COVID-19-Associated Outcomes of Critical Illness in Patients with Frailty: a Cohort Study.

Background: Pre-admission frailty has been associated with higher hospital mortality in patients with critical illness. We aimed to measure the prevalence of frailty and its associated outcomes in patients with COVID-19 critical illness. Methods: A historical cohort study of all adults admitted to ICU with a pneumonia diagnosis in Alberta, Canada between May 1, 2020, and October 31, 2020. At ICU admission patients were routinely assessed for frailty using the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS). Frailty was defined as a CFS score ≥5. Primary outcomes were pre-admission frailty prevalence and hospital mortality. Results: The cohort (n=521) prevalence of frailty was 34.2% (n=178), mean (SD) age was 58.8 (14.9) years, APACHE II 22.8 (8.0), and 39.5% (n=206) were female. COVID-19 pneumonia was diagnosed in (19.0%; n=99) admissions; pre-admission frailty was present in 20.2% (n=20) vs. 79.8% (n=79) non-frail (p<.001). Among ICU patients admitted with COVID-19, hospital mortality in frail patients was 35.4% (n=63) vs. 14.0% (n=48) in non-frail (p<.001). Conclusion: Pre-admission frailty was present in 20.2% of COVID-19 ICU admissions and was associated with higher risk of hospital mortality. Frailty assessment may yield valuable prognostic information when considering COVID-19 ICU admission; however, further study is needed to identify effect on patient-centred outcomes in this heterogeneous population.

Is it really over when it is over? physical, mental and emotional health status of long-term breast cancer survivors compared to healthy matched controls.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess pain, fitness condition, physical activity (PA) level, comorbidities, cancer-related fatigue (CRF), mood state and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCS) compared to women without cancer history, matched by age, weight, height, and educational level. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted in Granada between April 2018 and July 2023 involved 80 LTBCS and 80 matched controls. Pain, fitness condition, PA level, comorbidities, CRF, mood state, and HRQoL were evaluated ≥ 5 years post-diagnosis using validated instruments. RESULTS: LTBCS, compared to the controls, reported significantly higher levels of "pain intensity and interference", CRF (in all domains and > 40% exhibited moderate-to-severe fatigue levels), "sadness-depression", "anxiety", "anger/hostility", and "symptom scales" (All: P = .000 to .027). Moreover, 66.25% of LTBCS not only did not reach recommended PA levels (P = .035), but also presented significantly lower levels of "general physical fitness", "muscular strength", "happiness", "functioning scales" (except "emotional functioning"), and "global health status" (All: P = .000 to .048). CONCLUSION: LTBCS still suffer from physical (pain, fitness condition, and CRF), both mental and emotional (sadness-depression, anxiety and anger/hostility) long-term side effects as well as multiple HRQoL issues (including lower levels of physical functioning and higher levels of symptoms). These findings highlight the chronic nature of this disease and the importance of continuing long- term follow-up care for survivors many years after the diagnosis of breast cancer.

Identifying Asian American lung cancer disparities: A novel analytic approach.

Objective: Asian Americans include heterogeneous subpopulations with unique burden as the only racial group with cancer as the leading cause of death. The purpose of the study was to identify differences in clinical stage and survival of patients with lung cancer between Asian Americans and its subgroups relative to other racial groups. Methods: Patients with lung cancer from 2016 National Cancer Database were divided into East Asian, Southeast Asian, South Asian subgroups based on geographic origins, and a composite Asian American group with White non-Hispanic, Black, and Hispanic comparison groups. Columnar z score analysis with adjusted residuals was employed and the terms underrepresented and overrepresented were utilized to describe significant statistical findings. Results: A total of 825,448 patients were analyzed. Asian Americans were underrepresented relative to White non-Hispanics in all clinical stages except IIIB and IV. In clinical stage IV, Asian Americans (51.0%), East Asians (47.2%), Southeast Asians (57.4%), and South Asians (52.2%) were overrepresented relative to White non-Hispanics (42.2%) and Southeast Asians were overrepresented relative to East Asians and South Asians. For survival across all stages, Asian Americans were overrepresented relative to White non-Hispanics and Blacks, but in clinical stage IV, Southeast Asians (17.9%) were underrepresented relative to East Asians (26.0%) and South Asians (26.6%). Conclusions: This is the first study to address lung cancer disparity in Asian American subgroups employing a novel analytical approach. Asian American subgroups demonstrated more advanced lung cancer diagnosis yet higher survival compared with White non-Hispanics, Blacks, and/or Hispanics with differences between subgroups. Interplay of complex factors may contribute to Asian American health disparities.

The care pathway experienced by cutaneous melanoma survivors: A qualitative longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: The optimal management of cutaneous melanoma is based on implementing a multidisciplinary tumour board. No studies report cutaneous melanoma patients' perspective along the whole care pathway, taking us through their care experience longitudinally. AIMS: To explore the patients' perspective on the cutaneous melanoma care journey in a skin cancers' tertiary referral centre. METHODS: A longitudinal qualitative study was designed, using semi-structured interviews. Cutaneous melanoma patients were interviewed three times (T0, after diagnosis; T1, after the first postoperative visit; and T2, at the follow-up). Data were analysed using the inductive framework method. RESULTS: Fifteen patients agreed to participate, and 8 completed all three interviews. We generated three themes describing how patients experienced the care pathway: (i) the evolving need for support during the care pathway, (ii) the development of emotions and expectations for the journey's end, (iii) the changing perceptions of hospital services, the care pathway itself, and the Skin Cancer Unit. We have emphasised the shifts in the experience of receiving assistance from the diagnosis to the follow-up stage. The more the care process progressed, the stronger the need for a relationship with healthcare professionals. The emotional impact of becoming a cancer survivor exacerbated the experience and reflected on patients' perceptions of the care pathway. CONCLUSIONS: Adopting a relational approach to reassuring melanoma patients is essential. Our participants expressed needing a medical reference figure as a favourable element. When this is unfeasible, inter-professional training is desirable to help professionals cooperate in a multidisciplinary group and make this collaboration visible to patients.

Japan's cancer survivorship guidelines for exercise and physical activity.

OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to establish the inaugural evidence-based cancer survivorship guidelines for Japan, with a particular focus on exercise and physical activity, in order to enhance health outcomes for cancer survivors. METHODS: A panel of experts, including oncologists, physicians, exercise scientists, epidemiologists and patient advocates, utilized a modified Delphi process and systematic reviews to establish consensus on exercise recommendations for cancer survivors. The panel focused on setting the objectives of the Clinical Practice Guidelines and addressing crucial clinical issues in Japan. Recommendations were formulated based on the strength and certainty of evidence, the benefit-harm balance and patient values and preferences. RESULTS: The panel formulated exercise recommendations for cancer survivors of two age groups: 18-64 years and ≥65 years. The recommendations for both age groups are consistent, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise and physical activity tailored to individual capabilities and health conditions. The guidelines underline the benefits of exercise in improving the overall health and quality of life of cancer survivors. This consensus on exercise recommendations marks a significant step in the development of comprehensive cancer survivorship guidelines in Japan, with potential implications for improving clinical outcomes and advancing research in cancer survivorship. CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines will serve as a critical resource for cancer survivors, highlighting exercise as a key component of survivorship care, and for clinicians, in recommending appropriate physical activities to improve survivor health and well-being.

The associations of muscle-strengthening exercise with recurrence and mortality among breast cancer survivors: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Our systematic review aimed to critically evaluate empirical literature describing the association of muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) with recurrence and/or mortality among breast cancer survivors. METHODS: We included English-language empirical research studies examining the association between MSE and recurrence and/or mortality among females diagnosed with breast cancer. Seven databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, and CINAHL) were searched in September 2023. Quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results are summarized descriptively. RESULTS: Five sources were identified. MSE measurement differed in relation to the description of the MSE (i.e., muscle-strengthening vs. strength training), examples of activities (e.g., sit-ups or push-ups vs. calisthenics vs. circuit training), and exercise frequency (i.e., days vs. times/week). Findings offer provisional evidence that some MSE may lower the hazards of recurrence and mortality. This association may vary by race, weight status, and menopausal status. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, limited available evidence suggests that MSE may lower the hazards of recurrence and mortality. More consistent measurement and analyses would help generate findings that are more readily comparable and applicable to inform clinical practice. Further research is needed to improve understanding of the strength and differences of these associations among underserved and underrepresented women.

Assessing the Conceptualizations of Coping and Resilience in LGBTQ2S+ People with Cancer: Working towards Greater Awareness in Cancer Care.

People with cancer may suffer negative psychosocial outcomes due to the challenges of cancer. LGBTQ2S+ people routinely experience negative psychosocial outcomes in health care settings, but have showcased resilience in the face of discrimination; however, this has never been studied in a cancer context. Thus, this study aims to assess coping and resilience in LGBTQ2S+-identifying people diagnosed with cancer using a strengths-based approach. A qualitative exploratory design was used. Ten self-identified LGBTQ2S+ people who have completed their cancer treatment were recruited. Participants completed clinical, health, and demographic questionnaires and, subsequently, semi-structured qualitative interviews. Conceptualizations of coping and resilience in the semi-structured interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Participants were members of various gender identities and sexual orientations. In addition to identifying needed LGBTQ2S+-specific resources, four narratives emerged: support networks, regaining control in life, conflicting identities, and traditional coping methods. Most participants' cancer journeys were characterized by a 'Second Coming-Out' phenomenon, where LGBTQ2S+ people with cancer use coping strategies, similar to those used when coming out, to produce resilience throughout their cancer journey. This work provides exploratory insight into LGBTQ2S+ people with cancer, but more research is required with a larger sample.

A Patient-Centered Conceptual Model of AYA Cancer Survivorship Care Informed by a Qualitative Interview Study.

Purpose: Conceptual models provide frameworks to illustrate relationships among patient-, provider-, system-, and community-level factors that inform care delivery and research. Existing models of cancer survivorship care focus largely on pediatric or adult populations whose needs differ from adolescents and young adults (AYAs). We developed a patient-centered conceptual model of AYA survivorship care. Methods: We conducted a narrative literature review of current conceptual and theoretical models of care. We engaged AYA cancer survivors (n = 25) in semi-structured one-hour telephone interviews. Most participants were in their 20s and 30s, and the majority (84%) were women. Recruitment was stratified by age and time since cancer diagnosis. We conducted a thematic analysis of interview transcripts to identify themes that exemplified patient-centered care. Results: Most participants identified as white and female. Leukemia and breast cancer were the most common cancer types. Main themes included the need for (1) care coordination, (2) ongoing mental health support, (3) connection to AYA peer support, (4) support during fertility preservation efforts, (5) support with financial burden, (6) support for quality of life, (7) information about and support with side effects and late effects, and (8) attention to the unique needs of young adults. Conclusions: We present a patient-centered conceptual model of AYA survivorship care needs that can inform future cancer care delivery and research.

Investigating Physical, Social, Emotional, and Health Frailties of Cancer Survivors after Cancer Treatment: The Urgent Call for Tailored Multidisciplinary Survivorship Plans in Italy.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the specific needs of cancer survivors is essential for healthcare policy. In Italy, dedicated studies are lacking, so we aimed to investigate the physical, mental, social, and health difficulties encountered by these patients. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study on breast or colorectal cancer survivors (people 5+ years free from it and its treatments) using an ad hoc survey including validated questionnaires (Grauer-Palombi, SF-36, PREDIMED). Participants were recruited within the Oncology Unit of the "Policlinico Tor Vergata", Italy. RESULTS: A total of 62 patients (80.6% females; years range: 37-87) agreed to be interviewed. A profile of cancer survivors was drafted: an overaged person with multiple co-morbidities, not well-nourished, adhering to the Mediterranean diet, reporting critical conditions as for physical and functional status. The mean number of co-morbidities was 3.6 ± 2.4 SD, with a statistically significant difference between age groups (under and over 65). Compared to the general population, the sample showed more frailties, especially when >65. The risk of having multimorbidity (four or more co-morbidities) significantly increased in those over 65 (OR: 4.72; CI: 1.43-15.59). CONCLUSION: There is an urgent need for survivorship care planning for the patient-centered continuum of care. Assessing and monitoring their specific needs will help propose appropriate and tailored responses.

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in octogenarians: An analysis of 1,466 patients with 2-year follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been shown to improve pain and function in appropriately selected patients. Limited data exists regarding outcomes and complication rates following UKA among octogenarians. METHODS: The PearlDiver Mariner database was queried for patients undergoing primary UKA between 2010-2022. Patients < 80 years old were matched 4:1 to the octogenarian cohort (≥80 years old) by sex, year, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI), tobacco use, obesity, and diabetes. A total of 1,334 octogenarians and 5,313 controls were included in our analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to compare medical complications at 90-days post-operatively and surgical complications at 1- and 2-years post-operatively. Our regression analysis controlled for sex, ECI, tobacco use, obesity, and diabetes. RESULTS: Octogenarians had an increased risk of acute kidney injury (OR: 2.306, 95% CI: 1.393-3.749; p < 0.001), pneumonia (OR: 2.367, 95% CI: 1.301-4.189; p = 0.003), UTI (OR: 1.846, 95% CI: 1.304-2.583; p < 0.001), ED visits (OR: 2.229, 95% CI: 1.586-3.105; p < 0.001), and any complication (OR: 1.575, 95% CI: 1.304-1.895; p < 0.001) at 90-days post-operatively. Octogenarians had lower odds of all-cause revision at 2-years (OR: 0.607, 95% CI: 0.382-0.923; p = 0.026). No differences were demonstrated between cohorts in rates of PJI (OR: 0.832, 95% CI: 0.334-1.796; p = 0.664), periprosthetic fracture (OR: 0.516, 95% CI: 0.120-1.520; p = 0.289), or aseptic loosening (OR: 0.285, 95% CI: 0.045-1.203; p = 0.088) at 2-years. DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that despite an increased risk of certain medical complications within the acute post-operative period, octogenarians undergoing UKA experienced similar rates of surgical complications to younger matched controls at 2-year follow-up.

Shooting for the STARS: Implementing an Evidence-Based Program to Meet the End of Treatment Needs of Childhood Cancer Survivors and Their Families.

Background: The end of treatment (EOT) is a significant time point along the childhood cancer treatment-survivorship continuum, and is recognized as a time when childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and their families experience significant vulnerability and stress. There is a call by families and healthcare professionals alike for standardized, comprehensive EOT services to successfully navigate through this transition period and better cope with posttreatment medical, physical, and social-emotional issues. Method: A multidisciplinary team of pediatric oncology health care professionals developed and implemented a two-session psychoeducational program to address these EOT needs. To evaluate the Shooting for the STARS (Survivors Tackling All Roadblocks Successfully) EOT Transition Program, a pretest-posttest repeated measures design was utilized. A convenience sample of 47 parents/caregivers and 29 CCS completed surveys before, during, and after the EOT services were received. Analysis of relationships and changes over time was conducted using Spearman-ranked correlations and Friedman tests, a nonparametric repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: All respondents reported program satisfaction, with 94.7% feeling somewhat or very prepared for ending treatment. Participants' distress levels tended to decrease over time. Parent/caregiver-reported levels of CCS' anxiety, fatigue, pain interference, and physical mobility significantly improved over the time period during which families participated in the Shooting for the STARS Program. Discussion: This nurse-led, evidence-based program was determined to be feasible and acceptable. It may contribute to improved health-related quality of life and decrease distress over time.

Changes in health-related quality of life, depression, and fear of progression during oncological inpatient rehabilitation and beyond: a longitudinal study.

PURPOSE: Studies evaluating oncological inpatient rehabilitation rarely include follow-up intervals beyond 6 months and larger proportions of patients other than those with breast cancer. Therefore, this study investigated changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL), depression, and fear of progression of patients with breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer from the beginning to the end of oncological rehabilitation and a 9-month follow-up. METHODS: Three hundred seventy-seven patients with breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer undergoing oncological inpatient rehabilitation (median age 61 years, 49% female) completed the EORTC QLQ-C30, the PHQ-9, and the FoP-Q-SF at each measurement point. Data analysis used 3 (tumor site) × 3 (time of measurement) repeated measures ANCOVAs with patient age and time since diagnosis as covariates. At each time point, we also compared our sample to the general population on the measures used. RESULTS: Having controlled for the covariates, we found significant effects of tumor site, which were small except for Diarrhea. Effects of time of measurement were often significant and in part at least medium in size indicating improvement of HRQoL and depression during rehabilitation. At follow-up, some HRQoL domains and depression deteriorated. Women with breast cancer, in particular, showed a greater decrease in emotional functioning then. Compared to the general population, the sample's HRQoL and depression were significantly worse on most occasions. CONCLUSION: Oncological inpatient rehabilitation may improve HRQoL. The subsequent and in part differential deterioration in some HRQoL domains suggests a need for further follow-up care within survivorship programs.

Incidence of lymphedema related to various cancers.

Cancer-related lymphedema (CRL) lacks internationally accepted definition and diagnostic criteria. The accurate incidence of CRL is therefore a challenge and the condition is likely underreported. Patients treated for cancer can develop CRL as a result of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy, which can lead to considerable psychosocial and physical morbidity, and decreased quality of life. Determining CRL incidence is crucial to inform care access and resource allocation, to best support patients affected by this lifelong condition. This review aimed to provide the latest CRL incidence estimates. Using four core databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library), a literature search was performed to capture publications dated between 2015 and 2023. A total of 48 articles (33 prospective studies, 15 systematic reviews) met inclusion criteria, providing a sample size of 234,079 cancer patients. Findings revealed CRL incidence across cancer types varied, reported 2-74% in breast, 8-45% in gynecological and urological, 71-90% in head and neck and 2-29% in melanoma cancers. CRL incidence varied between 3 and 21% in preventative lymphedema surgery patients. Projected increases in cancer incidence and improved survival rates are expected to further escalate CRL incidence. Healthcare systems and professionals alike must therefore prepare to meet the growing needs of CRL patients.

Late effects following hematopoietic cell transplantation for severe combined immunodeficiency: critical factors and therapeutic options.

INTRODUCTION: Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is an inborn error of immunity that is fatal without hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) or gene therapy (GT). Survival outcomes have improved, largely due to implementation of SCID newborn screening. A better understanding of the long-term outcomes and late effects to address critical aspects of monitoring immune and general health life-long is needed. AREAS COVERED: In a comprehensive review of PubMed indexed articles with publication dates 2008-2024 we describe the current knowledge of chronic and late effects (CLE) of HCT survivors for SCID as well as the role of GT and advances for specific SCID genotypes. We review factors affecting the development of CLE including disease related factors (genotype, trigger for diagnosis and presence of infection prior to HCT), transplant related factors (type of donor, conditioning regimen, immune reconstitution and graft versus host disease (GVHD) and describe causes and factors associated with higher risk for late mortality in this unique population. We further describe monitoring and potential therapeutic strategies for management of common CLE in this patient population. EXPERT OPINION: Ongoing research efforts are needed to better describe CLE in survivors, to develop prospective clinical trials aimed at mitigating these CLE, and developing genotype-based approaches for management and follow-up of these patients.

eHealth Platforms Facilitate Prostate Cancer Shared Care: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer survivorship care is essential for the early identification of cancer recurrence and progression and the monitoring of adverse effects. Prostate cancer survivorship programs have enabled care to be shared between specialists using digital healthcare platforms. We systematically reviewed the literature to examine if prostate cancer survivorship care had been successfully digitalised. METHODS: English language articles were searched on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Libraries. The search terms included combinations of "eHealth", "digital health", "prostate cancer", "shared care", and related keywords (studies published between [1 January 1946 and 20 March 2023]). RESULTS: Our search strategy yielded 1722 publications, of which 17 studies were included in our final review. Diverse eHealth interventions (web platforms, apps, patient portals) for digital prostate cancer shared care enabled communication, symptom management, and holistic assessment, with potential for reducing anxiety, enhancing outcomes, and increasing engagement. The studies (9 months to 5 years duration) involved participants across different care phases (16 to 3521 participants). We identified ten eHealth platforms, which provided successful symptom tracking, needs assessment, and communications. The platform-based interventions improved some aspects of communication, symptom management, and care delivery. The ongoing clinical need for a robust digital platform that caters to all domains of shared care was identified. CONCLUSIONS: eHealth will certainly play a central role in digital prostate cancer shared care, providing better health outcomes and care delivery. Future larger studies in this field should address the implementation barriers, including cost-effectiveness and primary care remuneration. It is also crucial to refine application useability and workflow, focusing on standardization and patient-centred approaches.

Association between body mass index and physical activity among prostate cancer survivors.

PURPOSE: We assessed the associations between (1) body mass index (BMI) and participating in any physical activities (PAs) in past 30 days and (2) cancer and behavioral-related variables and participating in any PAs in past 30 days among prostate cancer (PCa) survivors. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from the 2018-2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Multivariable weighted logistic regression was used to examine the associations. RESULTS: Of the 4944 PCa respondents, 22.9% were classified as obese class I and 10.6% as obese class II or III. Obese class I and obese class II or III respondents were significantly less likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days (odds ratio (OR) = 0.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.28-0.84 and OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.20-0.67, respectively). Men who received a summary of their cancer treatment were significantly more likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.03-2.28). Men who received instructions from a doctor for routine check-ups after completing treatment for cancer were not significantly more likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days (OR = 1.36; 95% CI: 0.87-2.12). Current smokers were less likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.26-0.96). CONCLUSIONS: Obese men and current smokers were less likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days. Men who received a summary of their cancer treatment were more likely to participate in any PAs in past 30 days. Health care providers should talk to their patients about the benefits of participating in PA and refer PCa patients to available exercise programs. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: PA was lowest among obese class II or III PCa survivors. These men could benefit from a coordinated multidisciplinary health care team effort to improve PCa prognosis and QoL.

"There is a life before and after cancer": experiences of resuming life and unmet care needs in stage I and II melanoma survivors.

Although the largest increase in melanoma incidence is observed for localised melanoma, little research has been done on its impact. Despite favourable prognoses and relatively short treatment trajectories, diagnosis and treatment may significantly impact life post-treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of stage I and II melanoma survivors' experiences resuming life after treatment and their associated survivorship care (SSC) needs. A qualitative focus group study was conducted with 18 stage I or II melanoma survivors, divided over three focus groups with 6 survivors each. Transcripts were analysed through thorough thematic content analysis, using multiple phases of coding. In resuming life, survivors experienced profound initial impacts of disease and treatment, fed by a perceived lack of knowledge and underestimation of melanoma. They faced unexpected physical and emotional effects post-surgery, experiencing mixed feelings from relief to fear and uncertainty. Survivors felt misunderstood, had to adjust their lives, and managed personal and external expectations while experiencing a positive shift in life perspective, leading to a notable difference in life before and after cancer. In terms of SSC needs, survivors stressed the need for tailored information, accessible resources, patient-centered follow-up, and supportive care addressing the total impact of disease and treatment. These findings highlight the importance of improving melanoma awareness and providing holistic SSC not only to advanced, but also to localised melanoma survivors. A tailored survivorship care plan could facilitate access to information and supportive care, helping patients resume their lives.

Evaluating scholastic achievement in pediatric brain tumor survivors compared to healthy controls.

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy (RT) causes cognitive deficits in pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS). Traditionally, this is measured using neuropsychological testing, which lack pre-diagnosis baseline and do not necessarily trigger action. This pilot project investigated a novel patient-centered outcome of scholastic performance using state-collected educational data. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed scholastic achievements in children residing in Florida. Eligibility in the treatment group received brain-directed RT between 2007 - 2020 at our institution. Controls were matched at a 3:1 ratio by age, grade, district, and free or reduced lunch (FRL) eligibility. The Florida Department of Education provided educational records for both groups. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to predict scholastic outcomes with covariates age, time (binary value of pre- or post-RT), treatment group, and the primary independent variable as the interaction term between time and treatment. Scholastic data was matched with institutional clinical data. RESULTS: Fifty PBTS and 150 matched controls were included for analysis. Median age of PBTS was 12, 12% identified as Black, and 18% as Hispanic. Fifty-two percent were FRL eligible. Forty percent received craniospinal irradiation, and 56% received chemotherapy. Post-RT PBTS had 21 times the odds of receiving accommodations (p=0.006), twice the odds of being retained (p=0.010), and 42% lower odds than controls receiving a passing mathematics score (p=0.068). CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first American experience to successfully link individual scholastic and clinical data. Scholastic performance serves as a meaningful patient-centered outcome complementing the existing suite of neuropsychological testing.

Trust in Black and White Breast Cancer Patients: Opportunities to Enhance Trustworthiness in Cancer Care.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated the relationships between patient and cancer delivery factors with trust in oncology providers in a racial/ethnically diverse group of cancer patients. METHODS: Data were analyzed from a prospective cohort study of women with hormone receptor positive (HR+) breast cancer. A standardized survey collected validated measures of trust in providers, psychosocial factors, and cancer care delivery factors. Multivariable logistic regression models and race-stratified models were employed to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals associated with trust. RESULTS: Of the 567 participants, 28% identified as Black and the rest were White. Compared to White women Black women reported lower trust in providers. Four domains of cancer care delivery were significantly associated with patients' higher trust in their providers: general satisfaction with care (P < .0001), technical quality of the provider (P < .001), interpersonal manner of the provider (P = .0008) and provider communication (P = .0010). Race-stratified models revealed 2 significant cancer care delivery domains for both groups (ie, general satisfaction and interpersonal) and 2 care domains (technical quality and communication) that were only significant among White women. CONCLUSION: Efforts are needed to nurture trusting relationships between Black women and their oncology providers. Factors related to the organization and delivery of cancer care are modifiable targets for interventions as these were robust predictors of patient trust regardless of a woman's self-reported race. Investments in strategies that strengthen the structure and organization of care towards a structures of trust worthiness may better support providers and patients and ultimately reduce cancer care disparities.

Effectiveness of mobile health for exercise promotion on cardiorespiratory fitness after a cancer diagnosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Cancer survivors are at greater risk for cardiovascular-related mortality. Mobile health (mHealth) is an increasingly prevalent strategy for health promotion, but whether it consistently improves cardiorespiratory outcomes after a cancer diagnosis is unknown. We sought to determine the effectiveness of mHealth fitness/physical activity interventions on cardiorespiratory fitness outcomes among cancer patients and survivors. METHODS: Leveraging MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov, we identified studies through May 2023. Included studies provided a quantitative evaluation of an mHealth intervention in a primary or secondary capacity on cardiorespiratory fitness (6-minute walk test, VO2max, 3-minute step test, or systolic blood pressure; or any mention of cardiac measure) and were meta-analyzed (using a random effects model) if they were a randomized controlled trial with sufficient quantitative information. Four coders were involved in applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, coding using a standardized data extraction sheet, and assessing study quality, with each study coded by at least two. RESULTS: Of 656 articles, nine (n = 392) met systematic review inclusion criteria (mean age range 19-62 years, 71.9% female, 60.9% breast cancer). Interventions included mobile apps (k = 6), smartwatches (k = 2), or a smartwatch plus a supplemental web/mobile/tablet app (k = 1); median duration of mHealth-use was 12 weeks. Seven (n = 341) fit criteria for meta-analysis. mHealth was associated with improved cardiorespiratory fitness (d = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.07-0.60) compared to a control group. Relationships remained after accounting for lipid-based outcomes (d = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.03-0.56). There was no evidence for heterogeneity or publication-bias. CONCLUSIONS: mHealth exercise interventions appear to be a viable strategy for improving cardiorespiratory fitness after a cancer diagnosis.