bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract PO-099: SOX2 delineates a mouse lung adenocarcinoma subtype vulnerable to targeted therapy
Authors: Cooper Jonathan E. , Daemen Anneleen , Nickles Dorothee , Myrta Szymon , Foreman Oded , Eastham Jeff , Junttila Melissa R. , Jasper Heinrich
Published: December 2020

Lung adenocarcinomas comprise the largest fraction of non-small cell lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths. 75% of adenocarcinomas lack targeted therapies due to scarcity of druggable drivers. We leveraged transcriptional data from >800 early-stage and advanced patients to classify tumors based on signaling similarities and discover subgroups within this unmet patient population. The subtypes capture heterogeneity even amongst tumors lacking known oncogenic drivers. Paired multi-regional intratumoral biopsies demonstrate unified subtypes despite divergently evolved pro-oncogenic mutations, indicating subtype stability during selective pressure. We identified differential subtype response to MEK inhibition across multiple preclinical model systems and a clinical trial, supporting prognostic utility of transcriptional subtyping. Differential subtype dependency on MEK signaling reproduced in a mouse model of KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, where a MEK-dependent adenocarcinoma subtype is driven by a SOX2 cellular state. Our findings support forward translational relevance of transcriptional subtypes and reveal that naturally evolved yet ectopic expression of a pioneer transcription factor may modulate tumor subtype and response.

Citation Format: Jonathan E. Cooper, Anneleen Daemen, Dorothee Nickles, Szymon Myrta, Oded Foreman, Jeff Eastham, Melissa R. Junttila, Heinrich Jasper. SOX2 delineates a mouse lung adenocarcinoma subtype vulnerable to targeted therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference on Tumor Heterogeneity: From Single Cells to Clinical Impact; 2020 Sep 17-18. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(21 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-099.
Abstract PO-125: Targeting histone methylation to overrule transcriptionally driven drug resistance in myeloid leukemia
Authors: van Gils Noortje , Verhagen Han J.M.P. , Martiáñez Tània , Denkers Fedor , Vermue Eline , Rutten Arjo , Csikós Tamás , Çil Meyrem , Al Marjon , van Gemert Frank , Janssen Jeroen J.W.M. , Ossenkoppele Gert J. , Menezes Renee X. , Smit Linda
Published: December 2020

Standard induction chemotherapy, consisting of an anthracycline and cytarabine, has been the first-line therapeutic to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Although this treatment induces complete remissions (CR) in the majority of patients, many face a relapse. Relapse is caused by the survival of chemotherapy-resistant leukemia cells (minimal residual disease, MRD), that may have acquired drug resistance by non-genetic mechanisms. Persistence of MRD is driven by intra-leukemic heterogeneity and plasticity in response to therapy. Leukemia cells within MRD capable of initiating relapse are thought to have stem cell features and are therefore named “leukemic stem cells” (LSCs). In this study, we demonstrated that the anthracycline doxorubicin epigenetically reprograms leukemia cells by inducing tri-methylation of histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) and H3K4. Moreover, to understand chemotherapy resistance at the single-cell level and to study intra-leukemia heterogeneity with respect to anthracycline sensitivity, we seeded K562 myeloid leukemia cells in 480 wells, each containing 10.000 cells, and treated the cells with increasing concentrations of doxorubicin. Using this approach, a subpopulation of reversible anthracycline-tolerant cells (ATCs) was identified within the doxorubicin-sensitive leukemia cell population, which lacked upregulation of H3K27me3 or H3K4me3 and exhibited epigenetically regulated expression of stem cell features similar to leukemic stem cells (LSCs). These ATCs have a distinct transcriptional landscape from the leukemia bulk and could be eradicated by the KDM6 inhibitor GSK-J4. In primary human AML, GSK-J4 treatment could eliminate AML blasts and LSCs at diagnosis but importantly it could significantly reduce chemotherapy resistant AML patient cell load (MRD) and survival of LSCs residing within MRD, ex vivo and in vivo. An efficient response to GSK-J4 was associated with upregulation of H3K27 and/or H3K4 methylation, and downregulation of STAT5B. Together, our results reveal plasticity of anthracycline resistance in AML cells and highlight the potential of epigenetic-based therapeutics to target chemotherapy-resistant AML cells.

Citation Format: Noortje van Gils, Han J.M.P. Verhagen, Tània Martiáñez, Fedor Denkers, Eline Vermue, Arjo Rutten, Tamás Csikós, Meyrem Çil, Marjon Al, Frank van Gemert, Jeroen J.W.M. Janssen, Gert J. Ossenkoppele, Renee X. Menezes, Linda Smit. Targeting histone methylation to overrule transcriptionally driven drug resistance in myeloid leukemia [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference on Tumor Heterogeneity: From Single Cells to Clinical Impact; 2020 Sep 17-18. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(21 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-125.
Abstract IA01: Clinical Trial Diversity: A Perspective from the FDA Office of Minority Health and Health Equity
Authors: Araojo Richardae
Published: December 2020

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE) aims to protect and promote the health of diverse populations though research, outreach, and communication that addresses health disparities. A key priority area for FDA OMHHE is advancing racial and ethnic minority participation in clinical trials. This presentation will provide an overview of FDA OMHHE’s efforts to advance diverse participation in clinical trials and highlight FDA policy strategies that support clinical trial diversity.

Citation Format: Richardae Araojo. Clinical Trial Diversity: A Perspective from the FDA Office of Minority Health and Health Equity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA01.
Abstract IA13: Advancing gastric cancer precision medicine through minority patient derived modeling
Authors: Zhang Hongyong , Coggins Nicole , Lott Paul , Estrada Ana , Polanco Guadalupe , Morales Alexa , Rocha Sienna , Kirane Amanda , Urayama Shiro , Torres Javier , Bohorquez Mabel , Echeverry Magdalena , Consortium UCaMP , Carvajal-Carmona Luis G.
Published: December 2020

Gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality in Latinos, who are two times more likely to die of gastric cancer when compared to non-Latino Whites. Gastric cancer outcomes in this minority are poor as most tumors are detected in the metastatic setting, where five-year survival is less than 5%. Despite such a high mortality burden in Latinos and other minority populations, there are only three molecularly-guided therapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat gastric cancer. To advance precision medicine in minority groups, the NCI Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities funded our University of California Minority Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) Development and Trial Center (UCaMP), which is currently creating and characterizing PDXs and patient-derived organoids from minority patients including those with gastric cancer. In this presentation, we will present an overview of recent advances in gastric cancer precision modeling using patient-derived organoids and xenografts from Latino patients. We will summarize the most promising druggable genes and pathways in gastric tumors and will present initial findings on the development of promising combinations using PIK3CA inhibitors.

Citation Format: Hongyong Zhang, Nicole Coggins, Paul Lott, Ana Estrada, Guadalupe Polanco, Alexa Morales, Sienna Rocha, Amanda Kirane, Shiro Urayama, Javier Torres, Mabel Bohorquez, Magdalena Echeverry, UCaMP Consortium, Luis G. Carvajal-Carmona. Advancing gastric cancer precision medicine through minority patient derived modeling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA13.
Abstract IA16: Lung Cancer Risk Assessment in Diverse Populations: One Size Cannot Fit All
Authors: Nana-Sinkam Patrick
Published: December 2020

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States with an estimate of over 200,000 new cases and 135,720 deaths in 2020. Despite the development of precision therapies, immunotherapy and improved surgical techniques, the overall 5-year survival has remained below that of many other malignancies and significant disparities continue to persist. Black American males tend to present with later-stage disease, are less likely to undergo appropriate staging and thus, have a higher lung cancer mortality. The National Lung Screening Trial I (NLST) determined that low-dose CT (LDCT) screening could reduce lung cancer specific mortality by nearly 20% and overall mortality by 6.7%. However, studies suggest that clinically useful models for improved lung cancer risk stratification will be essential to the identification of those most likely to benefit from screening while minimizing unnecessary screening and associated risks. In NLST, only 4% of enrolled participants were Black Americans. Recent investigation demonstrates that current screening eligibility criteria are insufficient in identifying Black Americans at risk for lung cancer a large percentage of whom are diagnosed at a younger age than White Americans and with less tobacco consumption. As a result, current draft recommendations include reducing both age and smoking screening eligibility to 50 years of age and 20 pack years respectively with a goal of narrowing gaps in disparities in early lung cancer diagnosis and outcome. Here, we will review current models for lung cancer risk stratification that incorporate sociodemographic factors, comorbid illnesses and non-invasive biomarkers and discuss their clinical application to diverse populations.

Citation Format: Patrick Nana-Sinkam. Lung Cancer Risk Assessment in Diverse Populations: One Size Cannot Fit All [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA16.
Abstract IA26: Learning from and Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Clinical Trials: The ECOG-ACRIN Experience
Authors: Sparano Joseph A.
Published: December 2020

Although breast cancer incidence and mortality have declined by about 35% in the United States since 1990, mortality rates have declined less in Black women, contributing to a widening of the racial gap which has contributed to about a 35% higher mortality rate for Black women compared with others. Black women are more likely to present with advanced stage disease, have triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), exhibit greater non-adherence and poorer tolerance to chemotherapy and endocrine therapy, and have more comorbidities and experience more disparities in care. With regard to ethnicity, Hispanic women also exhibit higher rates of TNBC, but otherwise experience similar outcomes as non-Hispanic women. In order to disentangle factors that may be contributing to inferior outcome associated with Black race, we evaluated the association between Black race or Hispanic ethnicity and recurrence in the population served by Montefiore Medical Center and in 3 clinical trials (E1199, E5103, TAILORx) coordinated by the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group, as summarized in Table 1. The results were remarkably consistent – Black race was associated with significantly higher recurrence risk (1.39-1.84-fold) in multivariate models in ER+ breast cancer, but not ER-negative breast cancer. Similar findings were not observed for Hispanic women. In the TAILORx trial, there were no significant differences in distribution of 21-gene recurrence score, nor ER, PR, or HER2 RNA expression levels, by race or ethnicity. In other analysis, we have reported specific genetic variants associated with higher risk of taxane-induced neuropathy in Black women (PMID: 26138065). Our findings highlight the need for greater representation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials, and that additional studies designed specifically to determine if socioeconomic factors, biological factors, and/or other factors contribute to these disparities. ECOG-ACRIN is currently conducting a clinical trial to prospectively validate genetic variants associated with higher risk of peripheral neuropathy in Black women with breast cancer receiving taxane therapy (EAZ171; NCT04001829).

Citation Format: Joseph A. Sparano. Learning from and Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Clinical Trials: The ECOG-ACRIN Experience [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA26.
Abstract IA38: A perspective on global cancer disparities from the NCI Center for Global Health
Authors: Gopal Satish
Published: December 2020

Dr. Gopal, Director of the NCI Center for Global Health, will provide an overview of the center, including its work to address global cancer health disparities. Opportunities to synergize health disparities research efforts across domestic and international settings will be discussed.

Citation Format: Satish Gopal. A perspective on global cancer disparities from the NCI Center for Global Health [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA38.
Abstract IA44: Equity and access: Looking upstream to make lasting improvements in cancer outcomes
Authors: Pruitt Sandi L.
Published: December 2020

Many cancer researchers are trained to quantify disparities between racial groups and to identify race as the risk factor. However, if we look upstream, we can identify that structural racism, not race, is a fundamental cause of racial inequity. Likewise, we frequently conceptualize access with a downstream lens, focusing on access to clinical trials or treatment, and we ignore upstream factors such as equitable access to economic opportunity and racial justice. Cancer disparities start where we live, learn, work, and play. These upstream factors, often referred to as the social determinants of health, are increasingly acknowledged, but not well integrated into cancer research and intervention efforts. Examples from recent research will be presented that highlight the role of upstream factors, especially neighborhood factors, in creating and sustaining cancer inequities. Suggestions will be provided for how cancer research can expand beyond our downstream biomedical frameworks in order to correctly identify and intervene on upstream factors that cause inequities in cancer outcomes.

Citation Format: Sandi L. Pruitt. Equity and access: Looking upstream to make lasting improvements in cancer outcomes [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA44.
Abstract PO-004: Association between county-level socioeconomic characteristics and health indicators with COVID-19 deaths in Florida
Authors: Kiros Gebre-Egziabher , Gaddis Kira
Published: December 2020

COVID-19 has exposed the long standing racial health disparities and social inequities in the United States. It has also brought into focus the need of the vulnerable communities including racial and ethnic minority groups. health care reforms. The purpose of this analysis is to investigate county-level COVID-19 death rates with key socioeconomic and health indicators using correlation analysis. Death rates are calculated using deaths that occurred in Florida (n = 7,022 deaths) between March 1, 2020 and July 31, 2020. We hypothesize that counties with higher uninsured and older people have higher COVID-19 death rates. Data on COVID-19 county statistics is obtained from Florida Department of Health. County-level health indicators are obtained from Florida Health Community Health Assessment Resource Tool Set (CHARTS) and the County Health Rankings and Roadmap program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Spearman rank correlation, a non-parametric method, is applied to measure associations. We find that higher share of uninsured adults in a county is significantly associated with higher death rates from COVID-19. In addition, percent older than 65 is correlated death rates. However, contrary to other previous studies, we do not find a correlation between share of African Americans and death rates in Florida counties. Further, we do not find that death rates are correlated with measures of diabetes, smoking, and obesity. The policy implication of this investigation points to the vulnerability of communities without health insurance to the COVID-19 pandemic and the urgent need for health care reform. This research was supported by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities of the National Institutes of Health under the Award Number U54 MD007582. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. This research was also made possible by Grant Numbers U54CA233396, U54CA233444, & U54CA233465 from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI). Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NCI.

Citation Format: Gebre-Egziabher Kiros, Kira Gaddis. Association between county-level socioeconomic characteristics and health indicators with COVID-19 deaths in Florida [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-004.
Abstract PO-053: A culturally-sensitive and linguistically competent community-based hepatitis B and C intervention for underserved Asian American communities
Authors: Traub Kerry , Zhu Lin , Lu Wenyue , Ibrahim Safa , Yi Elizabeth , Wong Ada , Gonzalez Evelyn , Fraser Marilyn , Tan Yin , Ma Grace , Ogunwobi Olorunseun , Yeh Ming-Chin
Published: December 2020

Background The overall cancer rate is going down across the U.S., however liver cancer incidence is increasing, especially in Philadelphia. Approximately 70% of liver cancer cases are caused by hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV). Notably, Asian Americans (AAs) are disproportionally affected by liver cancer with mortality rate 60% higher than that of non-Hispanic White. Methods We partnered with community-based organizations (CBOs) using community-based participatory research approach. CBOs were involved in all steps of the project, and co- developed/co-delivered community education to increase awareness of liver cancer prevention and screening in Philadelphia. 152 Asian American community members recruited from collaborating CBOs and participated in the educational workshops.

Demographic information and knowledge on HBV, HCV, and liver cancer were collected before and after the education. Statistical analysis of Chi-square and t-test were conducted to measure the education’s effect. Results Less than half of the participants rated their health condition as “good and above” (48.95%). With regard to liver cancer prevention awareness, less than one third of the participants had heard about HBV (31.58%) and HCV (21.05%) from their primary care providers, and even fewer of them ever got HBV (21.71%) and HCV (2.63%) testing. Participants’ knowledge increased significantly from the pre-test to the post-intervention evaluation (7.39 vs. 9.24, p<0.001). Conclusions Our findings add to the growing body of evidence on the effectiveness of culturally sensitive and linguistically competent education intervention in raising awareness and increasing knowledge of cancer prevention in underserved communities. We will discuss the success and lessons learned regarding engaging community, participant recruitment, retention, and implementation strategies.

Citation Format: Kerry Traub, Lin Zhu, Wenyue Lu, Safa Ibrahim, Elizabeth Yi, Ada Wong, Evelyn Gonzalez, Marilyn Fraser, Yin Tan, Grace Ma, Olorunseun Ogunwobi, Ming-Chin Yeh. A culturally-sensitive and linguistically competent community-based hepatitis B and C intervention for underserved Asian American communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-053.
Abstract PO-054: Hepatitis B and C screening and knowledge of liver cancer in underserved Chinese American adults in New York City: A community-based assessment
Authors: Lu Wenyue , Traub Kerry , Ibrahim Safa , Yi Elizabeth , Wong Ada , Gonzalez Evelyn , Zhu Lin , Fraser Marilyn A. , Tan Yin , Ogunwobi Olorunseun , Ma Grace X. , Yeh Ming-Chin
Published: December 2020

Background Of all liver cancer cases detected in the United States, approximately 70% are caused by hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV). Asian Americans (AAs) are disproportionally affected by liver cancer, with a mortality rate 60% higher than that of non-Hispanic White. In recent years the incidence rate of liver cancer in New York City has been 35% higher than the national average. Methods In New York City, we collaboratively developed and conducted a liver cancer prevention education with community-based organizations to increase awareness of liver cancer prevention and screening. Assessment data was collected from Asian American community members who participated in our educational workshops. Preliminary findings from 53 participants' knowledge on HBV, HCV, and liver cancer prior to the intervention, will be reported in this presentation. Chi-square and t-test were used to conduct data analysis. Results Almost half of the participants reported hearing about HBV (48.1%) and HCV (60.4%) from their medical team, and even fewer of them ever received HBV (37.7%) and HCV (9.4%) testing. Participants were knowledgeable on HBV/HCV transmission (scored 7.9 out of 10), they lack the knowledge on liver cancer risk factors (scored 1.9 out of 5). Those who were covered with health insurance were more knowledgeable on identifying risk factors of liver cancer than those uncovered (1.94 vs. 1.00, p<0.001). Conclusions Our findings show that there is a pressing need for educational intervention, especially in New York City, to promote liver cancer interventions among at-risk Asian Americans.

Citation Format: Wenyue Lu, Kerry Traub, Safa Ibrahim, Elizabeth Yi, Ada Wong, Evelyn Gonzalez, Lin Zhu, Marilyn A. Fraser, Yin Tan, Olorunseun Ogunwobi, Grace X. Ma, Ming-Chin Yeh. Hepatitis B and C screening and knowledge of liver cancer in underserved Chinese American adults in New York City: A community-based assessment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-054.
Abstract PO-065: Gauging U54 PACHE effectiveness through an analysis of publications
Authors: Behar-Horenstein Linda S. , Horenstein Max D. , Richey Joyce M.
Published: December 2020

What is known about the impact of PACHE can be assessed through varied evaluative methods. Describing the scope of center publications offers one type of insight.

Using document review, 963 publicly accessible NIH RePORT publications across the 16 funded U54 Partnerships to Advance Cancer Health Equity (PACHE) center programs were identified. The authors read each study and determined if it they met inclusion criteria: an evidence-based study that presented quantitative or qualitative results, a statement of purpose, overview of methods, presentation of results, and a discussion or conclusion section. Position papers and duplications were excluded from this review. Using the remaining 868 publications, the authors determined the frequency of publications across programs by longevity; reported the frequency of studies focused on cancer health disparities; determined the proportion of institutions serving underserved health disparity populations, underrepresented students (ISUPS) co- and lead-authored works; and categorized the scope of studies by commonalities in their reported purposes. Findings showed that: (1) center longevity was not necessarily related to the number of publications, (2) less than 20% of studies focused on cancer health disparities (CHD), (3) ISUPU co-authors appeared in 72% of publications while lead authors were 48%, (4) 6.07% publications focused on cancer diagnosis, screening, treatment, and risk factors; 57.50% studies were mechanistic; 21.53% focused on the impact of interventions on health promotion, prevention, and quality of life; 5.62% studies were related to educational outcomes; and 9.28% studies were classified as epidemiological/survey outcomes.

One of the primary purposes of PACHE centers is CHD research. Thus, we advocate increasing the frequency of CHD-focused publications. We also suggest increasing the number of ISUPU lead-authored papers. To align with the PACHE mission, we also recommend increasing the number of studies focused on cancer diagnosis, screening, treatment, and risk factors, and the impact of interventions on health promotion, prevention, and quality of life. To demonstrate the effectiveness and impact of training, increasing the number educational outcome studies is also proposed.

Citation Format: Linda S. Behar-Horenstein, Max D. Horenstein, Joyce M. Richey. Gauging U54 PACHE effectiveness through an analysis of publications [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-065.
Abstract PO-087: Anal cancer and its association with HPV16 lineage B in African Americans
Authors: Ashktorab Hassan , Laiyemo Adeyinka , Mirabello Lisa , Brim Hassan
Published: December 2020

Background: Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) is one of the most common and carcinogenic HPV types associated with high risk of anal, vagina, vulva, penis and cervical neoplastic transformations. However, many genetic variants exist within this virus and not all seem to have the same carcinogenic potential. Aim: To determine HPV16 lineages and their association with risk of high-grade anal lesions in African Americans in an inner-city hospital. Methods: We reviewed medical records of 370 African Americans with anal lesions from Jan. 2007 to Dec. 2015. This study was approved by Howard University Institutional Review Board. Demographic, clinical and pathological data including HPV, HIV, HCV (hepatitis C virus), diabetes mellitus, hypertension and body mass index (BMI) were collected. DNA was extracted from a subset of HPV16-positive patients with FFPE tissue samples (72 patients, 111 samples) and used for HPV16 whole-genome sequencing. We assessed HPV16 variant lineages and associations with disease stage. Statistical analyses were performed using Chi-square tests, Student’s t-tests, and logistic regression. Odds ratios (OR) and p-values were calculated for comparisons of normal/condyloma/high-grade dysplasia (HGD) vs. squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and for normal/condyloma vs. HGD. The most common HPV16 A1 sublineage was used as a reference in these comparisons. Results: Males represented 75% of the patients (n=276), with a median age of 44 years and BMI of 25.8 kg/m2. The frequency of condyloma, high-grade dysplasia, SCC and adenocarcinoma was 191 (52%), 26 (7%), 31 (8%) and 8 (2%), respectively. The frequency of HPV, HIV, and HCV was 231 (68%), 147 (43%) and 42 (12%), respectively. HPV and HIV were risk factors for condyloma and dysplasia (P<0.05). All four main lineages of HPV16 (A,B,C,D) were detected in our specimens, with sublineage A1 most common. Lineage B, also named the African-1 HPV16 lineage because it is most common in Africa, had the strongest association with SCC (OR=10.5) whether alone or in combination with lineages A4 and D (OR=10.5), although with a lower statistical significance (0.054 vs. 0.009). As for HGD, lineage B along with A4, C and D only gave an OR of 1.4. Conclusion: We show that the majority of patients with anal lesions are young males with HPV and HIV co-infections. HPV16 lineage B was associated with a high risk of SCC development.

Citation Format: Hassan Ashktorab, Adeyinka Laiyemo, Lisa Mirabello, Hassan Brim. Anal cancer and its association with HPV16 lineage B in African Americans [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-087.
Abstract PO-123: Disparities in optimal treatment of oral and pharyngeal cancers by ethnicity and smoking status
Authors: Fechtel Hannah J. , Guo Yi
Published: December 2020

Oral and Pharyngeal Cancer (OPC) is a deadly cancer with complex treatment plans and outcomes. In practice, surgery followed by radiation or chemotherapy is considered the “optimal treatment” associated with better OPC survival. However, not all OPC patients receive the optimal treatment. Prior research has documented that survival varies by smoking status and ethno-racial groups, but little is known about the relationship between a patient’s smoking status, ethnicity, and the choices they make about cancer treatment post diagnosis. To shed light on this under- studied issue, data from the Florida Cancer Data System were analyzed. A logit model was built with the response variable treatment pattern arranged into three levels: surgery only (reference), surgery followed by radiation or chemotherapy, and other treatment types. The predictors included smoking status, race-ethnicity, smoking by race-ethnicity interaction, health insurance, age at diagnosis, gender, and marital status. Overall, the odds of receiving optimal treatment for Non-Hispanic Whites and Non-Hispanic Blacks are 29%-34% (p<0.001) greater than the odds of optimal treatment for Hispanics. One significant smoking by race-ethnicity interaction was found between Non-Hispanic Blacks and current smoking status, making Non-Hispanic Blacks who currently smoke less likely to receive optimal treatment than those who do not smoke.

Citation Format: Hannah J. Fechtel, Yi Guo. Disparities in optimal treatment of oral and pharyngeal cancers by ethnicity and smoking status [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-123.
Abstract PO-141: Dietary and cultural practices of minorities in New York City as an indicator of colorectal cancer screening behavior and screening intent
Authors: Johnson Cicely K. , Ogunwobi Olorunseun , Ma Grace
Published: December 2020

There are significant racial and gender disparities in health behaviors and health outcomes in the United States, and these differences are vast and not well understood. As colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, and African-Americans have the highest colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates of all the racial groups in the U.S., it is essential to understand the interplay between individual health behaviors that may be unique racial patterns and health outcomes. This research study is a pilot study that is part of a larger study with existing preliminary data. This pilot study examined dietary habits and practices of individuals of individuals identifying as Black as a predictor for colorectal cancer screening. The linkages between race and health behaviors have been the subject of research, however much work remains to improve understanding of factors associated with preventive cancer screening and the differences by race and within race. This study addresses the relationship between dietary habits and screening behavior and intent. Comparisons will be explored through the lenses of ethnicity and gender. To address the significant gap in literature, survey data was collected on dietary habits and screening behavior (most recent exam and intent to screen within a year) from 500 individuals in the boroughs of New York City. Participants are those who identify as Black and are from multiple ethnicities. This study evaluates the correlation between individuals with a higher intake of healthy options, and their intent to screen for colorectal cancer within a year. This study utilizes a survey tool that includes a modification of the Eating Habits Questionnaire of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, blended with a modification of the Motivators of and Barriers to Health-Smart Behaviors inventory (MB-HSBI).

Future work of this study is concerned with gathering qualitative data around the interrelationship between culture and diet as it pertains to screening behavior and intent, and the multiple variations of that relationship by ethnicity. Results of these studies can provide health educators, providers, and policy makers information that is critically in an effort to create culturally relevant health promotion materials within the Black community.

Citation Format: Cicely K. Johnson, Olorunseun Ogunwobi, Grace Ma. Dietary and cultural practices of minorities in New York City as an indicator of colorectal cancer screening behavior and screening intent [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-141.
Abstract PO-154: Establishing the prevalence of high-risk HPV infection and identifying associated risk factors in Santo Domingo, Ecuador
Authors: Foster Hanna , Alexandrova Maria , Ghiaseddin Roya , Gaus David , Taylor Katherine , Larco Danny , Stack Sharon
Published: December 2020

Human papillomavirus is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects men and women. For women, persistent infection with high-risk HPV genotypes is a significant risk factor for cervical cancer, and HPV infection is more prevalent in developing countries than in developed countries. Furthermore, women in developing countries experience a greater number of cervical cancer cases attributable to HPV infection than women in developed countries. In Ecuador, recent studies have shown an increased prevalence of high-risk HPV genotypes in certain regions, specifically Quito and in Southern Ecuador. No study has analyzed the prevalence of high-risk HPV in Santo Domingo, Ecuador. In this quantitative study, the prevalence of high-risk HPV in Santo Domingo was determined by analyzing cervical cytology samples taken from pregnant women visiting three local health clinics. Women younger than 18 years of age were excluded. The study also analyzed associated risk factors for infection. Overall, 24.1% of participants tested positive for high-risk HPV infection. Genotypes falling into the “other high risk” category (i.e. HPV- HPV-31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68) were the most prevalent. This result differed slightly from findings in comparable studies completed in Ecuador where HPV-16 was found to be most prevalent among the study population. Age and Pap smear history were independently determined to be significant predictors of HPV status. These findings indicate the significance of routine female wellness and gynecological screenings at Saludesa Hospital, and Augusto Egas and Santa Martha clinics. Furthermore, results also emphasize the importance of vaccine use as primary prevention measures against HPV infection in adolescents in Santo Domingo. Currently, Saludesa Hospital, Augusto Egas and Santa Martha clinics do not offer vaccinations for protection against HPV infection. However, girls between ages of 11 and 12 seeking care at these facilities would likely benefit from preventive reproductive health care, including access to vaccinations, to protect against high- risk HPV infection. Education regarding the epidemiology of high-risk HPV infection could enhance the public’s acceptance of screening and intervention programs.

Citation Format: Hanna Foster, Maria Alexandrova, Roya Ghiaseddin, David Gaus, Katherine Taylor, Danny Larco, Sharon Stack. Establishing the prevalence of high-risk HPV infection and identifying associated risk factors in Santo Domingo, Ecuador [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-154.
Abstract PO-199: Trends in stage at diagnosis for lung cancer in the U.S., 2009-2016
Authors: Offor Paris , Obrochta Chelsea , Schumacher Ben , Thompson Caroline
Published: December 2020

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In 2013, the U.S Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) began recommending lung cancer screening for current and past smokers with at least 30 pack-years of smoking history. Evidence shows that with compliance, lung cancer screening may lower lung cancer-related deaths, but attendance may not be consistent across smokers from different races or geography. One way to determine if screening proved to be effective is by a shift towards earlier stages of diagnosis at the population level. In this study, we investigate if such a stage shift has occurred since the implementation of the USPSTF guidelines, and if disparities existed by race and/or geographical regions. Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) for lung cancers diagnosed 2009 to 2016. We compared yearly trends in local/regional vs distant stage at diagnosis before and after 2013, stratified by patient race (white vs black), and SEER geographical region. 320,116 lung cancers were diagnosed between 2009 and 2016. Among whites, the proportions diagnosed at stage 4 was 53.9% in 2009 to 48.4% post 2013 and 48.4% in 2016 and the proportion diagnosed at stage 1 was 22.1% in pre 2013 and 28.1% in post 2013.For blacks, the proportion diagnosed at stage 4 was 58.2% in 2009 and 54.7% post 2013 and the proportion diagnosed at stage 1 was 17.6% in pre 2013 and 21.9% in post 2013. Overall, a decrease in stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis was seen and an increase in stage 1 for both blacks and whites. (10.2% relative decrease for whites and 6.0% relative decrease for blacks). Results, however, varied by regions. Northeast regions had more later-stage decreasements among Whites (13.0% pre 2013 vs 7.2% post 2013) In the Southeast region, blacks and whites had smaller comparable reductions in proportions of stage 4 diagnosis (3.1% vs 3.0% overall). Lung cancer diagnosis has been decreasing over time, and stage shift is evident in some populations, however not uniformly by race and geographical regions. Blacks are still more likely to be diagnosed later-stage overall and by all regions in comparison to white pointing to problems with uptake of screening guidelines.

Citation Format: Paris Offor, Chelsea Obrochta, Ben Schumacher, Caroline Thompson. Trends in stage at diagnosis for lung cancer in the U.S., 2009-2016 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-199.
Abstract PO-235: Choroid plexus papilloma: A report of a benign but rare entity
Authors: Laharwani Hansini , Kumar Vijay , Neill James
Published: December 2020

Choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) accounts for <1% of all the intracranial neoplasms and is a rare benign neoplasm with common sites being the fourth ventricle in adults and lateral ventricle in children. They are occasionally bilateral with associated hydrocephalus. A 28-year-old female with no past medical history presented to the emergency department with a fall and witnessed seizure. On her way to the bathroom, she felt dizzy and missed a step leading her to trip and fall hitting her headfirst. While on the floor she was witnessed a seizure and brought to the emergency department where she had postictal confusion, slow speech, and was unable to recall events after falling. She also complained about fatigue, lack of energy, sleepiness, loss of interest, sad mood, and suicidal thoughts. CT scan demonstrated a 2.6 cm fourth ventricular mass with internal calcifications. Posterior to the mass there was a subtle increased density which was favored as additional calcifications with moderate obstruction of the 4th ventricle and mild ventriculomegaly. Differential diagnosis included subependymoma, ependymoma as well as astrocytoma. Histopathological examination revealed CPP with appropriately controlled stains to be positive for S100 and Ki-67 to be approximately 3% and negative for p63. CPP is derived from neuroectoderm and is designated as Grade I neoplasms by WHO and Grade II is reserved for atypical CPP. The most optimal treatment strategy is resection which is curative with very little chance of recurrence after a gross-total resection in approximately 96% of the cases. One of the management challenges faced is the vascularity of the tumor which is due to the intraventricular location of tumor which has a rich anastomotic supply of choroidal blood vessels. Due to the rich vascularity of the tumor embolization is considered as an adjunct to reduce the intravascular blood loss intraoperatively with the overall mortality ranging from 0-25% and the mortality rate from the blood loss to be approximately 12%. Currently, the patient is doing well without any evidence of metastasis. Hence it is important to be aware of this rare and benign entity and endoscopic removal is recommended despite the intraoperative bleeding it might cause.

Citation Format: Hansini Laharwani, Vijay Kumar, James Neill. Choroid plexus papilloma: A report of a benign but rare entity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-235.
Abstract PO-275: Assessing human papillomavirus vaccination-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among young men who have sex with men
Authors: Mann-Barnes Tyrell , Bhimla Aisha , Lin Timmy , Duro-Aina Adebola Florish , Ma Grace
Published: December 2020

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States. HPV is acknowledged as one of the causes of anal cancer, with a 20-fold increased risk in men who have sex with men (MSM), when compared to age-matched heterosexual men. MSM are at potential high risk of contracting HPV, due to observed prevalence of risk factors such as a high number of sexual partners, rate of partner change, compromised immune system, and age.

Vaccinations classified as HPV4 and HPV9 protect the aforementioned high-risk serotypes. Among MSM studies, few have focused on the needs, perceptions, knowledge, and intentions of young-MSM (Y-MSM) aged 18 to 27 years old pertaining to HPV diagnosis, associated anal cancer risks, and HPV vaccination intentions. To address this significant gap in the literature, we designed a pilot study to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to HPV vaccine and explore the contextual facilitators and barriers to HPV vaccination among Y-MSM, a vulnerable and medically underserved population in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. First, we conducted an online survey assessing vaccination intentions and background knowledge among 400 young-MSM living in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. Second, we examine the geospatial associations between the accessibility of HPV screening services, HPV diagnosis, and knowledge of anal cancer risks among 100 high-risk black and Hispanic MSM. The preliminary data will inform proactive and responsive methods to identify the needs of young- MSM pertaining to HPV vaccination intent, the prevalence of HPV within the population, and associated anal cancer risks to reduce disparities among at-risk Y- MSM. We will present results from preliminary data analysis and discuss the process of study design and implementation. We will also discuss implications for future research and public health interventions in HPV vaccine uptake among Y-MSM and other disparity populations.

Citation Format: Tyrell Mann-Barnes, Aisha Bhimla, Timmy Lin, Adebola Florish Duro-Aina, Grace Ma. Assessing human papillomavirus vaccination-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among young men who have sex with men [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: Thirteenth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2020 Oct 2-4. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(12 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-275.