The frequency of medical reversals in a cross-sectional analysis of high-impact oncology journals, 2009-2018.
Publication Title
BMC cancer [electronic resource]
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-3-2021
Keywords
oregon; portland
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Identifying ineffective practices that have been used in oncology is important in reducing wasted resources and harm. We sought to examine the prevalence of practices that are being used but have been shown in RCTs to be ineffective (medical reversals) in published oncology studies.
METHODS: We cross-sectionally analyzed studies published in three high-impact oncology medical journals (2009-2018). We abstracted data relating to the frequency and characterization of medical reversals.
RESULTS: Of the 64 oncology reversals, medications (44%) represented the most common intervention type (39% were targeted). Fourteen (22%) were funded by pharmaceutical/industry only and 56% were funded by an organization other than pharmaceutical/industry. The median number of years that the practice had been in use prior to the reversal study was 9 years (range 1-50 years).
CONCLUSION: Here we show that oncology reversals most often involve the administration of medications, have been practiced for years, and are often identified through studies funded by non-industry organizations.
Area of Special Interest
Cancer
Specialty/Research Institute
Population Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Oncology
