Geographic disparities in surgical treatment recommendation patterns and survival for pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Abstract

BackgroundPrevious studies have described pessimistic attitudes of physicians toward recommending surgery for early-stage pancreatic adenocarcinoma. However, the impact of geographic region on recommendation patterns of surgical treatment for potentially resectable pancreatic cancer is unknown. MethodsThe SEER registry was used to identify patients with early-stage pancreatic adenocarcinoma (AJCC I-II) [2004–2013]. The exposure of interest was geographic region of diagnosis: Midwest, West, Southeast or Northeast. The endpoints of interest were recommendation of no surgery, and overall survival. ResultsA total of 24,408 patients were identified [Midwest – 10.6%, West – 50.1%, Southeast – 21.7% and Northeast – 17.6%]. Overall, 38% of patients had a recommendation of no surgery by their provider. On univariate analysis, the likelihood of having a recommendation of no surgery was lowest in the NE [OR: Northeast (0.8), West (1.6), Southeast (1.3), and Midwest (Ref); p < 0.05 for all]. This association persisted following risk adjustment. Geographic region was an independent predictor of mortality, irrespective of resection status. ConclusionSignificant disparities in surgical treatment recommendation patterns and survival for early-stage pancreatic cancer exist based on geographic location. Improved adherence to guideline-driven treatment recommendations, standardization of care processes, and regionalization may help stem the existing variability in care and outcomes.