bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract A40: Capital Breast Care Center: A Patient Navigation Exemplar
Authors: Wallington Sherrie Flynt , Oppong Bridget , Dash Chiranjeev , Coleman Tesha , Greenwald Holly , Torres Tanya , Iddirisu Marquita , Adams-Campbell Lucile
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for American women. Washington, DC, has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates for breast cancer in the U.S. Patient navigation coupled with informational and community resources are important strategies that assist patients' access and help them understand the complex world of cancer care.

Aims.The Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center's Capital Breast Care Center (CBCC) serves as an exemplary community-embedded facility that develops multiple intra community partnerships to improve patient access to health care. The aim of this study is to detail the role of patient navigation at the Capital Breast Care Center, with an emphasis on community engagement and community-based partnerships.

Program process description. We describe the development and application of the CBCC patient navigation process and navigation components: (a) creating partnerships; (b) educating members of the community about mammograms; (c) providing patient navigation into screening assistance; and (d) helping women with coordination of diagnostic follow-up. Data were collected from 2004-2015 and analyzed in 2015.

Program process evaluation results. CBCC established 41 community partnerships categorized by different organizational types that include transitional housing facilities, health service providers, neighborhood associations, churches, senior centers, and local neighborhood recreation centers. Application of the CBCC navigation model yielded important lessons; in general, partnerships and patient navigation.

Discussion. Partnerships, community engagement, and informational resources are all crucial to the patient navigation process in providing access to quality care for all patients.

Citation Format: Sherrie Flynt Wallington, Bridget Oppong, Chiranjeev Dash, Tesha Coleman, Holly Greenwald, Tanya Torres, Marquita Iddirisu, Lucile Adams-Campbell. Capital Breast Care Center: A Patient Navigation Exemplar. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A40.
Abstract A44: Tobacco education sessions as a recruitment tool for a culturally tailored smoking cessation program for American Indians: All Nations Breath of Life
Authors: Goeckner Ryan , Gunville Jordyn , Smith T Edward , Nazir Niaman , Daley Sean M. , Choi Won , Daley Christine
Published: March 2017

American Indians have the highest smoking rates and lowest quit rates of any racial/ethnic group in the US. Researchers and community members from the American Indian Health Research and Education Alliance (AIHREA) created and tested a culturally-tailored smoking cessation program, All Nations Breath of Life (ANBL). ANBL is designed to help American Indians quit smoking while respecting the sacred nature of tobacco. To increase enrollment in ANBL, American Indian smokers were approached at cultural events and asked to attend a 30-minute educational session (in-person, n = 179; televideo, n = 97). The educational sessions were developed using the Health Belief Model as a framework and focused on smoking facts and American Indian health. In pre- and post-tests, participants in both sessions demonstrated increased motivation and confidence to quit smoking. Approximately 9% of in-person session participants and 30% of televideo participants were recruited into ANBL. The results indicate that education sessions are an excellent way to educate American Indians about smoking, its related outcomes, and American Indian health. More importantly, these sessions were a successful recruitment tool for ANBL. In conclusion, hosting informational sessions at cultural events about smoking are an effective way to recruit people into a smoking cessation program.

Citation Format: Ryan Goeckner, Jordyn Gunville, T Edward Smith, Niaman Nazir, Sean M. Daley, Won Choi, Christine Daley. Tobacco education sessions as a recruitment tool for a culturally tailored smoking cessation program for American Indians: All Nations Breath of Life. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A44.
Abstract A59: Influence of Spirituality on Cancer Risk Assessment Decisions: Perspectives of Hispanic & non-Hispanic Women
Authors: Vicuna Belinda
Published: March 2017

Spirituality has been a prominent coping resource among those facing cancer and can be especially relevant in dealing with the uncertainty of cancer risk. As part of a larger study, the aim of this study was to explore how spirituality influences decisions to get cancer risk assessment among Hispanic and non-Hispanic women in New Mexico. A total of 16 women with a personal history of breast and ovarian cancer participated in focus group or an interview. Ethnically, 50% of participants identified as Hispanic and racially, 69% identified as White. The mean age was 56 years old, 63% had a college degree, and 69% had a yearly household income of < $50,000. A majority (81%) of women stated that their spirituality was important or highly important in their lives. Although 94% replied that their spirituality does not influence their decisions to get genetic testing, discussion of spirituality within the context of getting cancer risk assessment was especially relevant among Hispanic participants. Qualitative analyses were done to extract themes on how spirituality might act as a facilitator or barrier to engaging in cancer risk assessment. Among non-Hispanic participants, there was acknowledgement of how spirituality may impact others' decision and a strong sentiment that spirituality not was relevant in their personal decisions for genetic testing. Among English-speaking Hispanic participants, there was a strong emphasis on the role that spirituality plays in well-being and as a central role in New Mexican Hispanic culture. Among Spanish-Speaking Hispanic participants, spirituality was paramount in coping with the experience of breast cancer and in encouraging genetic testing and screening as an avenue to protect health for individual and the family. In conclusion, spirituality may not have a direct influence on decisions to seek genetic testing for cancer risk, but the indirect influence of spirituality through culture and as a coping resource does vary by ethnicity.

Citation Format: Belinda Vicuna. Influence of Spirituality on Cancer Risk Assessment Decisions: Perspectives of Hispanic & non-Hispanic Women. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A59.
Abstract B01: Designing a feasible breast cancer genetics research study: Lessons learned
Authors: Bauza Colleen , Fordxs Marvella E.
Published: March 2017

Background: The current trend toward personalized medicine in cancer care relies heavily on cancer genetics research (CGR). However, members of diverse populations are significantly less likely than others to participate in CGR. Therefore, CGR results lack generalizability to these groups. This study tests strategies to recruit European American (EA) and African American (AA) women of varied income levels who are at risk of developing breast cancer (BC) to CGR.

Design: Recruitment began in January 2015 and ended in May 2015. Study flyers are strategically placed in the BC screening clinics at a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center. Interested patients call the study coordinator for eligibility screening. To supplement low accrual rates using this method, in June 2015, the investigators began using the EPIC electronic health record to identify BC-screened patients who potentially met study eligibility criteria. EPIC-identified patients are randomly selected in groups of 50 and are sent a letter describing the study; if interested, they then call the study coordinator for eligibility screening.

Results: The original recruitment strategy resulted in 11 participants (7 AA, 4 EA) while 21 participants (10 AA, 11 EA) were recruited using the EPIC approach.

Discussion: The EPIC recruitment strategy resulted in a higher number of recruited participants than the study flyer strategy. Identifying effective approaches to recruit diverse populations to CGR is critically important. Study results show that using a targeted recruitment approach such as the pre-screening approach in the EPIC strategy can bolster participation of diverse populations in CGR.

Citation Format: Colleen Bauza, Marvella E. Fordxs. Designing a feasible breast cancer genetics research study: Lessons learned. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B01.
Abstract B21: Functional Role of ETS/ETV1-Fusion Proteins in Prostate Cancer and Other Cancers
Authors: Morsalin Sharif , Yang Chunshu , Fang Jinbo , Fujimura Yasuo , Kayarthodi Shubhalaxmi , Xu Huali , Gunnal Ujwala , Clark Clarence , Menter Julian , Rao Veena , Reddy Shyam
Published: March 2017

After lung cancer prostate cancer is the most common age related cancer among men in the United State. African American men have the highest incidence of, and mortality rate from, this disease in the United States (American Cancer Society). According to the American Cancer Society, 29% of all cancer cases and 9% of all cancer deaths are a result of prostate cancer. By the age of 75, one out of nine men will develop prostate cancer. Individuals who are at higher risk include African-American men, men over 60 years of age and those with a family history of the disease. African-Americans also have twice the risk of developing prostate cancer as Caucasians. E26 transforming sequence (ETS) factors play an important role in cancers. ETV1, an ETS factor, is notable for its association in prostate cancers, where truncated ETV1 (dETV1) or its full length counterpart is overexpressed in approximately 10% of the patients. Formation of cancers may be brought on by deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Mutations that stabilize β-catenin may contribute to loss of cell growth control in tumorigenesis. ETV1's interaction with components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway may alter β-catenin interaction with downstream tumor suppressor genes, which are critical in regulating apoptosis and cell growth properties. Our results show that ETV1 regulates Wnt/β-catenin activity. We provide evidence that ETV1 activates kinases that regulate Wnt/β-catenin activity by post translational modification. Also, we demonstrate that therapeutic agents that reverse ETV1-regulated Wnt/β-catenin activity can be used to target ETV1-positive prostate cancer cells. These therapeutic agents will have a profound impact on prevention and treatment of prostate cancer and this may help to reduce health disparity seen in the minority patients.

Citation Format: Sharif Morsalin, Chunshu Yang, Jinbo Fang, Yasuo Fujimura, Shubhalaxmi Kayarthodi, Huali Xu, Ujwala Gunnal, Clarence Clark, Julian Menter, Veena Rao, Shyam Reddy. Functional Role of ETS/ETV1-Fusion Proteins in Prostate Cancer and Other Cancers. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B21.
Abstract B34: The Role of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Prostate Cancer in African American Men
Authors: Bollig-Fischer Aliccia B. , Bao Bin , Legendre Christophe , Dyson Greg , Sakr Wael , Carpten John , Powell Isaac
Published: March 2017

Background: African American men (AAM) have a 60% higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer and a 2 to 3 times greater risk of dying from the disease compared to European American men (EAM). We previously reported evidence that there may be a molecular basis for these disparities from high-throughput gene expression analysis of PCa specimens, the data showed that pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling factors, including IL6 and TGFB1, are significantly upregulated and over-represented in PCa from AAM.

Objective/Methods: the objective of our more recent research was to gain understanding of the role for IL6 in promoting aggressive prostate cancer in AAM. We used established cell lines derived from PCa from AAM and EAM to study if cancer cells produce IL6 and how IL6 impacts cancer cell phenotypes in vitro. We also conducted a pilot RNA-sequencing study to analyze aggressive PCa specimens and matched non-cancer adjacent prostate tissue for insights as to the role of the microenvironment and potential PCa-stroma crosstalk.

Results: Results of our PCa cell line work indicate that a subpopulation of stem-cell like cancer cells produce IL6 and that IL6 acts in autocrine fashion to maintain that subpopulation. For the African American MDA-PCa2b cell line, IL6 expression was not detected. However, treatment of these cells with IL6 induced cancer stem cell-like prostasphere formation and growth. Results of our high-throughput gene expression analysis suggest that specifically for AAM, cancer cells are the source of pro-inflammatory cytokines in less aggressive cancer, but for aggressive prostate cancer pro-inflammatory cytokines originate from the non-cancer, prostate microenvironment.

Conclusion: our mechanism studies in PCa-derived cell lines and high-throughput functional genomic analyses of human specimens converge to improve understanding of the molecular biology unique to aggressive PCa in AAM. Continued research and development is warranted to show how this knowledge could be used to improve clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

Citation Format: Aliccia B. Bollig-Fischer, Bin Bao, Christophe Legendre, Greg Dyson, Wael Sakr, John Carpten, Isaac Powell. The Role of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Prostate Cancer in African American Men. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B34.
Abstract B52: Describing Adherence to Dietary Guidelines in Overweight African American Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Springfield Sparkle , Odoms-Young Angela , Tussing-Humphreys Lisa , Freels Sally , Fantuzzi Giamila , Stolley Melinda
Published: March 2017

Background

African American women have the greatest breast cancer mortality and shortest survival rates of any racial or ethnic group. Increased adherence to general population dietary guidelines has been linked to improved breast cancer outcomes. Limited information exists on the dietary habits and level of adherence to general population dietary recommendations in African American breast cancer survivors (AABCS).

Objective

We explored differences in diet quality assessed via HEI and AHEI by demographic and anthropometric characteristics.

Design

A cross-sectional analysis of the baseline interview including a food frequency questionnaire.

Participants/setting

Study participants were recruited and enrolled in the Moving Forward intervention study. Moving Forward was a randomized, community-based, 6-month weight management intervention for AABCS.

Main outcome measures

Adherence to population-based dietary recommendations was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index-2010 (HEI) and the Alternate Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI).

Statistical analyses performed

We calculated standard descriptive statistics for nutrient intakes, including total and components scores from HEI and AHEI. Linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between socio-demographic factors and dietary adherence.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 57 and were approximately seven years post-initial breast cancer diagnosis. The mean HEI total score was 65.1 (range: 38.9-93.9; max score 100) and mean AHEI total score was 56.8 (range: 25.00 - 85.8; max score 110) indicating sub-optimal diet quality. In the adjusted analysis, HEI and AHEI total scores were positively associated with education, income, moderate physical activity (HEI only) and negatively associated with waist-hip ratio, and smoking status.

Conclusion

Generally, non-smokers, who reported more moderate physical activity, more years of education, and smaller waist circumferences had better quality diets compared to other participants. Understanding deficiencies in the diet of AABCS will help to inform the development of effective lifestyle interventions for this at-risk group.

Citation Format: Sparkle Springfield, Angela Odoms-Young, Lisa Tussing-Humphreys, Sally Freels, Giamila Fantuzzi, Melinda Stolley. Describing Adherence to Dietary Guidelines in Overweight African American Breast Cancer Survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B52.
Abstract B55: Gastric Cancer Epidemiological Trends among Hispanics: A 10-year Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Cruz-Correa Marcia , Cora-Morges Adrian , Gonzalez-Cordero Ariel , Serrano-Rosario Jennifer , Diaz-Algori Yaritza , Soto-Salgado Marievelisse , Torres-Cintron Carlos , Morgan Douglas , Tortolero-Luna Guillermo
Published: March 2017

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is among the top five diagnosed cancers in US Hispanics, while it's not a common cancer in Non-Hispanic Whites (NHW). In Puerto Rico (PR), GC is the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death in men and the eighth most common in women. Although the incidence of GC has decreased during the last two decades in all US racial/ethnic groups, the mortality associated to GC continues to be high and disproportionately affects Hispanics. We aimed to determine and compare the overall five-year relative survival of PR Hispanics with GC during two study periods (1998-2002 and 2003-2007) and examine the geographical distribution to establish priorities for screening and health policy. Methods: Data was obtained from the PR Central Cancer Registry (PRCCR). All occurring cases with a diagnosis of primary GC, those arising primarily from the gastroesophageal junction to the pylorus, ICD-O-3 codes C16.0 to C16.9, with histological confirmation (using ICD-O-3 codes) from January 1, 1998 to December 31, 2007 were included. Five-year overall survival rates were calculated using the incidence case file database of the PRCCR and estimated using the Kaplan Meier method. Results: For the period 1998-2002 the age-adjusted incidence rate for GC was 10.0 per 100,000 (n = 1,696), while for 2003-2007 was 8.4 per 100,000 (n = 1,595). The overall five-year relative survival for GC was 22.1% and 28.2% for the periods of 1998-2002 and 2003-2007, respectively. Age-adjusted incidence rates of GC were lower in the Metropolitan (costal) Area and its surrounding municipalities while higher in the municipalities of the mountainous regions. Conclusion: GC continues to be a common cancer among Hispanics despite decrease burden among other US racial groups. Moreover, the survival rate of GC continues to be abysmal with less than 30% 5-year survival rate. There is a geographical distribution with higher GC incidence rates in the mountainous regions. Studies evaluating biologic and environmental risk factors for GC are of utmost importance to understand this cancer disparity and establish GC screening algorithms among US Hispanics.

Citation Format: Marcia Cruz-Correa, Adrian Cora-Morges, Ariel Gonzalez-Cordero, Jennifer Serrano-Rosario, Yaritza Diaz-Algori, Marievelisse Soto-Salgado, Carlos Torres-Cintron, Douglas Morgan, Guillermo Tortolero-Luna. Gastric Cancer Epidemiological Trends among Hispanics: A 10-year Population-Based Analysis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B55.
Abstract B66: Novel adjuvant therapy for obesity-related cancers
Authors: Candelaria Pierre , Harmon Tia , Harbuzariu Adriana , Rampoldi Antonio , Lipsey Crystal , Mullen Mckay , Kurian Ann , Dill Courtney , Tchio Cynthia , Daley-Brown Danielle , Nunez Shakeyla , Lanier Viola , Gonzalez-Perez Ruben Rene
Published: March 2017

Obesity incidence has reached alarming levels, particularly in minority populations: African American (AA) and Latinos. The risk of develop several cancers (i.e., breast, pancreatic and endometrial cancers) is strongly correlated to obesity. One of the essential factors involved in this relationship is leptin, the major adipokine secreted by adipose and tumor cells. Leptin is a mitogenic, proangiogenic, antiapoptotic and inflammatory factor that induces tumor growth and metastasis. Leptin has also been shown to increase cancer stem cell population and drug resistance in tumors. We have produced a potent and specific antagonist (LPrA2) that blocks leptin signaling and impairs its effects on cancer cells. LPrA2 conjugated to iron-oxide nanoparticles (IONP-LPrA2) shows enhanced bioavailability (half-life 8x higher) and inhibition effectiveness on leptin signaling in cancer cells. It is hypothesized that IONP-LPrA2 could serve as an adjuvant that increases effectiveness and allows the reduction of dosage of chemotherapeutic drugs, particularly in obesity contexts. Breast (E0771-TAM tamoxifen resistant, Py-8119, MDA-MB231, HCC1806 and MCF-7) and pancreatic cancer cells (Panc-1, BxPC-3, MiaPaca2), and their derived tumorspheres were treated with leptin, chemotherapeutics (Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Paclitaxel and Gemcitabine) and IONP-LPrA2. Additionally, E0771-TAM and Py-8119 cells, and MDA-MB231 and Panc-1 tumorspheres were inoculated in C57BL/6J female mice (obese and lean) and female and male CD1 nu/nu mice. The mice were treated with IONP-LPrA2 during 4 weeks. Leptin induced proliferation and cell cycle progression in all cancer cells tested. Leptin also increased the number and size of breast and pancreatic cancer tumorspheres, and the levels of cancer stem cell (ALDH1, CD44, CD24, ESA), and chemoresistant (ABCB1) and pluripotent (NANOG) markers. IONP-LPrA2 treatment increased the effects of chemotherapeutics on cancer cells, and delayed tumor onset and growth. These data suggest that leptin is a mitogenic factor that increases cancer aggressiveness and survival. IONP-LPrA2 is a promising chemotherapeutic adjuvant, especially for patients suffering from obesity-related cancers.

Citation Format: Pierre Candelaria, Tia Harmon, Adriana Harbuzariu, Antonio Rampoldi, Crystal Lipsey, Mckay Mullen, Ann Kurian, Courtney Dill, Cynthia Tchio, Danielle Daley-Brown, Shakeyla Nunez, Viola Lanier, Ruben Rene Gonzalez-Perez. Novel adjuvant therapy for obesity-related cancers. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B66.
Abstract B72: Does prostate cancer risk vary by race after accounting for lifestyle factors in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study
Authors: Hamieh Nadine M. , Markt Sarah , Peisch Sam , Giovannucci Edward , Wilson Kathryn , Mucci Lorelei
Published: March 2017

Introduction: There are considerable differences in prostate cancer rates among white, black and Asian men, yet the underlying reasons for these differences are unknown. Our objectives were to study the association between race/ethnicity and prostate cancer risk, including aggressive cancer, accounting for differences in lifestyle factors and screening in a socioeconomically homogeneous population of US men.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective analysis using the Health Professionals Follow-up study (HPFS), a prospective cohort of 46,108 men that began in 1986 with follow-up through 2012. These men were followed-up through biennial questionnaires that collected lifestyle, medical history and demographic data. After 26 years of follow up, 6,072 new cases of prostate cancer were identified. We used Cox proportional hazards models to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between race/ethnicity and prostate cancer risk adjusting for potential confounders and PSA screening history.

Results: At baseline in 1986, there were 44,795 Caucasian men, 470 black men and 834 Asian men. Black men had a significantly higher risk of overall prostate cancer (HR=1.38, 95% CI= 1.10 to 1.72) while Asian men had a lower risk (HR=0.73, 95% CI=0.58 to 0.92) compared to white men. These associations were independent of PSA testing history and family history. There was a suggestion of an increased risk of lethal and high-Gleason grade disease for both black (Lethal: HR=1.24, 95% CI= 0.68 to 2.28; High-grade: HR=1.12, 95% CI=0.58 to 2.18) and Asian men (Lethal: HR=1.29, 95% CI=0.75 to 2.23; High-grade: HR=1.43, 95% CI=0.86 to 2.37), compared to Caucasian men, despite the lower risk for overall prostate cancer among Asians. The positive associations with lethal cancer were even more striking in the era before PSA screening was common (before 1994).

Conclusion: The increased incidence of prostate cancer overall among black men and reduced incidence in Asian men cannot be explained by differences in PSA testing, family history or other lifestyle factors.

Citation Format: Nadine M. Hamieh, Sarah Markt, Sam Peisch, Edward Giovannucci, Kathryn Wilson, Lorelei Mucci. Does prostate cancer risk vary by race after accounting for lifestyle factors in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr B72.
Abstract C08: Importance, preference and satisfaction of menatal health services among a sample of Puerto Rican cancer patients
Authors: Castro Eida M. , Torres Normarie , Castro Wallesca P. , Jimenez Julio C.
Published: March 2017

Considering the high prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms experiences by cancer patients, it is crucial to integrate the psychosocial care into clinical oncology services. However, little is known about how Puerto Rican cancer patients, a Hispanic sub-ethnicity, prefer such care. Thus, the purpose of this study was to observe, the use, satisfaction and preferences of mental health services (MHS) among a sample of Puerto Rican cancer patients under oncology treatment (n=70). The study follows a a cross-sectional descriptive research design. Participants were recruited in community oncology clinics, cancer fund raising events and community-based organization providing support to cancer patients. After signing informed consent, participants were given a self report survey that took approximately 15 minutes to complete. Descriptive and chi-square analyses were performed using SPSS statistical package version 20. Preliminary data analysis shows a significant relationship between age and mental health service utilization at present X2(12, N=70) =68.05, p<.001; and age and mental health service utilization in the past X2(18, N=70) =46.23, p<.001. As such, 87.5% of those utilizing MHS at present were 45 Y/O and younger and 75% of those who utilized MHS in the past were between ages 21-60. Also, data shows that the study participants prefer receiving mental health services at the oncology clinic (48%), with appointments that coincide with their oncology-medical appointments (58%) and during the morning (49%). Detailed description about mental health care preference and utilizations will be further discussed. Findings suggest potential gaps in the utilization of mental health services among Puerto Rican cancer patients over 60 years of age. Future studies should consider identifying potential utilization and access barriers among this population. Also, the preliminary findings supports the integration of mental health services within the clinical community oncology practice.

Citation Format: Eida M. Castro, Normarie Torres, Wallesca P. Castro, Julio C. Jimenez. Importance, preference and satisfaction of menatal health services among a sample of Puerto Rican cancer patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C08.
Abstract C16: Disparities in survival outcomes based on insurance status in CML: A national cancer database analysis
Authors: Master Samip R. , Koshy Nebu , Mills Glenn , Shi Runhua R.
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

The treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has made major progress in the last decade. The survival of CML patients has improved with advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The cost of medication, compliance of patients and access to care are important issues that can also affect outcome. The purpose of the present study is to investigate effects of insurance status on outcomes of CML by analyzing data from National cancer database.

Methods:

Data was analyzed from 18, 415 men and women (≥ 18 years of age) registered in the NCDB who were diagnosed with CML between 2004 and 2012 and had follow-ups to end of 2013. The primary predictor variable was insurance status and the outcome variable was overall survival. Additional variables addressed and adjusted for included sex, age, race, Charleston Co morbidity index, level of education, income, and distance traveled, facility type, diagnosing/treating facility and treatment delay.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 59 years with standard deviation of 18. In multivariate analysis, after adjusting for secondary predictor variables, insurance status was a statistically significant predictor of overall survival from CML. Relative to privately insured patients, patients with Medicaid had a 62.7% increased risk, Medicare had a 44.3% and no insurance had a 34.7% increased risk of mortality from CML. Among the factors analyzed, age, gender, race, and comorbidity index, were all found to be significant predictors of survival in CML patients, respectively.

Conclusion:

We observed that insurance status has a statistically significant relationship with overall survival from CML. This remained true after adjusting for other predictive factors. Further research is necessary how the disparities associated with different types of insurance result in inferior treatment outcomes and how they can be addressed.

Citation Format: Samip R. Master, Nebu Koshy, Glenn Mills, Runhua R. Shi. Disparities in survival outcomes based on insurance status in CML: A national cancer database analysis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C16.
Abstract C24: Interplay between ECM stiffness, miR-203 and mammographic density
Authors: Dean Ivory , Acerbi Irene , Mouw Janna , Shi Quanming , Chen Yunn-Yi , Liphardt Jan , Hwang Shelley , Weaver Valerie
Published: March 2017

High mammographic density (MD) is associated with a greater risk of breast cancer and is characterized by high extracellular matrix (ECM) collagen. Elevated collagen increases ECM stiffness and can promote the malignant transformation of oncogenically-primed mammary epithelial cells in culture and in vivo. Whether or not high MD reflects a breast stroma that is stiff and if ECM stiffness accounts for the elevated breast cancer risk in high MD tissue and how has yet to be resolved. To address this question we are conducting a comprehensive biophysical and molecular analysis of BIRADS status in prophylactic mastectomies in women with low (BIRADS 1) versus high MD (BIRADS 4). Data revealed that the intra-lobular ECM associated with the terminal end-buds contains anisotropic compliant and relaxed collagen fibrils. By contrast, the inter-lobular ECM contains stiff, oriented collagen fibrils. Preliminary data suggest that the ECM associated with the terminal end-buds in the upper outer quadrant may be stiffer in women with high MD as compared to low MD. These same tissues also expressed lower levels of the microRNA miR-203, which has been implicated in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inhibition. Consistently, in vitro studies revealed that miR-203 was repressed in MECs cultured on a stiff ECM. We also found that a stiffened mammary ECM decreases miR-203 expression and promotes an EMT. Additionally, inhibiting ECM stiffening restored miR-203 levels and reduced an EMT. Moreover and importantly, we showed that triple negative breast tumors that often express EMT markers have reduced miR-203 levels. Studies are underway to elaborate these preliminary findings and to assess their clinical relevance. (This work is supported by the: NIH NSRA T32 CA 108462-11 to Ivory Dean, Susan G Komen PDF12230246 to Irene Acerbi, W81XWH-13-1-0216, USMRAA DOD-BCRP BC122990, NIH R01 CA138818-01A1 and NIH R01 CA192914-01 to Valerie Weaver.)

Citation Format: Ivory Dean, Irene Acerbi, Janna Mouw, Quanming Shi, Yunn-Yi Chen, Jan Liphardt, Shelley Hwang, Valerie Weaver. Interplay between ECM stiffness, miR-203 and mammographic density. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C24.
Abstract C28: Ligand-conjugated Biosynthesized Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for the Detection of Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Obayemi John David , Hu Jingjie , Uzonwanne Vanessa O. , Odusanya Olushola S. , Malatesta Karen , Anuku Nicolas , Soboyejo Winston O.
Published: March 2017

This paper presents experimental results of the in vitro and in vivo studies combined with immunofluorescence staining that demonstrate the detection of triple negative breast cancer using conjugated biosynthesized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (BSPIONs). Insights on nanoparticles-cells interactions at a nanoscale that are guided by specificity and selectivity in the targeting of triple negative breast cancer cells (MDA MB 231 cells) are being explored using atomic force Microscope (AFM). This study also focuses on the use of ligand-conjugated BSPIONs as targeted contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at an in vitro and in vivo level. The ligands conjugated to BSPIONs are shown (revealed by confocal images via immunofluorescence staining) to have receptors that are overexpressed on the surfaces of triple negative breast cancer cells. The results suggest that conjugated BSPIONs can be used for rapid screening of potentials ligands for specific targeting of receptors that are over-expressed on the surfaces of breast cancer cells. The implication of this work are discussed for the design of robust ligand-conjugated BSPIONs with the appropriate nanoparticles-cells interaction as a contrast agent for enhancing MRI for the detection of triple negative breast cancer.

Citation Format: John David Obayemi, Jingjie Hu, Vanessa O. Uzonwanne, Olushola S. Odusanya, Karen Malatesta, Nicolas Anuku, Winston O. Soboyejo. Ligand-conjugated Biosynthesized Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for the Detection of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C28.
Abstract C46: [Advocate Abstract:] Hope for Lung Cancer
Authors: Gillespie Terry
Published: March 2017

I will list the statistics of lung cancer and the outcomes. I will list how far we have come as far as treatments and outcomes. I will demonstrate how HOPE is related to lung cancer.

Citation Format: Terry Gillespie. [Advocate Abstract:] Hope for Lung Cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C46.
Abstract C56: Formative research to develop a lifestyle application (app) for African American breast cancer survivors
Authors: Smith Selina A. , Whitehead Mary , Sheats Joyce S. , Fontenot Brittney , Mensah Ernest Alema , Ansa Benjamin E.
Published: March 2017

Background: There is a proliferation of lifestyle-oriented mobile technologies; however, few have targeted users. Through intervention mapping, investigators and community partners completed Steps 1-3 (needs assessment, formulation of change objectives, and selection of theory-based methods) of a process to develop a mobile cancer prevention application (app) for cancer prevention. The aim of this qualitative study was to complete Step 4 (intervention development) by eliciting input from African American (AA) breast cancer survivors (BCSs) to guide app development.

Methods: Six focus group discussions (n=60) and three individual semi-structured interviews (n=36) were conducted with AA BCSs (40-72 years of age) to assess barriers and strategies for lifestyle change. All focus groups and interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed with NVivo qualitative data analysis software version 10, allowing categories, themes and patterns to emerge.

Results: Three categories and related themes emerged from the analysis: 1) perceptions about modifiable risk factors; 2) strategies related to adherence to cancer prevention guidelines; and 3) app components to address barriers to adherence. Participant perceptions, strategies, and recommended components guided development of the app.

Conclusions: For development of a mobile cancer prevention app, these findings will assist investigators in targeting features that are usable, acceptable, and accessible for AA BCSs.

Citation Format: Selina A. Smith, Mary Whitehead, Joyce S. Sheats, Brittney Fontenot, Ernest Alema Mensah, Benjamin E. Ansa. Formative research to develop a lifestyle application (app) for African American breast cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C56.
Abstract C75: Community Factors, Socio-Demographics, and Colorectal Cancer Screening among Community-Dwelling Adults in Southeastern Virginia
Authors: Miller Carrie , Lafata Jennifer Elston
Published: March 2017

National colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates have increased in recent decades, however, those living in medically underserved areas may not have experienced comparable screening increases. We evaluated the association of community characteristics including designation as a health professional shortage area [yes vs. no] and percent living in a rural area with CRC screening [up-to-date vs. not up-to-date] among a community-dwelling sample of adults age eligible for screening (50-75 years). Data were from a cross-sectional, mailed survey sent to a random sample of 2,527 residents of southeastern Virginia in spring 2013. N=1567 eligible respondents returned the survey (62% response rate). Respondents were 28% African American and an average age of 62 years (sd=6.9). Seventy-one percent reported being up-to-date with CRC screening. A logistic regression was run to predict the probability of being up-to-date with CRC screening given the community factors, while controlling for race, education, and insurance status. Despite 68% living in a rural area and 40% living in a designated health professional shortage area, these variables were not statistically significant predictors of screening status in adjusted models. However, all other variables included in the model were statistically significant (p<0.01). These results underscore the influence of race, education, and insurance status on CRC screening behaviors, independent of community level factors.

Citation Format: Carrie Miller, Jennifer Elston Lafata. Community Factors, Socio-Demographics, and Colorectal Cancer Screening among Community-Dwelling Adults in Southeastern Virginia. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C75.
Abstract C91: Understanding practices, perceptions, and likelihood of recommending the HPV vaccine among doctors in rural eastern North Carolina
Authors: O'Rorke Shawna , torres Essie , Richman Alice
Published: March 2017

Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine completion rates in the U.S. are low. Provider recommendation is the most important predictor of vaccine initiation and completion. We sought to understand current practices, perceptions, and likelihood of recommending HPV vaccines among doctors in rural eastern North Carolina.

Methods: We distributed a brief 12-item survey to 90 practicing physicians and residents across two community health clinics in eastern North Carolina in March 2015 (44% response rate). The survey asked questions about the likelihood of recommending vaccines to girls and boys of varying ages, comfort in STI discussions, and reasons for not recommending HPV vaccines.

Results: Doctors are significantly more likely (p<0.0001) to recommend HPV vaccines to 9-11 year old girls as compared to boys the same age. No significant differences were found for other age groups. Close to half of doctors in our sample (45%) reported to be slightly comfortable, neutral, or not comfortable talking with adolescents about STIs. Doctors who reported being very comfortable in talking with adolescents about STIs were 3.9 times (p<0.05; 1.029-14.996) more likely to recommend the vaccine to 9-11-year-old boys as compared to doctors who reported less comfort. No significant differences were found comfort in talking with adolescents about STIs for girls in the same age group.

Conclusion: Results provide a better understanding about specific practices and perceptions regarding HPV vaccines among doctors that may influence their recommendation practices. Our data suggests a need for provider training regarding HPV vaccine recommendation and patient-provider STI communication strategies.

Citation Format: Shawna O'Rorke, Essie torres, Alice Richman. Understanding practices, perceptions, and likelihood of recommending the HPV vaccine among doctors in rural eastern North Carolina. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C91.
Abstract IA03: Prostate Cancer Epidemiology in Black Men
Authors: Ragin Camille
Published: March 2017

Prostate cancer is a major global public health problem that disproportionately affects individuals of African ancestry, more than their white and Asian counterparts. Prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates are higher in black US, Caribbean, African and other blacks compared to other racial groups. The aforementioned disparities may be attributed to differences in health cancer screening practices, access or quality of health care, or differences in time to treat following diagnosis. Globally, prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates also vary geographically. Higher incidence and mortality rates are observed in more developed regions compared to less developed regions of the world. This presentation will review the epidemiological trends in prostate cancer among men of African descent in Africa and the Caribbean, highlighting similarities and differences with US. Profiles of the insights from the African Caribbean Cancer Consortium and related efforts in AORTIC on differences in biology and disparities in prostate and other cancers in the African Diaspora will be provided.

Citation Format: Camille Ragin. Prostate Cancer Epidemiology in Black Men. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr IA03.
Abstract IA13: Multilevel studies for better understanding the Hispanic immigrant paradox across the cancer continuum
Authors: Gomez Scarlett Lin
Published: March 2017

The “Hispanic paradox” refers to observed favorable health outcomes among U.S. Hispanics relative to non-Hispanic Whites, which is unexpected due to the generally lower socioeconomic status among Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Likewise, the “Hispanic immigrant paradox” refers to more favorable health outcomes among immigrant Hispanics relative to US-born Hispanics. These paradoxes have been observed for a number of cancer sites, across the cancer continuum, from incidence to mortality. This presentation will highlight evidence of the Hispanic and Hispanic immigrant paradox, specifically observed for breast, prostate, lung, and cervical cancer survival, and for breast cancer risk. By considering neighborhood context, specifically residence in an ethnic enclave, insights can be gleaned for whether the health advantage among Hispanic immigrants might be most attributable to individual's health behaviors and exposures, contextual-level influences like social and built environments or co-ethnic social networks and support, or a synergistic effect of these factors. Methodological considerations, such as differential loss to follow-up and survival bias, will be explored.

Citation Format: Scarlett Lin Gomez. Multilevel studies for better understanding the Hispanic immigrant paradox across the cancer continuum. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr IA13.