Evaluating the role of social determinants of health on disparities in breast and prostate cancer screening and treatment: a retrospective analysis
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Publication Date
2025
Keywords
oregon, oaa 2025, diversity
Disciplines
Medical Education | Oncology | Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences | Population Health | Urology
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer screening and treatment have led to improved outcomes, including earlier detection, increased overall survival rates, and enhanced quality of life across several cancer types. Despite these advancements, significant disparities in cancer care persist across the United States, particularly among racial and ethnic minority groups and medically underserved populations. These disparities are largely driven by the complex interplay of social determinants of health (SDOH). Although extensive research has been conducted, substantial knowledge gaps remain in understanding how SDOH contribute to disparities in cancer screening and treatment, specifically for breast and prostate cancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether an association exists between key SDOH (such as socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, language, geographic location) and outcomes for patients diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer. Additionally, we assessed whether these factors contribute to delayed diagnoses and higher rates of late-stage cancer at presentation. Findings from this study will help inform targeted interventions and policies aimed at reducing disparities and improving outcomes for all individuals across the cancer care continuum. This is a single center retrospective cohort analysis of Providence Health Plan (PHP) patients diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2024. Patients for all lines of business (Commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid) with continuous enrollment in health plan (six years prior to breast cancer diagnosis and 10 years prior to prostate cancer diagnosis) and within screening recommendation age group (≤70 years for prostate cancer and females ≤75 years for breast cancer) were included. The primary outcome is to determine whether SDOH are associated with lower rates of receiving guideline-recommended screening and/or first-line treatment. The secondary outcome is to determine whether SDOH are associated with worse clinical outcome, defined as late-stage disease at time of diagnosis. Results and conclusions will be shared upon completion of the project. This study is IRB exempt. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in breast and prostate cancer screening and treatment 2. Discuss the implications of screening and treatment disparities related to social determinants of health on cancer stage at diagnosis in patients with breast and prostate cancer Presentation Category: Managed Care/Population Health
Area of Special Interest
Cancer
Area of Special Interest
Women & Children
Specialty/Research Institute
Oncology
Specialty/Research Institute
Graduate Medical Education
Specialty/Research Institute
Urology
