Abstract C134: Efficacy of mobile mammography and state-funded cancer services in reducing disparities in follow-up adherence: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Mobile mammography programs, such as the one at Stony Brook Cancer Center (SBCC), play an important role in providing breast cancer screening services to underserved communities. Follow-up to abnormal mammogram screenings is critical for early cancer detection, but patients often encounter barriers that prevent timely diagnostic procedures. We aim to evaluate the role of New York State’s Cancer Services Program (CSP) in facilitating follow-up care among underserved patients who participated in SBCC’s mobile mammography initiative. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 817 mobile mammography patients who required additional testing following an abnormal mammogram over a five-year period. Of these, 68% were beneficiaries of the CSP, while 32% were insured. Results: Our findings revealed that among CSP beneficiaries, only 3.5% were lost to follow-up, compared to a significant 16.5% of insured patients who did not adhere to recommended follow-up care. This suggests that the CSP’s supportive role is critical in ensuring follow-up care among underserved communities. Conclusions: The CSP’s substantial impact on follow-up care adherence highlights the program's effectiveness in reducing healthcare disparities. However, more work is needed to enhance follow-up care adherence among insured patients. Solutions may include identifying and addressing barriers to care and implementing targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes. Implications for Policy or Practice: Mobile mammography programs, such as SBCC’s initiative, demonstrate a potential strategy for reducing health disparities in breast cancer screening and detection. Securing access to follow-up care is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Addressing barriers to care, strengthening patient education, and enhancing outreach efforts can increase participation in screening initiatives, thus advancing health equity and reducing disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Citation Format: Patrick J. Dineen, Mollie M. Williams. Efficacy of mobile mammography and state-funded cancer services in reducing disparities in follow-up adherence: A retrospective analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr C134.