Geographic distribution and accessibility of clinic trials for advanced-stage pancreatic cancer in the United States: A focus on rural and minority health disparities.

Authors

Wade T. Swenson

Wade T. Swenson II

University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND

Wade T. Swenson II, Emily Westergard , Abigail P Swenson , Zachary Schroeder

Organizations

University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, Gundersen Lutheran Health System Inc, La Crosse, WI, Medical College of Wisconsin - Green Bay, De Pere, WI, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS

Research Funding

No funding sources reported

Background: Our research delves into the geographical distribution and accessibility of clinical trials for metastatic pancreatic cancer patients in the U.S., spotlighting the challenges faced by rural communities and minority groups. Prior research indicated nearly half of these patients would have to commute over an hour to reach a trial site. [1] Our study provides a refreshed perspective on this issue, offering a more comprehensive analysis. Methods: Utilizing the ClinicalTrials.gov portal, we identified active interventional clinical trials for metastatic pancreatic cancer patients as of November 25, 2022. We obtained distinct zip codes linked to these trials and, using 2020 census data, gauged the proportion of the U.S. populace residing within specific distances from these sites. Our analysis encompassed factors like urbanity, ethnicity, and other socio-economic parameters. We also developed illustrative maps to visually represent the U.S. clinical trial accessibility landscape. Results: The majority of Americans diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer have clinical trials within their reach. A significant 65.7% of the U.S. populace resides within a 30-mile radius of a relevant clinical trial site. However, a closer look reveals pronounced disparities based on urban-rural demarcations and racial lines, with American Indians facing the most pronounced accessibility challenges. Conclusions: Our data underscores the uneven geographical spread of these trials. This skewed distribution poses accessibility hurdles for specific demographics, especially those in rural areas and certain racial groups. Our findings underscore the pressing need for strategic initiatives to rectify these disparities, ensuring clinical trials are within reach for every individual, irrespective of their location or background.

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Abstract Details

Meeting

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Session Type

Poster Session

Session Title

Quality Care/Health Services Research

Track

Care Delivery and Quality Care

Sub Track

Health Services Research

Citation

J Clin Oncol 42, 2024 (suppl 16; abstr 11048)

DOI

10.1200/JCO.2024.42.16_suppl.11048

Abstract #

11048

Poster Bd #

243

Abstract Disclosures

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