Younger Patients with Colon Cancer are More Likely to Experience Financial Toxicity Than Older Patients.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The incidence of young-onset colon cancer is increasing. This study investigated the extent to which financial hardships associated with colon cancer care are associated with patient age. METHODS: A consecutive sample of patients with non-metastatic colon cancer who underwent resection at a comprehensive cancer center between 2017 and 2019 were retrospectively enrolled from a clinical database. Patients with one or more of the following events associated with their colon cancer care were categorized as having experienced financial toxicity two or more bills sent to collections, application for a payment plan, settlement, bankruptcy, or enrollment in a financial assistance program. RESULTS: Of 764 patients identified, 157 (21 %) experienced financial toxicity. In a univariable analysis, financial toxicity was significantly associated with younger age, female sex, nonpartnered marital status, and median income by ZIP code area (p < 0.05). A multivariable analysis showed that with each 10-year decrease in patient age, the odds of financial toxicity increased by 30 % (odds ratio [OR], 1.30; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.14-1.48). With each $50,000 decrease in median income by ZIP code area, the odds of financial toxicity increased by 35 % (OR, 1.35; 95 % CI, 1.05-1.74). CONCLUSIONS: Younger patients with colon cancer are at greater risk for financial toxicity than older patients. As this population continues to grow, so will the need for timely and effective financial support mechanisms.