Disparities in Lung Cancer Treatment Timing in Tennessee
Author Information
Author(s): Mamudu Lohuwa, Sulley Saanie, Atandoh Paul H., Reyes Joanne L., Bashar Raquibul A. K. M., Whiteside Martin, McEligot Archana J., Mamudu Hadii M., Williams Faustine
Primary Institution: Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health
Hypothesis
Black patients with invasive lung cancer would experience longer times to treatment initiation than their White counterparts.
Conclusion
Black patients were often at greater risk of late initiation of treatment for invasive lung cancer in Tennessee.
Supporting Evidence
- Black patients aged <45 years had a 40% increased risk of delayed treatment initiation compared to those aged ≥75 years.
- Patients with private insurance were 8% more likely to delay treatment compared to self-pay/uninsured patients.
- Individuals diagnosed with localized lung cancer had a decreased risk of delayed treatment compared to those diagnosed at the distant stage.
Takeaway
This study found that Black patients in Tennessee often wait longer to start treatment for lung cancer compared to White patients, which can affect their chances of survival.
Methodology
The study analyzed population-based registry data of 42,970 individuals diagnosed with invasive lung cancer from the Tennessee Cancer Registry, using bivariate ANOVA tests and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the administrative data used, which did not capture all relevant variables affecting treatment timing.
Limitations
The study is limited by its cross-sectional design and lack of specific data on types of treatment delays and individual-level socioeconomic status.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 4,480 Black and 38,490 White patients diagnosed with invasive lung cancer in Tennessee.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website