2023 North America Conference on Lung Cancer (NACLC) - Posters and Abstracts-PP01.138 Kelly Meza Abstract

PP01.138 Kelly Meza Abstract

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This systematic review examines the inclusion and reporting of sociodemographic variables in epidemiological studies of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Sociodemographic disparities, such as race, ethnicity, income, education, insurance coverage, and geographic location, have been linked to treatment choices and survival outcomes in NSCLC patients. The review focuses on studies that utilize data from two US-based cancer registries: the NCI's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program and the National Cancer Database (NCDB). <br /><br />A total of 802 studies out of 1724 identified met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly reported sociodemographic variables were age (96.3%), sex or gender (95.7%), and race (91.8%). However, Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity was reported in only 20.6% of studies, and only one study included sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in their gender descriptors. Language was also often excluded, with only one study reporting language among patient characteristics. All other sociodemographic variables were reported in less than 35% of studies.<br /><br />The underreporting of sociodemographic variables associated with disparities in NSCLC outcomes in published epidemiological studies is a concern. Including variables such as age, ethnicity, language, gender, SOGI, and insurance status is essential for understanding the generalizability of research findings. Additionally, disaggregating data is important for identifying inequities and understanding the burden of NSCLC in vulnerable communities.<br /><br />In conclusion, this systematic review highlights the need for improved reporting of sociodemographic variables in epidemiological studies of NSCLC. By including a comprehensive set of variables, researchers can gain a better understanding of disparities and inequities in NSCLC outcomes.

Keywords

systematic review

sociodemographic variables

epidemiological studies

non-small cell lung cancer

NSCLC

sociodemographic disparities

race

ethnicity

income

education