Availability of cranial prostheses for Black patients at comprehensive cancer centers.

Abstract

e13681 Background: For patients who seek to camouflage cancer-related hair loss, cranial prostheses such as wigs and hair pieces exist. We sought to determine the availability of yaki-textured, type IV curls, and afro wigs at boutiques in Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs). Methods: The 56 CCCs in the United States were surveyed to see if they had an affiliated wig boutique or shop for patients experiencing hair loss. Boutique workers were then asked a series of seven questions regarding cranial prostheses options for patients seeking yaki-textured, type IV curls, and afro wigs. The availability of these wigs was compared to US Census data on population size and density of Black residents. Results: Of the 56 CCCs, 26 (46%) institutions had active affiliated hair boutiques, of which 27% (n=7) offered yaki-textured wigs, type IV curls, or afro wigs. Two additional boutiques offered in-store catalogues for Black patients who were interested in naturally appearing wigs. Though two institutions offered a wig bank that was free to all patients, neither had yaki-textured or afro wigs in stock. There was no significant relationship between population or density of Black residents and availability of these wigs. Therefore, most Black patients with cancer who are seeking cranial prostheses will not have access to racially inclusive wigs where they are receiving treatment. Conclusions: Not being able to purchase wigs at CCCs poses potential financial challenges when seeking insurance coverage or reimbursement. Thus, Black patients may disproportionately experience emotional and financial hardships secondary to cancer-related hair loss. With increased inventory of racially inclusive wigs, partnerships with third-party vendors, and support for the prior authorization process, we can better support Black patients experiencing cancer-related hair loss. [Table: see text]