Tobacco Cessation Interventions in Non-Respiratory Cancers: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Considering the high rates of persistent tobacco use, effective cessation interventions are needed for cancer patients and caregivers. Despite the need, there is a significant lack of research on tobacco cessation, especially for non-respiratory cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal, cervical, and bladder cancer). PURPOSE: The objective was to evaluate tobacco use and tobacco cessation interventions among patients and caregivers for non-respiratory cancers. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials assessing tobacco cessation interventions were identified. Five electronic databases were searched in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines through July 2023. Studies exclusive to lung, oral, thoracic, and head and neck cancers were excluded. Effect sizes were estimated; risk of bias was assessed. RESULTS: Of 3,304 studies, 17 were included. Interventions included behavioral (n = 6), pharmacotherapy (n = 2), and a combination (n = 9) treatment. Eight studies included a health behavior model; mean behavioral change techniques were 5.57. Pooled magnitude of the odds of cessation was positive and significant (odds ratio = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [Lower Limit 1.02, Upper Limit 1.51]) relative to usual care/placebo. Cumulative meta-analysis examined the accumulation of results over-time and demonstrated that studies have been significant since 2020. Two studies included caregivers' who were involved in the provision of social support. CONCLUSIONS: Current interventions have the potential to reduce tobacco use in non-respiratory cancers. Results may be beneficial for promoting tobacco cessation among non-respiratory cancers. There is a considerable lack of dyadic interventions for cancer survivors and caregivers; researchers are encouraged to explore dyadic approaches.

We aimed to understand effective ways for cancer patients and caregivers to quit using tobacco. We focused on non-respiratory cancers (cancers not related to breathing issues) like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. We reviewed 17 randomized controlled trials designed to help people quit tobacco, which included behavioral therapies (e.g., education and counseling), pharmacotherapy (i.e., medicine), and combinations of both. We found that people in these studies quit using tobacco, especially when more than one approach was used. The studies also showed that these approaches have been more successful since 2020. The research highlighted a need for more studies that include both patients and their caregivers together in the quitting process. This approach, called dyadic intervention, could be more effective in supporting patients and their caregivers. Overall, while the current approaches are promising, more research is needed to develop better ways to help cancer patients and caregivers quit smoking for longer.

Assessing the impact of the skin cancer awareness now (SCAN!) intervention several months following the intervention.

BACKGROUND: West Virginia (WV) is the third most rural state in the US and has a high incidence of skin cancer. Intervention efforts in WV are impeded by structural barriers, low health literacy, and lack of health care access. Community pharmacies and pharmacists are highly accessible and may be helpful in promoting skin cancer prevention. OBJECTIVE(S): The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of the Skin Cancer Awareness Now (SCAN!) pharmacy-based sun-safety intervention at follow-up. METHODS: Surveys assessed SCAN's effect on skin cancer prevention at preintervention and follow-up. The follow-up survey was administered between 8 and 12 months after our initial feasibility study. Questions included demographics, cancer history, cancer worry, knowledge, cancer communication, and skin cancer screening intentions. Multivariate repeated measures ANOVA assessed the change in worry, importance, knowledge, and intentions to be sun safe. RESULTS: Participants (n=56, response rate= 62.2%) had a mean age of 44.7 (standard deviation: 19.3) years. Most were females (87.5%), Whites (92.9%), and 48.2% lived in rural areas. Knowledge and intentions significantly improved over time. At follow-up, participants (41.1%) mentioned that they plan on discussing skin cancer prevention with their pharmacist in the future. CONCLUSION: The SCAN! intervention can be a useful resource for skin cancer prevention in community pharmacy settings. Community pharmacies have the potential to be change agents in skin cancer prevention by providing education on sun protection or detection and by promoting sun-safety behaviors.

Distinguishing clinical factors associated with unintentional overdose, suicidal ideation, and attempted suicide among opioid use disorder in-patients.

Opioid and other drug-related overdoses and suicides are leading causes of injury death and represent a significant public health threat in the United States (U.S.). This study examined clinical factors of three patient groups from two inpatient addiction treatment facilities in Appalachian West Virginia (n = 66). Patients were classified as having: 1) unintentional overdose(s) (OD), 2) suicidal ideation or suicide attempt(s) (SI/SA), and 3) suicidal ideation or suicide attempt, and unintentional overdose (SI/SA/OD). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to determine whether adverse childhood experiences, self-injurious behaviors, substance use history, overdose history, and past year stressful life events were differentially associated with history of SI/SA/OD. Participants in the OD group were more likely to have used heroin in the 24-h preceding their most recent overdose compared to either the SI/SA or SI/SA/OD groups. The multivariable model found participants with history of SI/SA had higher adverse childhood experience scores and more participants with history of SI/SA endorsed childhood physical abuse and teen dating violence. Overall, there are characteristics that distinguish unintentional overdose from suicidal ideation and attempt. Patients with SI/SA/OD appear to have greater clinical severity. More thorough evaluation of drugs involved in overdose and history of self-injury may help distinguish future risk and inform treatment planning.

Factors associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor use among older adults with late-stage melanoma: A population-based study.

ABSTRACT: Improvement in overall survival by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) treatment in clinical trials encourages their use for late-stage melanoma. However, in the real-world, heterogeneity of population, such as older patients with multimorbidity, may lead to a slower diffusion of ICIs. The objective of this study was to examine the association of multimorbidity and other factors to ICI use among older patients with late-stage melanoma using real world data.A retrospective cohort study design with a 12-month baseline and follow-up period was adopted with data from the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry/Medicare database. Older patients (>65 years) with late-stage (stage III/IV) melanoma diagnosed between 2012 and 2015 were categorized as with or without multimorbidity (presence of 2 or more chronic conditions) and ICI use was identified in the post-index period. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to evaluate factors associated with ICI use.In the study cohort, 85% had multimorbidity, 18% received any treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, and/or ICI), and 6% received ICI. Only 5.5% of older patients with multimorbidity and 6% without multimorbidity received ICIs. Younger age, presence of social support, lower economic status, residence in northeastern regions, and recent year of diagnosis were significantly associated with ICI use; however, multimorbidity, sex, and race were not associated with ICI use.In the real-world clinical practice, only 1 in 18 older adults with late stage melanoma received ICI, suggesting slow pace of diffusion of innovation. However, multimorbidity was not a barrier to ICI use.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor use, multimorbidity and healthcare expenditures among older adults with late-stage melanoma.

Background: The objective of this study is to assess the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and multimorbidity on healthcare expenditures among older patients with late-stage melanoma. Materials & methods: A retrospective longitudinal cohort study using Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results linked with Medicare claims was conducted. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze adjusted relationships of ICI, multimorbidity and ICI-multimorbidity interaction on average healthcare expenditures. Results: Patients who received ICI and those who had multimorbidity had significantly higher average total healthcare expenditures compared with ICI nonusers and no multimorbidity. In the fully adjusted model using ICI-multimorbidity interaction, no excess cost was added by multimorbidity. Conclusion: Use of ICIs, regardless of multimorbidity, is associated with increased healthcare expenditures.

Prevalence and risk factors for multimorbidity in older US patients with late-stage melanoma.

INTRODUCTION: Presence of multimorbidity can affect prognosis, treatment, and outcomes of individuals with cancer. However, the prevalence and factors associated with multimorbidity among older late-stage melanoma is not well studied. We estimated the prevalence of any type of pre-existing multimorbidity (autoimmune disorder (AD), physical health conditions (PHC), and mental health conditions (MHC)) among older adults with late-stage melanoma in the United States. We further examined the association of patient-level factors to multimorbidity in late-stage melanoma. METHODS: We derived data on older fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries (age ≥ 66 years) diagnosed with late-stage melanoma between 2011 and 2015 (N = 4,519) from the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry and Medicare claims. We defined multimorbidity as the prevalence of two or more chronic conditions prior to the diagnosis of melanoma. We used unadjusted and adjusted logistic regressions to examine the association of patient-level factors to multimorbidity. RESULTS: An overwhelming majority (85%) of older patients with late-stage melanoma had multimorbidity. Pre-existing PHC multimorbidity (84%) was the most prevalent, followed by AD (12%), and MHC (6%). Age and region were associated with any and PHC multimorbidity. Sex, marital status, and region were factors associated with pre-existing AD while sex, marital status, and dual eligibility were associated with MHC multimorbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Pre-existing multimorbidity was highly prevalent among older individuals with late-stage melanoma; prevalence rates and factors associated with multimorbidity varied by type of chronic conditions. This highlights the need for developing systematic approaches to optimizing care of older patients with late-stage melanoma and multimorbidity.

SCAN! A pharmacy-based, sun safety feasibility study.

OBJECTIVES: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and individuals from the medically underserved Appalachian region are at elevated risks for cancer morbidity and mortality. Skin cancer can be prevented by decreasing ultraviolet light exposure (sunscreen sun protection factor 30, shade, clothing, sunglasses, hats) and can be caught at an early treatable stage through a routine skin examination. The Skin Cancer Awareness Now! (SCAN!) pilot project promoted skin cancer prevention and screening in community pharmacies, using a dynamic communication model. The objectives of the study were to understand (1) the feasibility of the SCAN! and (2) the preliminary impact of the SCAN! METHODS: We conducted pre- and postintervention surveys of the SCAN!, a student pharmacist-led or pharmacy resident-led intervention in community pharmacies (n = 3). RESULTS: Participants (n = 90) had a mean age of 43.8 (SD= 18.4) years, were predominantly white (92.1%), without a college degree (65.6%), and had an average family income in the range of $25,000-$49,999, with approximately 16% falling below the poverty level. To begin, the SCAN! scored highly in attention (mean = 5.8), liking (mean = 6.1), comprehension (mean = 6.7), and intentions to be sun safe (mean = 6.0). Most improved in their knowledge of the amount of sunscreen needed per application for sun safety (66%, P < 0.01) and of melanoma features from pre- and postintervention (39%, P < 0.01). A multivariate analysis of variance indicated that knowledge and intentions improved (all P's < 0.01). Interaction effects indicated that improvements in knowledge were greater for those in the rural pharmacy (P = 0.03), and improvements in perceived importance were greater for those in urban pharmacies (P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: The SCAN! intervention was well received by the population. Our study provides evidence that community pharmacy is a novel venue for skin cancer prevention interventions, particularly for rural, medically underserved populations.

Feasibility and acceptability of safety screening among patients receiving addiction treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Premature mortality associated with opioid-related overdose and suicide is a significant public health problem in the United States. Approximately 20-30% of individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) have a history of both suicide attempt and unintentional opioid overdose. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of a standardized screen for suicide and overdose among patients receiving addiction treatment. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of patients (n = 113) recruited from two inpatient treatment programs. We used a modified version of the Patient Safety Screener (mPSS) to screen for suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and overdose. Study staff administered the screen in-person during treatment, and we linked results to administrative clinical data. Subjects (n = 108) and members of their clinical care team (n = 20) completed a screening acceptability survey. We recorded a positive mPSS if a patient reported suicidal ideation in the past two weeks, a suicide attempt, and/or an overdose in the past six months. RESULTS: Fifty-eight percent of subjects had a positive mPSS screen, and 30.3% reported suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and overdose. Subjects and clinical staff reported that it was acceptable to screen for suicide attempt(s) and overdose(s). About a third of the clinical staff reported concerns about administration time (n = 7) and impact on workflow (n = 6). CONCLUSIONS: Both suicide and overdose are important patient safety factors that should be incorporated into addiction treatment and discharge planning. This study's findings support simultaneously screening for suicide and overdose in OUD inpatient treatment settings. Future research needs to determine whether screening improves provision of services and reduces self-injurious behavior.

Pharmacists' Perceptions of Tobacco Sales in an Elevated-Risk Population.

Background: Policies by the American Medical Association and the American Pharmacists Association advocate for the discontinuation of tobacco sales in pharmacies, yet tobacco sales remain lucrative for pharmacies in the United States. West Virginia has the highest smoking rate (29%) and the second highest lung cancer incidence in the country. Objective: This study examined pharmacists' perceptions of tobacco sales in pharmacies and awareness of relevant policies. Methods: West Virginia pharmacists (n = 195) were surveyed to understand tobacco sales in West Virginia pharmacy, utilizing Diffusion of Innovations as a theoretical framework. Results: Eighty-one percent were community pharmacists, and 39% practiced at independent pharmacies. Sixty-two percent reported that their pharmacies did not sell tobacco. Pharmacists at independent pharmacies were more likely to be in rural areas/small towns, have decision-making control over tobacco sales, and not currently selling tobacco products. Other community pharmacists (ie, at regional and national chains) were more likely to sell tobacco products, not have decision-making control over tobacco sales, and perceive revenue loss from discontinuing tobacco sales. Other types of pharmacists (eg, hospital) estimated a greater number of patients who were smokers/tobacco users. A logistic regression showed that less perceived revenue loss was associated with greater likelihood of not selling tobacco products (all Ps < .05). Conclusions: Findings indicate a strong movement among community pharmacists to curtail the use of tobacco. Generating support for the elimination of tobacco sales and adoption of tobacco cessation initiatives in community pharmacy could help reduce smoking rates in elevated-risk populations.

Depression in patients with type 2 diabetes: impact on adherence to oral hypoglycemic agents.

BACKGROUND: Adherence to oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) is important for adequate glycemic control and prevention of future complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. OBJECTIVE: To examine the impact of depression on adherence to OHAs in patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: Patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes during a 4 year period were identified from a Medicaid claims database. Presence of preexisting depression was determined on the basis of ICD-9-CM codes. Adherence to OHAs was computed using prescription refill data for a 12 month follow-up period from the date of the index OHA prescription. Two separate adherence indices (Medication Possession Ratio-1 [MPR-1], Medication Possession Ratio-2 [MPR-2]) were computed. The impact of depression on adherence was assessed after controlling for confounders such as demographics, comorbidity, provider interaction, complexity of regimen, and diabetes severity. RESULTS: A total of 1326 newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes were identified (depressed = 471; nondepressed = 855). Results of the study indicated that patients with depression had significantly lower adherence (MPR-1 86%; MPR-2 66%) to OHAs compared with patients without depression (MPR-1 89%; MPR-2 73%). Multivariate results indicated that depression was a significant predictor of adherence, with depressed patients being 3-6% less adherent to OHAs than nondepressed patients, after controlling for confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS: Depression significantly impacts adherence to OHAs in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study results imply that depression screening and treatment need to be included in the protocol for management of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Outcomes of inappropriate prescribing of beta-blockers after an acute myocardial infarction in a Medicaid population.

BACKGROUND: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with high mortality. beta-Blockers are known to reduce mortality and reinfarction rates when used for long-term prevention following an AMI. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prescribing patterns of beta-blockers in patients after experiencing an AMI in the West Virginia Medicaid program and examine its impact on patient outcomes. METHODS: One-year pre- and post-AMI data were extracted for 488 Medicaid patients. Prescribing of beta-blockers within 90 days after discharge was evaluated among these patients. Based on American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guidelines, patients were divided into 2 groups: those prescribed therapy appropriately and those prescribed therapy inappropriately (underuse, misuse). One-year all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and cardiac morbidity were compared between the groups using survival analysis. RESULTS: Approximately 64% of the patients were appropriately prescribed beta-blockers and illustrated significantly (p = 0.035) lower all-cause mortality rates compared with the inappropriately prescribed group at the one-year follow-up. Cardiac mortality evaluation showed no significant findings. The groups differed significantly in morbidity outcome (time to first cardiac hospitalization), with the inappropriate group exhibiting later hospitalization at the end of the year (p = 0.019). However, the appropriate group had a higher proportion of hypertensive patients, suggesting more severity compared with the inappropriate group. CONCLUSIONS: Inappropriate prescribing of beta-blockers following AMI was observed in this Medicaid population. Data suggest that there were overall survival benefits associated with appropriate beta-blocker prescribing. However, cardiac morbidity associated with inappropriate prescribing needs to be evaluated after adjusting for disease severity between the 2 groups.