2023 North America Conference on Lung Cancer (NACLC) - Posters and Abstracts-PP01.138 (Poster) Reporting of Sociodemographic Variables in Epidemiologic Studies of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review

PP01.138 (Poster) Reporting of Sociodemographic Variables in Epidemiologic Studies of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review

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Pdf Summary

Sociodemographic disparities, such as race, ethnicity, income, education, insurance coverage, and geographic location, can impact treatment choices and survival outcomes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This systematic review examined the inclusion and reporting of sociodemographic variables in epidemiologic studies of NSCLC. The review utilized data from two US-based cancer registries, the NCI's SEER program and the NCDB. A PubMed search was conducted for original research studies published between 2010-2023, focusing on adult patients with NSCLC. A total of 802 studies met the inclusion criteria out of 1724 identified studies. <br /><br />The most commonly reported sociodemographic variables were age, sex/gender, and race. However, only 20.6% of studies reported Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity, and only one study included sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in their gender descriptors. Language was also excluded from most studies, with only one study reporting it among patient characteristics. All other sociodemographic variables were reported in less than 35% of the studies.<br /><br />The underreporting of sociodemographic variables in epidemiologic studies of NSCLC is concerning as these variables play a significant role in understanding the generalizability of research findings, identifying inequities, and understanding the burden of NSCLC in vulnerable communities. It is essential for scientific articles to include variables such as age, ethnicity, language, gender, SOGI, and insurance status to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disease and its impact on different populations. By addressing these gaps in reporting, researchers can better identify and address disparities in lung cancer outcomes.

Asset Subtitle

Kelly Meza

Keywords

sociodemographic disparities

race

ethnicity

income

education

insurance coverage

geographic location

treatment choices

survival outcomes

non-small cell lung cancer