Abstract PO3-10-01: How The Financial Toxicity of Metastatic Breast Cancer Affects Single Mothers with Young Children: Where Disparities Lie and Outcomes For Quality of Life
Authors: Roberta Lombardi, Maryam lustberg
Journal: Cancer Research (2024)

Abstract PURPOSE Financial Toxicity in underserved/underrepresented single mothers living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) diminishes patients' quality of life. The purpose of this abstract is to determine which demographic experiences financial toxicity the most and understand how assisting this patient population financially improves their physical, mental and emotional health, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life for them and their young children. METHOD From July 2022 to April 2023, we invited underserved/underrepresented single mothers living with MBC to apply for a six month financial grant to help pay for rent/mortgage. To be eligible, applicants needed to be 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and have children under the age of 18 for whom they were solely responsible. The patients applying were receiving treatment in different healthcare systems from premier cancer hospitals to small rural hospitals and lived in different states within the US. We were able to assess demographic factors, employment status, and familial support of each patient by the information requested on the application to determine qualification for financial assistance. RESULTS 48 women qualified for our grant based on the criteria stated above. Of those 48 qualified applicants, 26 were African American (54%), 8 were Latina (16%), 2 were Asian Pacific (4%) and 12 were caucasian (25%). All applicants were either no longer working due to treatment related illness or working significantly reduced hours. All were in need of rent/mortgage assistance or would face eviction and 7 were experiencing or had experienced homelessness. Those who had experienced homelessness were black. We provided each of these women with $1,000.00 per month for six months for the expense of rent/mortgage. We provided the funds for those who were homeless to find housing. We also provided grocery cards and funds for children's clothing when requested. All 48 patients receiving grants were able to remain in their home or acquire housing if they had been living in a homeless shelter. All patients reported that having this significant support allowed them to have less stress and therefore, an improved quality of life mentally and emotionally. Once the six months of financial help was removed, 25 African American patients (52%), 3 Latina patients (6%) and 1 Caucasian patient (2%) went back to experiencing financial toxicity and quality of life diminished once again. CONCLUSION This work highlights the tremendous financial burden faced by single mothers living with MBC. Direct financial assistance can help provide stability and support families in this time of significant need. Additional expansion to all states is planned. Citation Format: Roberta Lombardi, Maryam lustberg. How The Financial Toxicity of Metastatic Breast Cancer Affects Single Mothers with Young Children: Where Disparities Lie and Outcomes For Quality of Life [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-10-01.