Evaluating a clinically and culturally informed survivorship care plan trial for African American breast cancer survivors (AABCS).

Abstract

71 Background: This randomized control study was designed to evaluate the impact of trial participation on access to survivorship care planning (SCP) and adherence to surveillance recommendations among AABCS. Methods: AABCS were recruited from the State Cancer Registry and support groups. This trial consisted of 1:1 randomization into two conditions: 1) peer navigation + clinically- and culturally-informed breast cancer (BC) materials, and 2) clinically- and culturally-informed BC materials, only. AABCS (N= 29) from advocacy groups were trained as peer navigators, with on-going supervision and monitoring by the research team. The ASCO-SCP template was modified based on input from survivor-advocates to increase clinical, cultural and socio-ecological relevance. The study was implemented using community based-participatory approach. Mailed, self-report assessments were taken at baseline and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Results: In total, 112 AABCS who were 6-18 months post initial primary treatment for stage 0-3 BC participated in the study. There was a 74% participation rate and a 64% completion rate. At 6- and 12-month follow-up, 65% and 73% reported access to a SCP, respectively. Improvements from baseline in adherence to SCP surveillance recommendations were observed at 6- and 12- month follow-up assessments regarding physical exam (45.6%, 71.2%, 71.0%, respectively), pelvic exam (39.7%, 45.2%, 46.5%, respectively), breast self-exam (45.0%, 79.0%, 81.2%, respectively), and breast imaging (31.1%, 75.6%, 81.1%, respectively) (p< 0.05). There we no significant demographic, medical or study outcome differences by study condition. Conclusions: Our study findings demonstrate the effectiveness of trial participation in facilitating access to SCP and improved adherence to recommended surveillance. Participation of survivor-advocates in developing culturally-informed BC informational and survivorship care strategies can enhance acceptability and sustainability, especially in community and primary care settings. Untapped opportunities exist for survivor-advocate engagement in survivorship research and practice to address inequities. Clinical trial information: NCT01824745.