, p < 0.001) and Hispanic (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.28-1.48, p < 0.001) patients had higher odds of delay. Compared to uninsured, those with Medicaid had no difference in odds of delay (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.84-1.06, p = 0.31), while those with private insurance (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.52-0.63, p < 0.001) or Medicare (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.58-0.70, p < 0.001) had lower odds of delay. Mean time to treatment significantly increased from 2010 to 2016 across all racial/ethnic groups (trend p < 0.001); 2014 was associated with a significant inflection for increase in rates of major delays.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-White and Medicaid-insured men with localized PCa are at risk of treatment delays in the United States. Treatment delays have been consistently rising, particularly after implementation of the ACA.

Medical Mistrust Among a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Sample of Sexual Minority Men

Purpose: Medical mistrust is a barrier to health care utilization and is associated with suboptimal health outcomes. Research on mistrust among sexual minority men (SMM) is limited and largely focuses on Black SMM and HIV, with few studies assessing mistrust among SMM of other race/ethnicities. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in medical mistrust among SMM by race. Methods: From February 2018 to February 2019, a mixed-methods study examined the health-related beliefs and experiences of young SMM in New York City. The Group-Based Medical Mistrust Scale (GBMMS) was used to measure medical mistrust related to race, and a modified version of the scale assessed mistrust related to one's "sexual/gender minority" status (Group-Based Medical Mistrust Scale-Sexual/Gender Minority [GBMMS-SGM]). With an analytic sample of 183 cisgender SMM, a one-way multivariate analysis of variance was used to examine differences in GBMMS and GBMMS-SGM scores by race/ethnicity [Black, Latinx, White, "Another Racial Group(s)"]. Results: There were significantly different GBMMS scores by race, with participants of color reporting higher levels of race-based medical mistrust than White participants. This finding is supported by effect sizes ranging from moderate to large. Differences in GBMMS-SGM scores by race were borderline; however, the effect size for Black and White participants' GBMMS-SGM scores was moderate, indicating that higher GBMMS-SGM scores among Black participants is meaningful. Conclusion: Multilevel strategies should be used to earn the trust of minoritized populations, such as addressing both historical and ongoing discrimination, moving beyond implicit bias trainings, and strengthening the recruitment and retention of minoritized health care professionals.

Access to definitive treatment and survival for intermediate-risk and high-risk prostate cancer at hospital systems serving health disparity populations

INTRODUCTION

Although socioeconomic and racial disparities in prostate cancer (CaP) have been attributed to patient-level and physician-level factors, there is growing interest in investigating the role of the facility of care in driving cancer disparities. We sought to examine the receipt of guideline-concordant definitive treatment, time to treatment initiation (TTI), and overall survival (OS) for men with CaP receiving care at hospital systems serving health disparity populations (HSDPs).

METHODS

We retrospective analyzed the National Cancer Database (2004-2016). We identified men with intermediate-risk or high-risk CaP eligible for definitive treatment. The primary outcomes were receipt of definitive treatment and TTI within 90 days of diagnosis. The secondary outcome was OS. We defined HSDPs as minority-serving hospitals-facilities in the highest decile of proportion of non-Hispanic Black (NHB) or Hispanic cancer patients-and/or high-burden safety-net hospitals-facilities in the highest quartile of proportion of underinsured patients. We used mixed-effect models with facility-level random intercept to compare outcomes between HSDPs and non-HSDPs among the entire cohort and among men who received definitive treatment.

RESULTS

We included 968 non-HSDPs (72.2%) and 373 HSDPs (27.8%) facilities. Treatment at HSDPs was associated with lower adjusted odds of receipt of definitive treatment (aOR 0.64; 95% CI 0.57-0.71; P < 0.001), lower odds of TTI within 90 days of diagnosis (aOR 0.74; 95% CI 0.68-0.79; P < 0.001), and worse OS (aHR 1.05; 95% CI 1.02-1.09; P = .003) when accounting for covariates. However, no difference was found in OS if patients received definitive treatment (aHR 1.03; 95% CI 0.99-1.07; P = 0.1). NHB men at HSDPs had worse outcomes than NHB men treated at non-HSDPs as well as NHW men treated at HSDPs.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated at HSDPs were less likely to receive timely definitive treatment and had worse OS, independent of their race. NHB men have worse outcomes than NHW at HSDPs. Thus, NHB men with CaP are doubly disadvantaged since they are more likely to be treated at hospitals with worse outcomes and have worse outcomes than other patients at those same institutions.

Testing Vicarious Experiences as Antecedents of Medical Mistrust: A Survey of Black and White Americans

In response to recent calls to examine medical mistrust antecedents, the present study investigated the influence of negative healthcare (personal, vicarious interpersonal, vicarious media) and racial discrimination (personal, vicarious interpersonal, vicarious media) experiences on medical mistrust, and whether these relationships were mediated by perceived racism and perceived financial corruption in healthcare. Multigroup structural equation modeling was utilized to test the model using a cross-sectional survey of Black and White adults. Personal negative healthcare experiences and vicarious media racial discrimination experiences were directly related to medical mistrust for Black and White participants. Additionally, personal negative healthcare experiences exerted indirect effects through both perceived racism in healthcare and perceived financial corruption in healthcare. Vicarious media racial discrimination experiences exerted indirect effects through perceived financial corruption for both Black and White participants and through perceived racism for Black participants. Finally, both types of vicarious interpersonal experiences and racial discrimination experiences exerted indirect effects through perceived racism for White participants. The findings have implications for medical mistrust scholarship going forward. It is necessary to acknowledge the role vicarious experiences plays in medical mistrust antecedents, which may include recognizing the impact of news depictions of racial discrimination on patients' behaviors. Additionally, there is a need to further investigate the role of perceived financial corruption in healthcare in medical mistrust.

In pursuit of equity in cancer care: moving beyond the Affordable Care Act

Although Medicaid Expansion under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been associated with many improvements for patients with cancer, Snyder et al. provide evidence demonstrating the persistence of racial disparities in cancer. This Editorial describes why insurance coverage alone does not ensure access to health care, highlights various manifestations of structural racism that constitute barriers to access beyond the direct costs of care, and calls for not just equality, but equity, in cancer care.

Navigation programs relevant for African American men with prostate cancer: a scoping review protocol

BACKGROUND

The excess incidence and mortality due to prostate cancer that impacts African American men constitutes the largest of all cancer disparities. Patient navigation is a patient-centered healthcare system intervention to eliminate barriers to timely, high-quality care across the cancer continuum and improves health outcomes among vulnerable patients. However, little is known regarding the extent to which navigation programs include cultural humility to address prostate cancer disparities among African American men. We present a scoping review protocol of an in-depth examination of navigation programs in prostate cancer care-including navigation activities/procedures, training, and management-with a special focus on cultural context and humility for African American men to achieve health equity.

METHODS

We will conduct comprehensive searches of the literature in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL Complete, using keywords and index terms (Mesh and Emtree) within the three main themes: prostate cancer, patient navigation, and African American men. We will also conduct a search of the gray literature, hand-searching, and reviewing references of included papers and conference abstracts. In a two-phase approach, two authors will independently screen titles and abstracts, and full-text based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. All study designs will be included that present detailed data about the elements of navigation programs, including intervention content, navigator training, and/or management. Data will be extracted from included studies, and review findings will be synthesized and summarized.

DISCUSSION

A scoping review focused on cultural humility in patient navigation within the context of eliminating disparities in PCa care among African American men does not yet exist. This review will synthesize existing evidence of patient navigation programs for African American prostate cancer patients and the inclusion of cultural humility. Results will inform the development and implementation of future programs to meet the unique needs of vulnerable prostate cancer patients in safety net settings.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021221412.

Association of race with receipt of definitive therapy for high risk prostate cancer in older men

OBJECTIVES

Black men are more likely to die of prostate cancer (PCa) than White men. Whether this difference is driven by biological versus sociodemographic and access to care differences is actively investigated. However, studies that have highlighted racial disparities in PCa outcomes have been poorly represented by elderly men, a notoriously undertreated group. Herein, we evaluated use of curative treatment between Black and White elderly men with aggressive PCa in a large US database.

METHODS

Men ≥80 years diagnosed with National Comprehensive Cancer Network-defined high risk PCa between 2004 and 2016 were analyzed from the National Cancer Database. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the effect of race and sociodemographic factors on receipt of definitive therapy (surgery or radiation +/- androgen deprivation therapy [ADT]) versus non-definitive therapy (ADT alone or observation) in inverse probability weighted groups matched for stage, prostate-specific antigen, and Gleason score.

RESULTS

Between 2004 and 2016, utilization of definitive therapy with either surgery or radiation therapy increased in both White and Black men in the United States. However, we found that Black men compared with White men were significantly less likely to receive definitive therapy (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.64-0.79, p < .001). Using multivariable modeling, effect size diminished after adjusting for sociodemographic variables. Notably, there is evidence of the racial disparity narrowing over time.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight striking but improving racial disparities in elderly men with high risk PCa in the US, an overall undertreated population.

Cultivating LGBTQ+ Competent Cancer Research: Recommendations from LGBTQ+ Cancer Survivors, Care Partners, and Community Advocates

OBJECTIVE

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) or LGBTQ+ communities were designated as a National Institutes of Health (NIH) disparity population in 2016, yet research exploring SGM cancer disparities is still limited. Thus, we sought the insight of LGBTQ+ cancer survivors, care partners, and community advocates to learn their recommendations for cultivating competent and inclusive cancer research for LGBTQ+ individuals.

DATA SOURCES

We conducted a focus group with LGBTQ+ survivors and care partners of LGBTQ+ survivors who were 18 years or older (N = 8) and interviews with community advocates who are leaders in LGBTQ+ cancer (N = 8). The focus group and interviews were recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis.

CONCLUSION

Qualitative analysis elicited an overarching theme of cultivating competent research for LGBTQ+ individuals, including three subthemes: (i) Cisheteronormativity: An inhospitable ecosystem for LGBTQ+ patients, survivors, and care partners, (ii) Study design: Shifting from invasive 'othering' to a sustainable community-driven climate, and (iii) Recruitment and data collection: Ways to cultivate ecosystem health. Cultivating inclusive, competent research with SGM populations is crucial for addressing health disparities and improving cancer survivors' and care partners' health.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Recommendations from LGBTQ+ survivors, care partners, and community advocates ranged from small alterations to systemic changes, highlighting the multifaceted yet feasible process of cultivating LGBTQ+ competent cancer research. The process of cultivating competent research for LGBTQ+ populations will take substantial investment from researchers, providers, and health systems.

Experiences of UK African-Caribbean prostate cancer survivors of discharge to primary care

Objective: Black men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer (PCa), to do so at a younger age and to experience a more aggressive form than White men. This study aims to understand the experiences of African-Caribbean men with respect to their discharge to primary care following successful PCa treatment and the challenges associated with survivorship.Design: Eight African-Caribbean men, who had been successfully treated for PCa, were recruited through the charity BME Cancer Communities. They participated in a focus group, which took place on the premises of the charity and was audio-recorded. The recording was transcribed and the data were analysed employing thematic analysis.Results: Three overarching themes were developed: Discharge - misconceptions and uncertainties; Survivorship - challenges and ways of coping; Black men and PCa: real and potential discrimination. Participants expressed concerns regarding the lack of information and clarity about what discharge meant, the quality of follow-up care, especially the levels of specialist knowledge among GPs, and the impact of side-effects, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED). Participants linked ED with stereotypes of Black male sexuality, particularly in relation to difficulties of expressing their emotions and psychological distress. African-Caribbean men face particular challenges in dealing with the side-effects of treatment for PCa, which are linked to socially-constructed ideas of masculinity.Conclusion: There needs to be a greater focus in primary care on understanding these issues and providing individualised culturally-sensitive care. In particular, GPs should be aware of sensitivities concerning help-seeking related to culturally-mediated understandings of masculinity.

Disparities in Refusal of Locoregional Treatment for Prostate Adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

We assessed sociodemographic factors associated with and survival implications of refusal of potentially survival-prolonging locoregional treatment (LT, including radiotherapy and surgery) despite provider recommendation among men with localized prostate adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (2004-2015) identified men with TxN0M0 prostate cancer who either received or refused LT despite provider recommendation. Multivariable logistic regression defined adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% CI of refusing LT, with sociodemographic and clinical covariates. Models were stratified by low-risk and intermediate- or high-risk (IR or HR) disease, with a separate interaction analysis between race and risk group. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard ratios compared overall survival (OS) among men who received versus refused LT.

RESULTS

Of 887,839 men (median age 64 years, median follow-up 6.14 years), 2,487 (0.28%) refused LT. Among men with IR or HR disease (n = 651,345), Black and Asian patients were more likely to refuse LT than White patients (0.35% v 0.29% v 0.17%; Black v White AOR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.52 to 2.01; P < .001; Asian v White AOR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.05 to 2.06; P = .027, race * risk group interaction P < .001). Later year of diagnosis, community facility type, noninsurance or Medicaid, and older age were also associated with increased odds of LT refusal, overall and when stratifying by risk group. For men with IR or HR disease, LT refusal was associated with worse OS (5-year OS 80.1% v 91.5%, HR, 1.65, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

LT refusal has increased over time; racial disparities were greater in higher-risk disease. Refusal despite provider recommendation highlights populations that may benefit from efforts to assess and reduce barriers to care.

Etiology and Outcomes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in an Ethnically Diverse Population: The Multiethnic Cohort

BACKGROUNDS

HCC incidence varies by race/ethnicity. We characterized racial differences in underlying etiology, presentation, and survival in the linkage of Multiethnic Cohort Study with SEER and Medicare claims.

METHODS

HCC characteristics, treatment, and underlying etiology in participants were obtained. Deaths were ascertained using state death certificates and the National Death Index. Risk factors were collected via questionnaires. Cox models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for death.

RESULTS

Among 359 cases, the average age at diagnosis was 75.1. The most common etiology was hepatitis C (HCV) (33%), followed by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (31%), and different by ethnicity (p < 0.0001). African Americans (AA) (59.5%) and Latinos (40.6%) were more likely to be diagnosed with HCV-related HCC. In Japanese Americans (33.1%), Native Hawaiians (39.1%), and whites (34.8%), NAFLD was the most common etiology. Receipt of treatment varied across ethnic groups (p = 0.0005); AA had the highest proportion of no treatment (50.0%), followed by Latinos (45.3%), vs. whites (15.2%). HCC (72.2%) was the most common cause of death. In a multivariate analysis, AA (HR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.06-3.28) had significantly higher mortality compared to whites.

CONCLUSIONS

We found significant ethnic differences in HCC underlying etiology, receipt of treatment, and outcome. The findings are important for reducing disparities.

Helping Men Find Their Way: Improving Prostate Cancer Clinic Attendance via Patient Navigation

Navigation programs aim to help patients overcome barriers to cancer diagnosis and treatment. Missed clinic appointments have undesirable effects on the patient, health system, and society, and treatment delays have been shown to result in inferior surgical cure rates for men with prostate cancer (CaP). We sought to measure the impact of patient navigation on CaP clinic adherence. Patient navigators contacted patients prior to their first encounter for known or suspected CaP between 7/1/2016 and 6/30/2017. Encounters from 7/1/2014 to 6/30/2015 were used as a historical control. Patient-variables were analyzed including age, health insurance status, home address, zip code, race, ethnicity, and referring primary care clinic. Encounter-level variables included diagnosis (categorized as known or suspected CaP), date of appointment, type of appointment [new vs. return], and provider. The associations between several factors including navigation contact and these variables with missed appointment were analyzed using generalized linear mixed effects multivariate logistic regression. A total of 2854 scheduled clinic encounters from 986 unique patients were analyzed. Patient navigation resulted in a lower missed appointment rate (8.8% vs. 13.9%, OR = 0.64, IQR 0.44-0.93, p = 0.02 on multivariable analysis). Lack of health insurance (OR = 13.18 [5.13-33.83]), suspected but not confirmed CaP diagnosis (OR = 7.44 [4.85-11.42]), and Black (1.97 [1.06-3.65]) or Hispanic (OR = 3.61 [1.42-9.16]) race, were associated with missed appointment. Implementation of patient navigation reduced missed appointment rates for CaP related ambulatory encounters. Identifying risk factors for missed appointment may aid in targeting navigation services to those most likely to benefit from this intervention.

Lower Levels of Trust in the Medical Profession Among White, Younger, and More-educated Individuals With Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Levels of medical mistrust have historically been higher among racial/ethnic minority patients compared with whites, largely owing to societal and health system inequities and history of discrimination or experimentation. However, recently trust in physicians has declined in the United States in general. We investigated trust in physicians among a large cohort of cancer patients residing in Texas.

METHODS

A sample of recently diagnosed cancer patients in Texas were identified from the Texas Cancer Registry with 1344 patients returning surveys between March 2017 and March 2020. The multiscale inventory was mailed to each individual and included the Trust in the Medical Profession Scale which assesses levels of agreement with 11 trust-related statements. Multivariable linear regression models were constructed to assess the adjusted relationship between trust in the medical profession aggregate score and sociodemographic and clinical factors.

RESULTS

A total of 1250 surveys were evaluable for trust in the medical profession. The mean aggregate trust score for all patients was 37.3 (95% confidence interval: 36.8-37.7). Unadjusted trust scores were higher for Hispanic (40.5) and black (38.2) respondents compared with white (36.4) (P<0.001). Multivariable analyses showed white, younger, more-educated, or those with lower levels of self-reported health estimated toward lower adjusted scores for trust in the medical profession.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed relatively higher levels of medical mistrust among white, younger, more-educated individuals with cancer or those with poorer health. While the relatively higher trust among minority individuals is encouraging, these findings raise the possibility that recent societal trends toward mistrust in science may have implications for cancer care.

Racial and Sex Disparities in Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the USA

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we aim to provide a summary of the current literature on race and gender disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence, stage at diagnosis, treatment and prognosis in the United States.

RECENT FINDINGS

HCC incidence rates are rising in the U.S. in all racial/ethnic groups except for Asian/Pacific Islanders, with disproportionate rises and the highest rates among Hispanics compared to Blacks and non-Hispanic whites. There are striking sex disparities in HCC incidence and mortality; however, with the shifting epidemiology of HCC risk factors in the U.S, there is recent evidence that HCC is trending towards less male predominance, particularly among younger birth cohorts. Despite significant advances in HCC treatment over the past decade, disparities in HCC surveillance and treatment receipt persist among racial and ethnic minorities and the socioeconomically disadvantaged. Black patients continue to experience worse survival outcomes than non-Black patients with HCC.

SUMMARY

There are significant racial and gender disparities in HCC incidence, treatment, and mortality in the U.S. Though these disparities are well-documented, data are still limited on the specific determinants driving disparities in HCC. To achieve health equity for all patients with HCC, we must advance beyond simply reporting on disparities and begin implementing targeted interventions to eliminate disparities.

Racial disparity in the utilization of multiparametric MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy for the detection of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Black men have significantly higher incidence and are up to three times more likely to die of prostate cancer (PCa) than White men. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging-ultrasound fusion biopsy (FBx) has emerged as a promising modality for the detection of PCa. The goal of our study is to identify differences in utilization of FBx between Black and White men presenting with suspicion of PCa.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of Black and White men who presented with suspicion of PCa and required biopsy from January 2014 to December 2018. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to study the influence of race on the utilization of FBx.

RESULTS

Six hundred nineteen (Black: 182, White: 437) men were included in the study. Forty-one out of 182 (22.5%) Black men underwent FBx compared with 225/437 (51.5%) of White men (P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, race, prostate-specific antigen level, digital rectal exam, family history of PCa and health insurance provider, Black race was found to be a significant negative predictor of obtaining FBx (OR:0.32, 95% CI: 0.21-0.51, P < 0.001). Black race stayed an independent negative predictor (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.20-0.64, P < 0.001) in the cohort of patients who were biopsy naïve; however, although reduced, there was no significant difference in the cohort with a prior negative biopsy (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.19-1.36, P = 0.179).

CONCLUSIONS

Although FBx is a superior modality for early detection of PCa, we found that Black men were less likely to undergo FBx when presenting with PCa suspicion. Further investigation is needed to evaluate if this difference is patient preference or if there are underlying socioeconomic, cultural or provider biases influencing this disparity.

Ethnographic investigation of patient-provider communication among African American men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer: a study protocol

INTRODUCTION

In the USA, African American men bear a disproportionate burden of prostate cancer (PCa) compared with all other groups, having a higher incidence and mortality, poorer quality of life and higher dissatisfaction with care. They are also less likely to receive guideline-concordant treatment (eg, undertreatment of aggressive disease). Inadequate patient-provider communication contributes to suboptimal care, which can be exacerbated by patients' limited health literacy, providers' lack of communication skills and time constraints in low-resource, safety net settings. This study is designed to examine the communication experiences of African American patients with PCa as they undertake treatment decision-making.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Using an ethnographic approach, we will follow 25 African American men newly diagnosed with PCa at two public hospitals, from diagnosis through treatment decision. Data sources include: (1) audio-recorded clinic observations during urology, radiation oncology, medical oncology and primary care visits, (2) field notes from clinic observations, (3) patient surveys after clinic visits, (4) two in-depth patient interviews, (5) a provider survey, and (6) in-depth interviews with providers. We will explore patients' understanding of their diagnoses and treatment options, sources of support in decision-making, patient-provider communication and treatment decision-making processes. Audio-recorded observations and interviews will be transcribed verbatim. An iterative process of coding and team discussions will be used to thematically analyse patients' experiences and providers' perspectives, and to refine codes and identify key themes. Descriptive statistics will summarise survey data.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine in-depth patient-provider communication among African American patients with PCa. For a population as marginalised as African American men, an ethnographic approach allows for explication of complex sociocultural and contextual influences on healthcare processes and outcomes. Study findings will inform the development of interventions and initiatives that promote patient-centred communication, shared decision-making and guideline-concordant care. This study was approved by the University of California San Francisco and the Alameda Health System Institutional Review Boards.

Social and medical risk factors associated with supportive needs in the first year following localized prostate cancer treatment

Purpose:

Individuals who completed treatment for prostate cancer (PCa) often report poor coping and practical concerns when adapting to new roles in their lives—and strong patient-provider communication is critical for this period. However, there is limited research identifying factors associated with supportive needs after the completion of PCa treatment. This study aimed to identify the social and medical risk factors associated with supportive needs for adapting among individuals who completed treatment for localized PCa.

Methods:

Using baseline data from a study evaluating a web-based support system for patients in the first year following treatment for localized PCa, self-efficacy for re-entry (e.g., maintaining relationships, symptom management), medical interactions, and practical concerns (e.g., insurance, exercise) were assessed. Multivariable regression analyses were completed to identify risk factors for low readiness.

Results:

Participants (N=431) with lower health literacy or income, or with depressive symptoms had lower self-efficacy for re-entry, more negative interactions with medical providers, and more practical concerns (ps<.05). Lastly, Non-Hispanic White participants reported greater readiness compared to all other races (ps<.05).

Conclusions:

Multiple social and medical risk factors are associated with greater supportive needs when adapting to new roles after PCa treatment. Understanding the risk factors for supportive needs in this period is critical. Future research is needed to help providers identify and support individuals at risk for poorer coping and greater practical concerns after treatment completion.

Implications for Cancer Survivors:

Identifying individuals with greater supportive needs following treatment for localized PCa treatment will help ensure successful adaptation to new roles.

Refusal of surgery for colon cancer: Sociodemographic disparities and survival implications among US patients with resectable disease

BACKGROUND

We aimed to identify factors associated with refusal of surgery among patients with colon cancer.

METHODS

This 2004-2016 NCDB retrospective study identified AJCC stage I-III colon cancer patients who were recommended surgery. Multivariable logistic regression defined adjusted odds ratios of refusing treatment, with sociodemographic and clinical covariates. Treatment propensity-adjusted Cox proportional hazard ratios defined differential survival stratified by clinical stage, controlling for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Of 170,594 patients recommended surgery, 1116 refused. Increased rates of surgery refusal were associated with older age, African American race, CDCC>3, and female sex. Decreased rates of surgery refusal were associated with higher income and private insurance. Stratifying by stage, refusal rates among African Americans remained disparately high. Refusal of surgery was associated with worse overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Disparate rates of refusal of surgery for resectable colon cancer by race and other sociodemographic factors highlight potential treatment adherence reinforcement beneficiaries, necessitating further study of shared decision-making.

Factors associated with willingness to provide biospecimens for genetics research among African American cancer survivors

This study evaluated factors associated with willingness to provide biospecimens for cancer genetic research among African American cancer survivors. A total of 200 African American adults diagnosed with breast, colon, and/or prostate cancers completed a self-administered survey. Family history information, beliefs about cancer research, cancer genetics and disparities knowledge, willingness to provide a biospecimen, and demographics were obtained. Chi-square, independent samples t tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed. Overall, 79% of this sample was willing to provide a biospecimen for cancer genetics research. Independent associations of willingness to provide a biospecimen existed among demographics (males (p = 0.041)), those who believed in the importance of genetic causes of cancer (p < 0.001), individuals who believe it is important to participate in genetics research (p < 0.001), and those who indicated they would participate in genetics research to help future generations (p = 0.026). Overall, 12.5-56% of participants demonstrated some level of genetics and cancer disparities. This study identified factors that may be incorporated into future research interventions to engage the African American cancer population in cancer genetics biobanking research.

Racial disparities, cancer and response to oxidative stress

At the intersection of genetics, biochemistry and behavioral sciences, there is a largely untapped opportunity to consider how ethnic and racial disparities contribute to individual sensitivity to reactive oxygen species and how these might influence susceptibility to various cancers and/or response to classical cancer treatment regimens that pervasively result in the formation of such chemical species. This chapter begins to explore these connections and builds a platform from which to consider how the disciplines can be strengthened further.

Does Discrimination Breed Mistrust? Examining the Role of Mediated and Non-Mediated Discrimination Experiences in Medical Mistrust

Medical mistrust is associated with a decreased likelihood of engaging in various health behaviors, including health utilization and preventive screening. Despite calls for research to address medical mistrust, few studies have explicitly delved into antecedents to medical mistrust. The current study a) examines the relationship between discrimination experiences and medical mistrust and b) experimentally tests the influence of mediated vicarious discrimination on reported levels of medical mistrust. Participants (N = 198) were randomly assigned to view news stories in one of four experimental conditions: no exposure, no discrimination control, implicit racial discrimination, and explicit racial discrimination. Results indicated prior personal and vicarious discrimination experiences were related to medical mistrust. Furthermore, exposure to mediated discrimination influenced medical mistrust in different ways for Black and White participants. Among Black participants, medical mistrust was significantly higher for those exposed to the implicit racial discrimination condition than the control condition. Marginal differences were found for White participants such that those exposed to both explicit and implicit racial discrimination conditions reported higher medical mistrust than those exposed to the control condition. Our findings are discussed in terms of the theoretical and practical implications for health communication scholars seeking to examine and influence health behaviors.

Racial disparities in the choice of definitive treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity

BACKGROUND

Definitive surgery is recommended for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The purpose of this study was to present our assessment of the disparities in treatment selection for oral cavity SCC.

METHODS

Non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black patients with oral cavity SCC were identified in the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Regression models were used to estimate relative risk (RR) of receiving surgery and absolute difference between non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black patients.

RESULTS

There were 82.3% of non-Hispanic white patients who received surgery, compared to 64.2% of non-Hispanic black patients (P < .001). The non-Hispanic black patients were less likely to receive surgery than non-Hispanic white patients (RR 0.87) with an absolute difference of 10.9%. The non-Hispanic black patients were significantly more likely to not be offered surgery (RR 1.42) and to refuse recommended surgery (RR 1.38) but not have a contraindication to surgery (RR 1.17).

CONCLUSION

The non-Hispanic black patients are less likely to receive or be recommended surgery for oral cavity SCC and are more likely to refuse surgery. Further study is needed to identify strategies to close this disparity.

Factors affecting trust in healthcare among middle-aged to older Korean American women

Background

Predictors of trust in healthcare providers and the healthcare system have never been studied in Korean Americans (KA) despite the fact that trust plays an important role in health behaviors. The purpose of this study is to examine factors influencing trust in the healthcare system and providers among KA women.

Methods

Data were collected in 196 KA women examining the effects of perceived discrimination and trust on breast cancer screening in the Chicago metropolitan area. Path analysis was used to identify factors influencing trust in the healthcare system and providers.

Results

Acculturation was positively related to trust in healthcare providers (β = .15, p =. 002), and discrimination in the healthcare system was inversely related to trust in healthcare providers (β = −.60, p <. 001). Length of stay in the US was inversely related to distrust in the healthcare system (β = −.14, p <. 001), and discrimination in healthcare was positively related to distrust in the healthcare system (β = .60, p <. 001). Trust in healthcare providers and distrust in the healthcare system were moderately correlated (r = .51, p < .001).

Conclusion

Higher levels of acculturation and lower levels of perceived discrimination were identified as predictors of higher levels of trust in healthcare providers. A shorter stay in the US and higher levels of discrimination were identified as predictors of higher levels of distrust in the healthcare system. Perceived discrimination is a target for interventions to enhance trust in the healthcare system, and therefore reduce healthcare disparities in KAs.

The Role and Influence of Prostate Cancer Caregivers Across the Care Continuum

Background. Black men endure a disproportionate burden of morbidity and mortality related to prostate cancer (CaP). Increasingly family members are assuming the role of providing care and support to family members with chronic disease. Understanding the role and influence of the caregiver is a necessary part of developing resources to assist individuals learning to provide care. Aim. The analysis aimed to explore CaP survivors’ perceptions of the role and influence of family caregivers to better understand existing opportunities for improving experiences and outcomes for both the caregiver and the care receiver. Design. Secondary analysis of qualitative interview transcripts. Data were analyzed to explore new inquiries related to CaP survivors’ perceptions of family caregivers’ role and influence at each stage of care. Content analysis was used to group data into established categories. Data Source. Data included qualitative interview transcripts with 32 CaP survivors from the Florida Prostate Cancer Care and Survivorship Project. Results. The role of the family caregiver is complex. Caregivers in this community seem to have a significant influence on behavior modification and cues to action for Black men with prostate cancer. According to the men in this group, caregivers functioned as normalizing agents, coordinating care and creating a new normal, throughout the various stages of care and survivorship. Conclusions. Findings inform areas for future research to develop culturally tailored health promotion programs designed to improve outcomes and address the needs of both the family caregiver and the care receiver across the care continuum.

TUSKEGEE AND THE HEALTH OF BLACK MEN

JEL Codes: I14, O15 For forty years, the Tuskegee Study of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male passively monitored hundreds of adult black males with syphilis despite the availability of effective treatment. The study's methods have become synonymous with exploitation and mistreatment by the medical profession. To identify the study's effects on the behavior and health of older black men, we use an interacted difference-in-difference-in-differences model, comparing older black men to other demographic groups, before and after the Tuskegee revelation, in varying proximity to the study's victims. We find that the disclosure of the study in 1972 is correlated with increases in medical mistrust and mortality and decreases in both outpatient and inpatient physician interactions for older black men. Our estimates imply life expectancy at age 45 for black men fell by up to 1.5 years in response to the disclosure, accounting for approximately 35% of the 1980 life expectancy gap between black and white men and 25% of the gap between black men and women.

Partnering around cancer clinical trials (PACCT): study protocol for a randomized trial of a patient and physician communication intervention to increase minority accrual to prostate cancer clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Cancer clinical trials are essential for testing new treatments and represent state-of-the-art cancer treatment, but only a small percentage of patients ever enroll in a trial. Under-enrollment is an even greater problem among minorities, particularly African Americans, representing a racial/ethnic disparity in cancer care. One understudied cause is patient-physician communication, which is often of poor quality during clinical interactions between African-American patients and non-African-American physicians. Partnering Around Cancer Clinical Trials (PACCT) involves a transdisciplinary theoretical model proposing that patient and physician individual attitudes and beliefs and their interpersonal communication during racially discordant clinical interactions influence outcomes related to patients' decisions to participate in a trial. The overall goal of the study is to test a multilevel intervention designed to increase rates at which African-American and White men with prostate cancer make an informed decision to participate in a clinical trial.

METHODS/DESIGN

Data collection will occur at two NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers. Participants include physicians who treat men with prostate cancer and their African-American and White patients who are potentially eligible for a clinical trial. The study uses two distinct research designs to evaluate the effects of two behavioral interventions, one focused on patients and the other on physicians. The primary goal is to increase the number of patients who decide to enroll in a trial; secondary goals include increasing rates of physician trial offers, improving the quality of patient-physician communication during video recorded clinical interactions in which trials may be discussed, improving patients' understanding of trials offered, and increasing the number of patients who actually enroll. Aims are to 1) determine the independent and combined effects of the two interventions on outcomes; 2) compare the effects of the interventions on African-American versus White men; and 3) examine the extent to which patient-physician communication mediates the effect of the interventions on the outcomes.

DISCUSSION

PACCT has the potential to identify ways to increase clinical trial rates in a diverse patient population. The research can also improve access to high quality clinical care for African American men bearing the disproportionate burden of disparities in prostate and other cancers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials.gov registration number: NCT02906241 (September 8, 2016).

Racial Disparity in Delivering Definitive Therapy for Intermediate/High-risk Localized Prostate Cancer: The Impact of Facility Features and Socioeconomic Characteristics

BACKGROUND

The gap in prostate cancer (PCa) survival between Blacks and Whites has widened over the past decade. Investigators hypothesize that this disparity may be partially attributable to differences in rates of definitive therapy between races.

OBJECTIVE

To examine facility level variation in the use of definitive therapy among Black and White men for localized PCa.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Using data from the National Cancer Data Base, we identified 223 873 White and 59 262 Black men ≥40 yr of age receiving care within the USA with biopsy confirmed localized intermediate/high-risk PCa diagnosed between January 2004 and December 2013.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Multilevel logistic regression was fitted to predict the odds of receiving definitive therapy for PCa. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to adjust for inherent patient and facility-level differences when appropriate.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Eighty-three percent (n=185 647) of White men received definitive therapy compared with 74% (n=43 662) of Black men between 2004 and 2013. Overall rates of definitive therapy during that time increased for both White (81% vs 83%, p<0.001) and Black (73% vs 75%, p=0.001) men. However, 39% of treating facilities demonstrated significantly higher rates of definitive therapy in White men, compared with just 1% favoring Black men. Our study is limited by potential selection bias and effect modification.

CONCLUSIONS

After adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors, we found that most facilities favored definitive therapy in Whites. Health care providers should be aware of these inherit biases when counseling patients on treatment options for localized PCa. Our study is limited by the retrospective nature of the cohort.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We found significant differences in rates of radiation and surgical treatment for prostate cancer among White and Black men, with most facilities favoring Whites. Nonclinical factors such as treatment facility type and location influenced rates of therapy.

Randomized trial of a question prompt list to increase patient active participation during interactions with black patients and their oncologists

OBJECTIVE

Communication during racially-discordant interactions is often of poor quality and may contribute to racial treatment disparities. We evaluated an intervention designed to increase patient active participation and other communication-related outcomes during interactions between Black patients and non-Black oncologists.

METHODS

Participants were 18 non-Black medical oncologists and 114 Black patients at two cancer hospitals in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Before a clinic visit to discuss treatment, patients were randomly assigned to usual care or to one of two question prompt list (QPL) formats: booklet (QPL-Only), or booklet and communication coach (QPL-plus-Coach). Patient-oncologist interactions were video recorded. Patients reported perceptions of the intervention, oncologist communication, role in treatment decisions, and trust in the oncologist. Observers assessed interaction length, patient active participation, and oncologist communication.

RESULTS

The intervention was viewed positively and did not increase interaction length. The QPL-only format increased patient active participation; the QPL-plus-Coach format decreased patient perceptions of oncologist communication. No other significant effects were found.

CONCLUSION

This QPL booklet is acceptable and increases patient active participation in racially-discordant oncology interactions. Future research should investigate whether adding physician-focused interventions might improve other outcomes.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

This QPL booklet is acceptable and can improve patient active participation in racially-discordant oncology interactions.

HPV vaccine awareness and the association of trust in cancer information from physicians among males

INTRODUCTION

Black and Hispanic men are diagnosed with more HPV-related cancers and at later stages compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Physician communication with men about HPV vaccination may be beneficial to increasing HPV vaccinations and decreasing HPV transmission. The purpose of this study was to examine HPV and HPV vaccine awareness among men by race, and the association between trust in cancer information from physicians and ever hearing about HPV and the HPV vaccine.

METHODS

U.S. adult males (age 18+) were identified from the 2014 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) (n=1203). Binomial logistic regression models assessed the influences of race/ethnicity and trust of cancer information from physicians on men having heard of HPV and the HPV vaccination.

RESULTS

Approximately 50% of the sample had never heard of HPV and 53% had never heard of the vaccine. Black men were less likely to know that HPV is sexually transmitted compared to White and Hispanic men (p<0.001). Hispanic and Black men were less likely to have heard about the HPV vaccine when compared to White men (p<0.001). Additionally, Hispanic men were less likely to trust a doctor about cancer information compared to White and Black men (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Findings highlight the lack of awareness about HPV among men. Furthermore, statistically significant racial/ethnic differences were found in HPV vaccine knowledge and trust in receiving cancer information from physicians. Future interventions should include community-based approaches and improved physicians' HPV-related communication to increase knowledge and uptake of the HPV vaccine.

Barriers and Strategies to Participation in Tissue Research Among African-American Men

Before the burgeoning field of biospecimen collection can advance prevention and treatment methods, researchers must access diverse molecular data samples. However, minorities, especially African-American men, remain reticent to join these studies. This study, using theory-based approaches, investigated African-American men's barriers to participating in biorepository research. Fourteen focus groups were conducted among 70 African-American men (ages 40 to 80). The groups were stratified by prostate cancer history and educational attainment background. Participants identified perceived factors that promoted or hindered study participation when questioned about their knowledge and attitudes about biospecimen research. Ninety-four percent of participants indicated never participating in a study that collected biological samples. Barriers to their participation included lack of knowledge and understanding regarding biospecimen research practices and uses. In addition, they extensively cited a prevalent mistrust of the medical community and discomfort with study recruitment practices. African-American males were more willing to participate in biorepository studies with physician endorsement or if they understood that participation could benefit future generations. Men also wanted more recruitment and advertising done in familiar places.

High Levels of Medical Mistrust Are Associated With Low Quality of Life Among Black and White Men With Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

Medical mistrust is thought to affect health care-based decisions and has been linked to poor health outcomes. The effects of medical mistrust among men with prostate cancer are unknown. Thus, the goal of the current study is to examine the association between medical mistrust and quality of life (QOL) among black and white men with prostate cancer.

METHODS

A total of 877 men (415 black, 462 white) with prostate cancer between the ages of 40 to 81 years who entered the North Carolina Central Cancer Registry during the years 2007 and 2008 were retrospectively recruited. The dependent variable was overall QOL measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate questionnaire. The primary independent variable was medical mistrust. Multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the association between medical mistrust and overall QOL.

RESULTS

Compared with white men, black men reported a higher level of medical mistrust (black = 2.7, white = 2.4; P < .001) and lower QOL (black = 134.4, white = 139.5; P < 0.001). After controlling for demographical and clinical variables, higher levels of medical mistrust were associated with a reduction in overall QOL among men with prostate cancer (beta = -7.73; standard error = 1.54) CONCLUSIONS: Higher levels of medical mistrust are associated with reduced overall QOL among black and white men with prostate cancer. Interventions targeted to reduce medical mistrust may be effective in increasing the overall QOL of men with prostate cancer.

Barriers to Clinical Trial Enrollment in Racial and Ethnic Minority Patients With Cancer

BACKGROUND

Clinical trials that study cancer are essential for testing the safety and effectiveness of promising treatments, but most people with cancer never enroll in a clinical trial - a challenge exemplified in racial and ethnic minorities. Underenrollment of racial and ethnic minorities reduces the generalizability of research findings and represents a disparity in access to high-quality health care.

METHODS

Using a multilevel model as a framework, potential barriers to trial enrollment of racial and ethnic minorities were identified at system, individual, and interpersonal levels. Exactly how each level directly or indirectly contributes to doctor-patient communication was also reviewed. Selected examples of implemented interventions are included to help address these barriers. We then propose our own evidence-based intervention addressing barriers at the individual and interpersonal levels.

RESULTS

Barriers to enrolling a diverse population of patients in clinical trials are complex and multilevel. Interventions focused at each level have been relatively successful, but multilevel interventions have the greatest potential for success.

CONCLUSION

To increase the enrollment of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials, future interventions should address barriers at multiple levels.

Ever and Annual Use of Prostate Cancer Screening in African American Men

Since prostate cancer continues to disproportionately affect African American men in terms of incidence, morbidity, and mortality, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening plays an important role in early detection, especially when men engage in informed decision making to accept or decline this test. The authors evaluated utilization of PSA testing among African American men based on factors that are important components of making informed decisions. Utilization of PSA testing was evaluated based on whether men had ever had PSA testing and PSA testing during the past year in a community-based sample of African American men ages 50 to 75 ( n = 132). Overall, 64% of men ( n = 85) reported that they had ever had a PSA test; the mean ( SD) age for first use of PSA testing was 47.7 ( SD = 7.4). The likelihood of ever having a PSA test increased significantly with physician communication (odds ratio [OR] = 14.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.20, 48.10; p = .0001) and with having an annual household income that was greater than $20,000 (OR = 9.80; 95% CI = 3.15, 30.51; p = .0001). The odds of ever having a PSA test were also decreased with each unit increase in future temporal orientation (OR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.47, 0.93; p = .02). Of the men who had ever had PSA testing, 57% were screened during the past year. Only health insurance status had a significant independent association with having annual PSA testing (OR = 5.10; 95% CI = 1.67, 15.60; p = .004). Different factors were associated significantly with ever having PSA testing and annual testing among African American men. African American men may not be making an informed decision about prostate cancer screening.

Fatalism, medical mistrust, and pretreatment health-related quality of life in ethnically diverse prostate cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have examined the impact of cultural processes prevalent in minority ethnic groups such as cancer fatalism and medical mistrust on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) following a cancer diagnosis. The present study examined relationships among ethnicity, HRQoL, and two possible cultural vulnerability factors-fatalistic attitudes and medical mistrust-among an ethnically diverse sample of men with prostate cancer (PC) prior to undergoing active treatment.

METHODS

A total of 268 men with localized PC (30% African American, 29% Hispanic, and 41% non-Hispanic White) were assessed cross-sectionally prior to active treatment. Path analyses examined relationships among ethnicity, vulnerability factors, and HRQoL.

RESULTS

Ethnicity was not related to HRQoL after controlling for relevant covariates. Hispanic men reported greater cancer fatalism compared with non-Hispanic White men (β = 0.15, p = 0.03), and both Hispanics (β = 0.19, p < 0.01) and African Americans (β = 0.20, p < 0.01) reported greater medical mistrust than non-Hispanic Whites. Fatalism demonstrated a trend toward negatively impacting physical well-being (β = -0.12, p = 0.06), but was not significantly related to emotional well-being (β = -0.10, p = 0.11). Greater medical mistrust was associated with poorer physical (β = -0.14, p = 0.03) and emotional well-being (β = -0.13, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate that fatalistic attitudes and medical system mistrust were more prevalent among minority men. Less trust in the medical system was associated with poorer physical and emotional well-being. Attention to perceptions of the healthcare system and its relation to HRQoL may have implications for targeting culturally driven attitudes that may compromise adjustment to a PC diagnosis.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A disparity of words: racial differences in oncologist-patient communication about clinical trials

BACKGROUND

African Americans are consistently underrepresented in cancer clinical trials. Minority under-enrolment may be, in part, due to differences in the way clinical trials are discussed in oncology visits with African American vs. White patients.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differences in oncologist-patient communication during offers to participate in clinical trials in oncology visits with African American and White patients.

METHODS

From an archive of video-recorded oncology visits, we selected all visits with African American patients that included a trial offer (n = 11) and a matched sample of visits with demographically/medically comparable White patients (n = 11). Using mixed qualitative-quantitative methods, we assessed differences by patient race in (i) word count of entire visits and (ii) frequency of mentions and word count of discussions of clinical trials and key elements of consent.

RESULTS

Visits with African American patients, compared to visits with White patients, were shorter overall and included fewer mentions of and less discussion of clinical trials. Also, visits with African Americans included less discussion of the purpose and risks of trials offered, but more discussion of voluntary participation.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

African American patients may make decisions about clinical trial participation based on less discussion with oncologists than do White patients. Possible explanations include a less active communication style of African Americans in medical visits, oncologists' concerns about patient mistrust, and/or oncologist racial bias. Findings suggest oncologists should pay more conscious attention to developing the topic of clinical trials with African American patients, particularly purpose and risks.

Grief and Risk of Depression in Context

We investigated the relationships of grief and depression to cancer caregiving in early bereavement. We began with three expectations: (a) each outcome would reflect different situational predictors, (b) grief would be more directly related to such predictors, and (c) components of grief would relate differently to the caregiving context and depressed mood. We conducted telephone interviews with family caregivers of incurable cancer patients from two hospitals. A total of 199 family caregivers were interviewed at the time of the patient’s diagnosis and reinterviewed 3 months after the patient’s death. Results showed grief severity was predicted by caregiving circumstances, but bereavement depressed mood was largely unrelated to caregiving. Grief was the main predictor of depressed mood and mediated almost all other effects. We conclude that while grief may trigger depression, the dissimilar connection to context means that the two emotional states should not be equated based purely on similarity of expression.

Word on the Street: Engaging Local Leaders in a Dialogue About Prostate Cancer Among African Americans

African American men face the highest rates of prostate cancer, yet with no consensus for screening and treatment, making informed health care decisions is difficult. This study aimed to identify approaches to empowering African American men as proactive participants in prostate cancer decision making using an established community-campus partnership employing elements of community-based participatory research methods. Community stakeholders with an interest in, and knowledge about, health care in two local African American communities were recruited and completed key informant interviews (N = 39). Grounded theory coding identified common themes related to prostate cancer knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and responses to them. Common barriers such as gender roles, fear, and fatalism were identified as barriers to work-up and treatment, and both communities' inadequate and inaccurate prostate cancer information described as the key problem. To build on community strengths, participants said the change must come from inside these communities, not be imposed from the outside. To accomplish this, they suggested reaching men through women, connecting men to doctors they can trust, making men's cancer education part of broader health education initiatives designed as fun and inexpensive family entertainment events, and having churches bring community members in to speak on their experiences with cancer. This study demonstrated the success of community engagement to identify not only barriers but also local strengths and facilitators to prostate cancer care in two suburban/rural African American communities. Building collaboratively on community strengths may improve prostate cancer care specifically and health care in general.

The association between race and treatment regret among men with recurrent prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

To examine the impact of race on treatment regret among men with recurrent prostate cancer after surgery or radiation.

METHODS

The prospective Comprehensive, Observational, Multicenter, Prostate Adenocarcinoma (COMPARE) registry was used to study a cohort of 484 men with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy, external beam radiation or brachytherapy. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the association between race and treatment regret and to determine whether there was an interaction between race and sexual problems after treatment with regards to treatment regret.

RESULTS

Black men (N=78) were significantly more likely to have treatment regret when compared with non-black men (N=406; 21.8% versus 12.6%) on univariable analysis (odds ratio (OR) 1.94; 95% confidence interval 1.05-3.56; P=0.03). On multivariable analysis, black race trended towards but was no longer significantly associated with an increase in treatment regret (adjusted OR (AOR) 1.84 (0.95-3.58); P=0.071). There was an interaction between race and sexual problems after treatment (Pinteraction=0.02) such that among those without sexual problems, black men had more treatment regret than non-black men (26.7% versus 8.4%: AOR 4.68 (1.73-12.63); P=0.002), whereas among those with sexual problems, there was no difference in treatment regret between black and non-black men (18.8% versus 17.3%: AOR 1.04 (0.44-2.46); P=0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Among men with recurrent prostate cancer after surgery or radiation, black men were nearly twice as likely to experience treatment regret. Treating physicians should ensure that patients are fully apprised of the pros and cons of all treatment options to reduce the risk of subsequent regret.

Addressing cancer control needs of African-born immigrants in the US: a systematic literature review

Compared to non-Hispanic Whites, African immigrants have worse cancer outcomes. However, there is little research about cancer behaviors and/or interventions in this growing population as they are generally grouped with populations from America or the Caribbean. This systematic review examines cancer-related studies that included African-born participants. We searched PsycINFO, Ovid Medline, Pubmed, CINHAL, and Web of Science for articles focusing on any type of cancer that included African-born immigrant participants. Twenty articles met study inclusion criteria; only two were interventions. Most articles focused on one type of cancer (n=11) (e.g., breast cancer) and were conducted in disease-free populations (n=15). Studies included African participants mostly from Nigeria (n=8) and Somalia (n=6). However, many papers (n=7) did not specify nationality or had small percentages (<5%) of African immigrants (n=5). Studies found lower screening rates in African immigrants compared to other subpopulations (e.g. US-born). Awareness of screening practices was limited. Higher acculturation levels were associated with higher screening rates. Barriers to screening included access (e.g. insurance), pragmatic (e.g. transportation), and psychosocial barriers (e.g. shame). Interventions to improve cancer outcomes in African immigrants are needed. Research that includes larger samples with diverse African subgroups including cancer survivors is necessary to inform future directions.