bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract PO-130: The mitochondrial protein ATAD3A promotes cisplatin resistance in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lang Liwei , Duncan Leslie , Jensen Caleb , Shay Chloe , Teng Yong
Published: December 2020

Cisplatin is well-known for its damaging effect on nuclear DNA, leading to cell death due to blockage of DNA replication and transcription, but this activity cannot fully explain why cisplatin displays cytotoxicity in post-mitotic tissues, suggesting other mechanisms may be in play. Many studies have challenged the current model of cisplatin resistance, however, the precise mechanism behind is still unknown. Here, we report that the mitochondrial protein ATAD3A functions as an oncogene in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), promoting cell proliferation and enhancing the ability of colony formation and anchorage-independent growth. Moreover, ATAD3A is involved in cisplatin resistance in OSCC, and knockdown of ATAD3A enhanced the sensitivity of OSCC cells to cisplatin. It appears that ATAD3A-mediated cisplatin resistance is regulated by other mechanisms rather than its expression levels, as evidenced by overexpression of a Walker A (WA) dead mutant of ATAD3A leads to a suppression in OSCC cell growth and resensitizes cisplatin-resistant OSCC cells to this drug, indicating a potent dominant-negative effect of defective ATP-binding of ATAD3A in chemotherapy. Our study demonstrates for the first time that ATAD3A plays an oncogenic role in OSCC and abrogating its ATP-binding ability may represent a promising regimen for better treatment of patients with OSCC, especially for those who suffer from cisplatin-resistance.

Citation Format: Liwei Lang, Leslie Duncan, Caleb Jensen, Chloe Shay, Yong Teng. The mitochondrial protein ATAD3A promotes cisplatin resistance in oral squamous cell carcinoma [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-130.
Abstract PO-131: Inter-tumoral heterogeneity of progressive disease in melanoma patients treated with pembrolizumab
Authors: Topp Brian , Kumar Rukmini , Mayawala Kapil , de Alwis Dinesh , Hellmann Matt D. , Snyder Alexandra
Published: December 2020

Introduction: In clinical trials of patients treated with pembrolizumab, RECIST-defined progressive disease (PD) is often assumed to reflect generalized lack or loss of efficacy. However, mixed lesion-level responses within a given patient may reflect more clinically and immunobiologically-relevant heterogeneity than has been previously appreciated. To examine the heterogeneity and clinical impact of progressive disease, we characterized the patient-level and lesion-level responses in 511 patients with melanoma treated with pembrolizumab. Methods: Of 655 patients with melanoma treated with pembrolizumab in KEYNOTE-001 (NCT01295827), 511 patients had at least two scans and qualified for analysis. Patients were categorized as primary progression (RECIST-defined PD at first scan) or secondary progression (RECIST-defined PD as second scan or beyond). The percent change in diameter of overall and individual target lesions were examined, as well as patterns and timing of progression in non-target and new lesions. Results: Of 511 patients, 308 (60%) developed progression at some point during the study (primary progression 211/308, 69%; secondary progression 97/308, 31%). Of patients with primary progression, 105 (50%) had increased tumor burden (>20% sum growth), while 90 (43%) had stable tumor burden (-30-+20% sum change) and 16 (8%) had decreased tumor burden (>-30% sum decrease). Lesion-level heterogeneity was substantial, with 167 (79%) of patients having at least one shrinking metastasis despite primary progression. In patients with secondary progression, timing of onset was variable (median 56 weeks, +/- 35 weeks). Only 15% of patients with acquired resistance, (5% of patients with PD), displayed rebound of all lesions. The remaining patients displayed rebound of a subset of lesions (38%) and/or appearance of new metastatic lesions (46%). Lesion-level responses that have been achieved often persisted at/after onset of secondary progression. Conclusions: Patterns of progression to pembrolizumab are heterogeneous. In primary progression, there is evidence of some lesion-level benefit in the majority of patients. In secondary progression, many lesions demonstrate continued benefit despite isolated/oligo sites of progression. Consideration of these patterns may inform optimal treatment strategies. Lesion-specific analysis of biomarkers may be necessary to improve correlative analyses and response prediction.

Citation Format: Brian Topp, Rukmini Kumar, Kapil Mayawala, Dinesh de Alwis, Matt D. Hellmann, Alexandra Snyder. Inter-tumoral heterogeneity of progressive disease in melanoma patients treated with pembrolizumab [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-131.
Abstract PO-133: Breast tumors maintain a reservoir of subclonal diversity during primary expansion
Authors: Minussi Darlan Conterno , Nicholson Michael , Ye Hanghui , Davis Alexander , Wang Kaile , Sei Emi , Du Haowei , Rabbani Mashiat , Peng Cheng , Hu Min , Bai Shanshan , McDonald Thomas , Schalck Aislyn , Casasent Anna , Barrera Angelica , Chen Hui , Lim Bora , Arun Banu , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Michor Franziska , Navin Nicholas
Published: December 2020

Our knowledge of copy number evolution during the expansion of primary breast tumors is limited. To investigate this process, we developed a single-cell, single-molecule DNA sequencing method and performed copy number analysis of 13,808 single cells from six triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) and two breast cancer cell lines. Our data shows that breast tumors and cell lines are comprised of a large milieu (17-26) of subclones that are organized into a few (4-8) major superclones. Phylogenetic analysis and mathematical modeling show that copy number evolution was ongoing during the expansion of the primary tumor, after the initial punctuated burst of genomic instability. By expanding single daughter cells in culture, we show that cancer cells re-diversify their genomes and do not retain isogenic properties. These data elucidate modes of evolution and show that TNBCs maintain a vast reservoir of subclonal copy number diversity during the expansion of the primary tumor mass.

Citation Format: Darlan Conterno Minussi, Michael Nicholson, Hanghui Ye, Alexander Davis, Kaile Wang, Emi Sei, Haowei Du, Mashiat Rabbani, Cheng Peng, Min Hu, Shanshan Bai, Thomas McDonald, Aislyn Schalck, Anna Casasent, Angelica Barrera, Hui Chen, Bora Lim, Banu Arun, Funda Meric-Bernstam, Franziska Michor, Nicholas Navin. Breast tumors maintain a reservoir of subclonal diversity during primary expansion [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-133.
Abstract PR05: Mapping the tumor and microenvironmental evolution underlying DCIS progression through multiplexed ion beam imaging
Authors: Risom Tyler , Rivero Belen , Liu Candace , Baranski Alex , Strand Siri , Greenwald Noah , McCaffrey Erin , Varma Sushama , Keren Leeat , Srivastava Sucheta , Zhu Chunfang , Vennam Sujay , Hwang Shelley , Colditz Graham , Bendall Sean , West Robert , Angelo Michael
Published: December 2020

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) is a pre-invasive lesion that accounts for nearly 20% of new breast cancer diagnoses. Of these cases, about half will progress to invasive breast cancer (IBC) within ten years. However, because diagnostic criteria for delineating low risk lesions from those likely to progress to IBC have not been identified, many patients are receiving unnecessary chemotherapy and surgery that can result in therapy-related morbidity and death. With this in mind, we used Multiplexed Ion Beam Imaging by time of flight (MIBI-TOF) and RNA-seq laser-capture microdissection (SMART-3SEQ) to construct a comprehensive spatial atlas describing the structure, function, and cellular composition of DCIS. MIBI-TOF and SMART-3SEQ were used to compare lesions from patients that later developed IBC with those from age- and history matched DCIS controls without recurrence. Using a 37-marker staining panel to interrogate 137 lesions, we identified 30 distinct cell populations of the epithelial, stromal, and immune lineages that were arranged in recurrent cellular microenvironments specific for DCIS or invasive disease. We observe a coordinated shift in the immune and stromal compartments as invasive disease arises, including an expansion of immune cell diversity and transition to reactive stromal phenotypes in synchronous DCIS + IBC, which was distinct from the macrophage-dominant microenvironment of recurrent IBC. Single-cell segmentation using a deep learning model was combined with pixel-level coexpression analysis to determine how thickness, continuity, and phenotype of ductal myoepithelium changes as tumors progress from a pre-invasive state. These data were incorporated into a comprehensive model which was subsequently used to identify a subset of features that correlate with disease-free survival following DCIS tumor resection. Taken together, these features represent important prognostic metrics that can be used to separate pre-invasive from indolent DCIS tumors, and allow for tailored therapy that improves patient outcomes and quality of life in this disease.

Citation Format: Tyler Risom, Belen Rivero, Candace Liu, Alex Baranski, Siri Strand, Noah Greenwald, Erin McCaffrey, Sushama Varma, Leeat Keren, Sucheta Srivastava, Chunfang Zhu, Sujay Vennam, Shelley Hwang, Graham Colditz, Sean Bendall, Robert West, Michael Angelo. Mapping the tumor and microenvironmental evolution underlying DCIS progression through multiplexed ion beam imaging [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 PR05.
Abstract IA10: The Prevent Anal Cancer Study: the assessment of novel opportunities for anal cancer screening during COVID-19
Authors: Nyitray Alan G.
Published: December 2020

Cervical cancer screening began 70 years ago in high-resource settings and it has substantially lowered cervical cancer incidence in those settings; even so, incidence remains very high in many low and middle-income settings. As screening for other human papillomavirus-associated cancers is considered, self-screening approaches may lower some barriers to screening including cost, reluctance to access clinics, and examination embarrassment. The Prevent Anal Cancer (PAC) Study is recruiting men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people who have sex with men, aged ≥25 years in three cities in the United States (Chicago, Houston, and Milwaukee) to test anal self-exams and compliance with home-based self-swabbing. The PAC Study is comprised of two randomized clinical trials: NCT03489707 and NCT04090060. It is recruiting 1200 HIV+ and HIV- persons through 2023: 400 in Milwaukee to test home-based self-swabbing and 400 each in Chicago and Houston to test anal self-exams (ASEs). The Milwaukee cohort will evaluate compliance with annual home-based self-swabbing vs clinic-based HPV DNA specimen collection and determine factors associated with annual screening compliance; estimate the influence that home-based vs clinic-based screening has on the uptake of high-resolution anoscopy; estimate the association between high-risk HPV persistence and anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL); and estimate the association between HPV-16/host DNA methylation and anal HSIL. The Chicago/Houston cohort will be taught about anal anatomy, pathology, and the procedure for an ASE. The primary objective is to compare the participant’s ASE result with the clinician’s gold-standard Digital Anal Rectal Exam (DARE) to determine concordance, sensitivity and specificity. A secondary objective uses mathematical modeling to estimate the cost-effectiveness, impact on survival and health-related quality-of-life of ASE and DARE. Enrollment in both studies was suspended due to COVID-19. Due to concerns about potential COVID-19-related confounding of key associations, a 437-person online cohort of the same target populations was enrolled to assess COVID-19 impact over 5 longitudinal surveys. This presentation will provide an overview of anal cancer incidence, the PAC Study protocols, how COVID-19 may impact the studies’ results, and data collected to date to assess that impact. This study is supported by grants from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (US).

Citation Format: Alan G. Nyitray. The Prevent Anal Cancer Study: the assessment of novel opportunities for anal cancer screening during COVID-19 [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 IA10.
Abstract IA33: The immunogenomic landscape of primary prostate cancer in African-American men
Authors: Lotan Tamara L.
Published: December 2020

African-American (AA) men have a 1.5-fold higher incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) than non-Latino White (WH) men and are nearly 2.5 times more likely to die from their disease. These disparities are likely due to a combination of social, environmental, and biological factors. Discerning the biological determinants of aggressive PCa in AA men remains a critical and unmet need in cancer health disparities research. Although there have been several large-scale genome sequencing studies that identified unique molecular drivers in primary and metastatic PCa, these have included few AA patients, even fewer with potentially lethal PCa, and have generally lacked clinical outcome data. Work by our group and others demonstrates that the most common somatic genomic alterations in primary PCa (such as ERG rearrangement and PTEN deletion) occur at significantly different frequencies in AA and WH men, providing the first direct evidence for molecular differences between PCa arising in AA and WH patients. Similarly, gene expression studies by other groups have consistently found that various immune response pathways are more highly expressed in PCa arising in AA compared to WH patients. However to date, few studies have integrated somatic molecular subtype data with immune tumor microenvironment (TME) characterization across different populations. To begin to address these knowledge gaps, we have studied primary PCa tissues from a unique cohort comprising 200 self-identified AA and 200 WH patients, matched by grade and other clinical-pathologic parameters, with long-term follow-up for biochemical recurrence and metastasis. This cohort is unique in that it is highly enriched for high-risk disease and has now been profiled for somatic genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic and tumor microenvironment landscapes, enabling one of the first integrative molecular portraits of AA PCa. We find that tumor infiltrating T-lymphocyte density is significantly correlated with underlying tumor molecular subtype and oncologic outcomes, but does not vary by racial ancestry. In contrast, using a combination of transcriptomic, methylation and quantitative immunohistochemical analyses, we demonstrate that tumor infiltrating B-lymphocyte density is significantly higher among AA compared to WH PCa patients, irrespective of molecular subtype, and trends towards improved outcomes.

Citation Format: Tamara L. Lotan. The immunogenomic landscape of primary prostate cancer in African-American 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 IA33.
Abstract PO-001: Evaluating medication adherence and its predictors among breast cancer survivors on oral endocrine therapy in a large academic medical center
Authors: Mohan Anjana , Paranjpe Rutugandha , Hwang Grace , Opsomer Carine , Lu Kelvin , Abajue Uzo , Zaghloul Hanna , Abughosh Susan , Trivedi Meghana
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Adherence to oral endocrine therapy (OET) reduces recurrence risk for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (HR+ BC). Refill data accessed through electronic health records (EHRs) may provide objective assessment of medication adherence. Our goal was to (1) determine feasibility of reviewing EHR to assess medication adherence, (2) evaluate 6-month OET adherence in HR+ BC patients, and (3) identify predictors of low adherence. Materials and methods: A single-center, retrospective study from May through December 2018 was conducted. Primary endpoint was adherence rate at 6-months. Chi-square and student’s t-test were used to compare adherent and non-adherent groups. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess predictors of adherence. Further, a subgroup analysis was further conducted among patients with stage 0 – III to assess the adherence in early-stage setting. Results: Of 492 patients, 338 patients were included in adherence analysis. Of 338 patients identified, 82% (n= 277) were adherent at 6 months. In the multivariable logistic model, race/ethnicity, type of endocrine therapy, and time on therapy were found to be significantly associated with adherence. Asian/Non-Hispanic and Caucasian/Hispanic patients were less likely to be adherent as compared to Caucasian/Non-Hispanics (Asian/Non-Hispanic OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.11-0.82, Caucasian/Hispanic OR 0.27; 95% CI 0.11-0.64). Patients on aromatase inhibitors were more likely to be adherent as compared to patients on tamoxifen (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.02-4.14). Lastly, patients on OET for 3-5 years had lower adherence as compared to patients on OET for 2 years or less (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.09-0.91). The subgroup analysis of patients with stage 0-III disease revealed similar findings that race/ethnicity and type of endocrine therapy were significant predictors of adherence. Conclusion: Accessing refill data through EHR was found to be feasible. Tamoxifen therapy, Asian/Non-Hispanic and Caucasian/Hispanic origin, and longer time on therapy predicted non-adherence in our patients.

Citation Format: Anjana Mohan, Rutugandha Paranjpe, Grace Hwang, Carine Opsomer, Kelvin Lu, Uzo Abajue, Hanna Zaghloul, Susan Abughosh, Meghana Trivedi. Evaluating medication adherence and its predictors among breast cancer survivors on oral endocrine therapy in a large academic medical center [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-001.
Abstract PO-010: Clustering of prostate cancer risk behaviors in West African men: The familial cohort study
Authors: Akinbule Oluwafunke , Oladoyinbo Catherine , Bolajoko Opeyemi
Published: December 2020

Background: The risk of developing prostate cancer (CaP) is higher in Black Africans compared to non-Hispanic whites. Smoking, alcohol consumption, Unhealthy dietary behavior (consumption of high fat, sugar and salt diets) and chronic exposure to pesticides have been strongly associated with the risk of CaP. However, there is scarcity of information on clustering pattern of these risk behaviors among African men. Specific Aim(s)/Methods: Cross-sectional data of 500 West-African Black men representative from the Prostate Cancer Familial Cohort Study was analyzed. Two- step cluster analysis was used to identify cluster groups and multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between behavioral risk factors and socio-demographic data. Results: The mean (95% CI) age and years spent in school were 47.93(47.05, 48.82) and 14.11(13.41, 14.80). The prevalence of smoking, alcohol drinking, chronic pesticide exposure and unhealthy diet was 26.2%, 44.7%, 39.0% and 82.4% respectively. Men of ages 35-34 years consumed High fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) diet most frequently. Most (96.6%) of the respondents were involved in at least one CaP risk behavior. Eleven clusters were identified in the clustering analysis, 3.4% had no risk, 24.4% had single risk behavior, 48.8% had double risk behaviors and 23.4% had multiple risk behaviors. Men with uncompleted college education were more likely to have multiple risk behaviors. Nigerian men were more likely to smoke or consume alcohol in addition to HFSS dietary intake.

Men with Chronic exposure to pesticide consuming HFSS diet and/or smoking were more likely to have low body mass index. Cameroon men were more likely to have chronic exposure to pesticide in addition to HFSS diet intake and/or smoking.

Conclusion: Policies and Behavior change interventions focused on double and multiple risk behaviors for CaP with consideration for socio-demoographic differences is essential for reducing the risk of CaP in Black men.

Citation Format: Oluwafunke Akinbule, Catherine Oladoyinbo, Opeyemi Bolajoko. Clustering of prostate cancer risk behaviors in West African men: The familial cohort study [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-010.
Abstract PO-027: A mixed-methods assessment of SDH screening tool and its contribution to health
Authors: Piña Sashiel , Scott Mary Alice , Thomas Rhianna , Tsabetaye McKayla , Kane Abigail , la Rosa Iván De , Chandler Kerianne , Ceballos Rachel
Published: December 2020

Inequities in social determinants of health (SDH) are major contributors to persistent health disparities across the cancer continuum. While screening tools to address patient non-medical social needs have been developed, little evidence of screening tool effectiveness or guidance on implementation is available. Our pilot study examines the use of a social needs screening tool in a high need primary health care setting in the U.S.-Mexico border region. A 4-item SDH screening tool assessed for food insecurity, lack of transportation, legal issues, or domestic violence. The study objective is to identify facilitators and barriers to appropriate referrals for social needs from the perspective of patients and providers. The PRECEDE-PROCEED model is used to guide intervention development. This study focuses on the PRECEDE (Pre- disposing, Reinforcing, and Enabling Constructs in Educational/Environmental Diagnosis and Evaluation) portion of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model to identify factors that impact the use of the developed SDH screening tool. Data collection uses a mixed-methods approach through the review of patient electronic medical records (EMR) and qualitative interviews of clinic patients, physicians, and staff. Data focuses on the factors influencing the use of the SDH screening tool, the subsequent social service referrals, as well as the associated rate of in-clinic SDH tool utilization through physician and patient reported use and EMR review. Data collection and analysis are currently ongoing. Themes identified during preliminary analyses include the importance of patient-physician relationships, barriers to SDH assessment during the clinical encounter, and potential policy and clinic-level facilitators to the screening tool’s implementation. The study findings will be applied to the development of an educational intervention targeting primary care residency programs. This intervention will improve the way providers address SDH needs of patients ensuring more wholistic patient care

Citation Format: Sashiel Piña, Mary Alice Scott, Rhianna Thomas, McKayla Tsabetaye, Abigail Kane, Iván De la Rosa, Kerianne Chandler, Rachel Ceballos. A mixed-methods assessment of SDH screening tool and its contribution to 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 PO-027.
Abstract PO-030: Working with Micronesian communities: A cultural competency training for healthcare professionals
Authors: Willingham Mark L. , Cassel Kevin
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the creation of a cultural competency training intended for healthcare professionals working with Hawaii’s Micronesian populations. Cultural competency training for health professionals has gained importance because it builds a better understanding of the social and cultural influences on patient’s health, and can work to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in health care. A cultural competency training was created through input from Hawaii’s Micronesian community members and the healthcare providers that serve this community to improve interactions and the delivery healthcare. This training will provide healthcare professionals with cultural information and techniques for improving interactions with Micronesian patients. This training will be pilot-tested with University of Hawaii Cancer Center faculty and staff. Five local health clinics and practices will be offered this training through a web-based training format. The training also provides healthcare professionals with three continuing medical education credits. Initial delivery of the training was intended for in-person format; however, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing regulations, a virtual format had to be adopted. Healthcare providers will be provided pre-training resources, a pre and posttest, as well as a six-month follow-up survey to assess attainment of the training objectives. Objectives for the trainings include: to understand medical professionals’ cultures and values, to promote understanding of other communities’ cultures and values, to understand how cultural values and beliefs impact treatment and interaction among healthcare professionals, to identify challenges and learn culturally appropriate strategies to address them and, to bridge the gap between Micronesian and Western understandings of healthcare and healing.

Citation Format: Mark L. Willingham, Jr., Kevin Cassel. Working with Micronesian communities: A cultural competency training for healthcare professionals [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-030.
Abstract PO-031: Fostering a multisectoral and multidisciplinary approach in the fight against cancer: The Blueprint for Success program in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Munene Denis , Asirwa Chite , Ali Zipporah , Okumu Beatrice , Korir Ann , Musibi Alice , Musau Helena , Odoyo Edwin
Published: December 2020

Introduction Blueprint for Success initiative utilizes a multi-institutional and multidisciplinary approach that brings together team of Kenyan oncologists, researchers, palliative care experts, community health facilitators to holistically address the burden of cancer as well as address barriers across the entire cancer continuum of care, including awareness, advocacy, screening, diagnostics, treatment, and optimum aftercare to improve care outcomes. Methods Blueprint for Success initiative brings together multidisciplinary industries, governments, Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs), healthcare professionals and communities to collaboratively identify and develop roadmaps to bridge access gaps for patients living with cancer in Meru County. Primary Health Care (PHC) approach is used and programmes are designed focusing on screening, training of community health workers (CHWs), creating awareness in the community, education of primary care physicians, establishing palliative care services and strengthening the cancer registries. Results The strategic partnerships formed through the Blueprint for Success initiative has enabled us to not only implement global best practice but also ensure that our initiatives are providing high-quality, culturally competent patient support for the longer term. We have established an oncology Centre, trained 100 Health Care Workers and 500 Community Health Volunteers (CHV’s), established community health reporting tool – Mobile Jamii Afya Link (M-Jali), established a Cancer Registry, strengthened palliative care services as well as improve access to cancer screening and promote public awareness of cancer with an emphasis on breast, cervical and prostate cancers. Conclusion The program continues to work closely with local communities, governments and healthcare workers and if successful will be replicated in other parts of the country and is expected to dramatically reduce the burden of cancer in Kenya and Sub-Saharan region.

Citation Format: Denis Munene, Chite Asirwa, Zipporah Ali, Beatrice Okumu, Ann Korir, Alice Musibi, Helena Musau, Edwin Odoyo. Fostering a multisectoral and multidisciplinary approach in the fight against cancer: The Blueprint for Success program in Meru County, Kenya [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-031.
Abstract PO-033: 'Pull Up A Seat': A program shining a light on the experiences of Black women with breast cancer for healthcare providers and the scientific community
Authors: Maues Julia , Karmo Maimah , Cooper Shanda , McGlown Sheila , Rivers Jamil , Randall Chawnte , Koulakian Tania , Hodgdon Christine , Chan Isaac
Published: December 2020

Breast cancer incidence rates for Black women are lower than that of their white counterparts, yet the mortality of Black women is 40 percent higher. Among women under 50, the mortality disparity is even greater: double that of white women. The gap between breast cancer incidence and mortality among Black women is complex and multifactorial. Social, economic, behavioral factors may partially account for the disparity, along with historical and systemic racism causing trauma and mistrust within this community. Black women are also more likely than white women to have inadequate health insurance or access to health care facilities, which may affect access to screening, follow-up care, and completion of treatment. This study measures social, economic and behavioral factors that affect access to adequate healthcare through listening sessions entitled 'Pull Up A Seat: Shining a Light on the Experiences of Black Women with Breast Cancer’. 'Pull Ups' are events in partnership with The Tigerlily Foundation and GRASP, bringing together health equity experts, healthcare providers, scientists, researchers, clinicians and Black women with a history of breast cancer. Each meeting consists of a lecture on broad topics such as racism in medical research, clinical trial exclusion/inclusion criteria and history of mistrust from Black community. After the lecture, breakout rooms led by Black patient advocates are held for healthcare providers with the concept that patients are experts in living with the disease and have much to share – and teach – healthcare providers and researchers. Our methodology will be based on surveys post-event to attendants and an impact report with metrics and teachings to health providers and researchers to determine learning and changes to be made in practices. We believe this program created for and by black patients affected by breast cancer from across diverse and underserved populations will help increase the participation of black women with breast cancer in clinical trials through patient empowerment and health provider awareness of unconscious biases. In addition, we believe this program will result in co-creating solutions to limit barriers for Black women.

Citation Format: Julia Maues, Maimah Karmo, Shanda Cooper, Sheila McGlown, Jamil Rivers, Chawnte Randall, Tania Koulakian, Christine Hodgdon, Isaac Chan. 'Pull Up A Seat': A program shining a light on the experiences of Black women with breast cancer for healthcare providers and the scientific community [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-033.
Abstract PO-057: Éxito! The Latino cancer research leadership training program: Motivating Latinx students toward the doctorate
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Hughes Daniel C. , Perez Arely , Cantu-Pawlik Stacy L. , Pasick Rena J.
Published: December 2020

Introduction: The Latino cancer burden is expected to rise 142% by 2030. Cancer is the leading cause of death among Latinos who represent 18% of the population and are the majority minority population in the US. Yet, they represent the most underrepresented among those with a doctoral degree. This under-representation and the increasing Latino health disparities is a multifaceted issue. There is thus a clear need for a robust pipeline of Latino health professionals trained across the many disciplines needed to truly address health disparities. Methodology: Éxito! annually selects 25 master’s-level participants to an intense five-day Summer Institute (SI). The interactive sessions promote collaboration between trainees, presenters, and mentors. Sessions are led by successful Latino health professionals in a culturally congruent atmosphere that enhances academic self-efficacy to overcome barriers, provide social support, networking and mentoring. To enhance research skills, competitive internships are awarded to 10 of the alumni of the SI working with a mentor focused on researching Latino health disparities. Program success is measured by changes in academic self-efficacy, e.g. “accepted into program of choice”; confidence to overcome academic barriers, e.g. “applying to a program”; improvement in research skills (internships); and, successful acceptance into a doctoral degree program. Results: Since 2010, 200 individuals have completed SI training and 49 internships have been awarded. Éxito! has improved academic self- efficacy (p < .001), improved confidence toward obtaining a doctoral degree (p < .001) and improved research skills (p < .001). Of the 200 Éxito! alumni, 26% (n=53) have successfully enrolled in doctoral programs. Thus far 12 have received their doctoral degrees. Conclusions: Health disparities are largely determined by many interactive social factors including cultural incongruence between affected populations and those conducting the research. Éxito! is a successful model for increasing the pipeline of Latino health disparities researchers.

Citation Format: Amelie G. Ramirez, Daniel C. Hughes, Arely Perez, Stacy L. Cantu-Pawlik, Rena J. Pasick. Éxito! The Latino cancer research leadership training program: Motivating Latinx students toward the doctorate [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-057.
Abstract PO-060: Promoting colorectal cancer screening: A training for healthcare professionals
Authors: Willingham Mark L. , Cassel Kevin
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the creation of a colorectal cancer screening training intended for healthcare professionals. Cancers of the colon and rectum remain the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in Hawai’i, and simple changes to healthcare practices can increase colorectal cancer screening by engaging and motivating patients to be screened. To improve colorectal cancer screening rates in Hawai’i, healthcare professionals need the tools to better interact with patients from different cultures such as Pacific Islanders. A promoting colorectal cancer screening training was created through different resources for the purpose of improving patient and healthcare professionals’ interactions. This training will provide healthcare professionals culturally based content for improving colorectal cancer screening and techniques for interacting with Pacific Island patients. This training will be pilot- tested with University of Hawaii Cancer Center faculty and staff; five local health clinics and practices will be offered this training through a web-based training format. The training also provides healthcare professionals with three continuing medical education credits. Initial delivery of the training was intended for in-person format; however, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing regulations, a virtual format had to be adopted. Healthcare providers will be provided pre-training resources, a pre and posttest, as well as a six-month follow-up survey to assess attainment of the training objectives. Objectives for the trainings include: four essential strategies to improve colorectal cancer screening (make a recommendation, develop a screening policy, measure practice progress, and be persistent with reminders), to promote understanding of other communities’ reluctance of cancer screening, and to bridge the gap between Pacific Islander and Western understanding of traditional and Western healing.

Citation Format: Mark L. Willingham, Jr., Kevin Cassel. Promoting colorectal cancer screening: A training for healthcare professionals [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-060.
Abstract PO-067: LGBTQ patients and cancer care: A scoping review of U.S. physician attitudes, biases, and interactions
Authors: Tredway Kristi , Cork Stephanie J. , Camp Melissa S. , Poteat Tonia , Dean Lorraine T.
Published: December 2020

As lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people gain increasing acceptance in U.S. society, physicians are at an important turning point. Older physicians who entered medicine when homophobia was still the norm are interacting with new generations of physicians who have emerged through the cultural debates, and increased acceptance, of LGBTQ people in our society. This dichotomous acceptance of LGBTQ people by physicians makes it unclear the extent and types of biases that remain in medical settings that negatively impact both LGBTQ patients and physicians. In cancer care, data indicate that LGBTQ patients have less timely screenings as compared with the general population, as well as negative beliefs about care and perceptions of heterosexism and homophobia among providers, among other factors. Thus, the effects of perceived homophobia by physicians can cause health disparities and inequity for LGBTQ populations.

Identifying and understanding the scope of LGBTQ biases within medicine, especially in cancer care, will allow us to work at dismantling these biases. This scoping review explores existing literature outlining the types and extent of biased attitudes of physicians within the U.S. towards LGBTQ patients seeking cancer care.

Citation Format: Kristi Tredway, Stephanie J. Cork, Melissa S. Camp, Tonia Poteat, Lorraine T. Dean. LGBTQ patients and cancer care: A scoping review of U.S. physician attitudes, biases, and interactions [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-067.
Abstract PO-072: Exploring Pacific Islander participation in clinical cancer trials in Guam
Authors: Diaz Tressa P. , Aguon Corinth , Mendez Ana Joy
Published: December 2020

Background. In January 2019, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) approved the addition of FHP Health Center in Guam to its NCI Community Oncology Research Program, making it possible for residents in Guam to participate in NCI-sponsored cancer clinical trials for the first time in Guam's history. Pacific Islanders have historically been significantly underrepresented in NCI-sponsored cancer clinical trials in the nation (Chen et al., 2014). In anticipation of trial recruitment, this pre- pilot study sought to inductively explore community knowledge, beliefs, concerns, and facilitating factors regarding participation in cancer clinical trials in Guam.

Methods: Key informants (N=6) were recruited via purposive sampling to represent clerical, government, cultural, and private healthcare sectors. Semi-structured interviews 60 to 90 minutes in length were conducted and transcribed. Qualitative data analysis involved comparisons across the six cases for themes on knowledge, beliefs, concerns, and facilitating factors. Three phases of coding were utilized: initial line-by-line coding per case, general thematic comparisons across cases, and focused analysis on final themes and sub-themes. Results: All participants agreed that advancing cancer research and developing protocols is vital. Cultural and personal beliefs centered on an intergenerational consciousness of cancer and survivability.

Dominant concerns were related to distrust and being taken advantage of, as well as fears about harms, risk, and pain. Facilitating factors included the importance of giving hope and that “every option is better than no option.” Participants also expressed that trials would help address the needs of the community given the prevalence of cancer across family generations. Primary recommendations to clinicians and administrators included attention to the safety and “utmost care” of subjects, and transparency regarding risks and benefits of each trial. Conclusions: These initial research findings provide insight into contextual factors that influence Pacific Islander participation, and will be utilized to help develop a larger, population- based pilot study to further explore community concerns, readiness, and recruitment in clinical cancer trials in Guam.

Citation Format: Tressa P. Diaz, Corinth Aguon, Ana Joy Mendez. Exploring Pacific Islander participation in clinical cancer trials in Guam [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-072.
Abstract PO-074: Understanding men’s concerns about linking health data in the context of precision medicine
Authors: Jefferson Melanie , Magwood Gayenell , Melvin Cathy , Babatunde Oluwole , Halbert Chanita Hughes , Allen Caitlin G.
Published: December 2020

Background and Importance: Linking data is a critical feature of precision medicine initiatives that involves integrating information from multiple sources to improve researchers’ and clinicians’ ability to deliver care. To date, we have limited understanding of how racial and ethnic minorities perceive linking data as it relates to precision medicine. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify how demographics, co-morbidities, and beliefs about precision medicine influence two outcomes related to linking data: beliefs about linking data and concerns about linking data among minority men. Methods: Adult individuals were recruited from primary care practices at a large clinical research university. 375 individuals were invited to participate and 124 completed a cross-sectional survey that included questions about demographic characteristics, comorbidities, beliefs, benefits, and limitations of precision medicine, and two outcomes of interest: beliefs about the value of linking data and concerns about linking data. Descriptives, bivariate, and multivariable regression were conducted in SAS version 9.4. Results: Participants had positive perceptions about beliefs about linking data for precision medicine (M=4.05/5) and average concern about linking data (M=2.1/5). Final multivariable models revealed that higher levels of loneliness are associated with more positive beliefs about linking data (B=0.41, p=0.027). Races other than Black or African American (B=-0.64, p=0.009) and those with lower perceived limitations of precision medicine were less likely to be concerned about linking data (B=-0.75, p=-.0006).

Conclusion and Relevance: Our results contribute to the lack of literature about perceptions of linking data for use in clinical and research studies among men. Better understanding of factors associated with more positive perceptions of data linkages could help improve how researchers recruit and engage participants.

Citation Format: Melanie Jefferson, Gayenell Magwood, Cathy Melvin, Oluwole Babatunde, Chanita Hughes Halbert, Caitlin G. Allen. Understanding men’s concerns about linking health data in the context of precision medicine [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-074.