Collection and utilization of oncology big data.

Abstract

e18134 Background: Big Data includes data sets whose size is beyond the ability of typical database software tools to capture, store, manage, and analyze. We sought to gain insight on ASCO members’ perspectives towards Big Data in Oncology. Methods: The survey was conducted as part of the ASCO Leadership Development Program and was electronically distributed to US-based ASCO members. Survey questions explored demographics, practice type, EHR utilization, perceptions about Big Data, and awareness and understanding of ASCO Big Data initiative, CancerLinQ. Statistical analysis was conducted and the data were reviewed. Results: Seventy percent of survey respondents were physicians (n = 1261); 50% had some knowledge of Big Data but only a minority (38%) planned to champion participation in Big Data initiatives. The most frequently cited barriers to participating in Big Data collection were perceived added burden of data retrieval and submission (68%), privacy breach (49%) and potential misuse of patient data (49%). The most valuable aspect of Big Data for practices was population level information for patient management (75%); the most important factor in choosing a Big Data organization was emphasis on privacy and confidentiality of data (53.5%). Participants from NCI-Designated Cancer Centers were more likely to share oncology patient data. Years in practice was inversely correlated with a willingness to share data. Only 25% of respondents were very likely to share oncology data with Big Data organizations, with participants in oncology practice for > 30 years least likely to share data as compared to those with less than 5 years (p = 0.010) and those 11-20 years in practice (p = 0.004). Physicians in practice for > 20 years were least likely to trust information from Big Data (p = 0.004). A majority of patients had heard about Cancer LinQ mostly from ASCO sources, however only 25% were familiar with the details. Conclusions: Big Data has the great potential to provide physicians with novel insights and enhance care for cancer patients although some concerns and barriers exist. Education, outreach and physician champions are keys in further realizing the promise of Big Data for cancer patients.