Breast Cancer Early Detection Program Research Articles

Are National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Recipients Providing Services in Counties Heavily Burdened by Breast and Cervical Cancer?

Alignment of National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) clinical services with the spatial distribution of breast and cervical cancer burden is essential to maximizing programmatic impact and addressing cancer disparities. This study identified spatial clustering of breast and cervical cancer burden scores and assessed whether and to what extent NBCCEDP clinical services were associated with clusters for the 5-year period, 2015-2019. We examined burden scores for spatial clustering using Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) tests in GeoDA. We then used t-tests to compare the NBCCEDP 5-year average percentage of eligible women served clinical breast and cervical cancer services between hotspot (high burden) and coolspot clusters. There was statistically significant spatial clustering in the pattern of breast and cervical cancer burden scores across counties, with hotspot clusters mostly observed in the Southern region, Idaho and Nevada. For both breast and cervical cancer, higher percentages of eligible women received breast and cervical cancer clinical services in coolspot clusters compared to hotspot clusters during each year from 2015-2019. NBCCEDP clinical services can help reduce breast and cervical cancer burden. Yet, during 2015-2019, increased service delivery was not aligned with the spatial distribution of counties with greater breast and cervical cancer burdens. NBCCEDP recipients may improve their impact on breast and cervical cancer burden by prioritizing and consistently increasing service delivery in cancer burden hotspot clusters if they have not already maximized their resources in these areas.

Assessment of the Iraqi Breast Cancer Early Detection and Downstaging Program: Mammography Cancer Detection Rate

Background: In Iraq, early detection and downstaging of breast cancer programs were launched to control breast cancer (BC) in 2000. In the program model, mammography is conducted for normal and symptomatic women. The aim of this study is to assess the program’s model effectiveness in terms of mammography cancer detection rates and other screening determinates in the Iraqi Early Detection Program. Method: This is a retrospective study based on data attained from the Breast Disease Treatment Centre (BDTC) in Sulaimani, Iraq. From September 2016 to August 2021, 35,045 women visited the centre for BC screening and diagnosis of breast disorders. In BDTC, 16,186 mammograms and 1,289 biopsies were conducted, and 404 women were diagnosed with BC. This study measured the percentage of women who visited BDTC for screening, the women’s ages at diagnosis, the cancer detection rate (BC per 1,000 women visiting), mammography detection rate (BC per 1,000 mammograms) and the percentage of positive core biopsies. Results: The cancer detection rate (CDR) in 1,000 women was 11.53, the overall mammography detection rate was 24.96, and the highest rate was observed in 2018 (42.2). The overall percentage of positive core biopsies was 31.34%. The highest percentage biopsy rate was in 2017 (43.84%). From 2016 to 2021, the percentage of visits for screening increased gradually, rising from 9.5% to 28.6%. Conclusion: The early detection program in Iraq is considered to be effective in terms of high mammography cancer detection rates and the percentage of positive biopsy. Compared to the previous data, more women participated in the program for screening than for diagnosis.

Surviving the Storm: The Impact of COVID-19 on Cervical Cancer Screening in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, the cervical cancer screening rate dropped by 84% soon after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges facing cervical cancer screening were largely attributed to the required in-person nature of the screening process and the measures implemented to control the spread of the virus. While the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screening is well-documented in high-income countries, less is known about the low- and middle-income countries that bear 90% of the global burden of cervical cancer deaths. In this paper, we aim to offer a comprehensive view of the impact of COVID-19 on cervical cancer screening in LMICs. Using our study, “Prevention of Cervical Cancer in India through Self-Sampling” (PCCIS), as a case example, we present the challenges COVID-19 has exerted on patients, healthcare practitioners, and health systems, as well as potential opportunities to mitigate these challenges.

Estimating uninsured and underinsured women eligible for Minnesota's Breast Cancer Screening Program.

Since its inception in 1991, the mission of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program's (NBCCEDP) mission is to improve access to mammography. This program has demonstrated evidence showing that it has improved breast cancer screening rates for women who are uninsured and underinsured. However, the literature has shown that NBCCEDP screenings are decreasing, and only reach a portion of eligible women. Reliable estimates at the sub-county level are needed to identify and reach eligible women. Our work builds upon previous estimates by integrating uninsured and insurance status into spatially adaptive filters. We use spatially adaptive filters to create small area estimates of standardized incidence ratios describing the utilization rate of NBCCEDP services in Minnesota. We integrate the American Community Survey (2010-2014) insurance status data to account for the percentage that an individual is uninsured. We test five models that integrate insurance status by age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Our composite model, which adjusts for age, sex, and race/ethnicity insurance statuses, reduces 95% of the estimation error. We estimate that there approximately 49,913.7 women eligible to receive services for Minnesota. We also create small geography (i.e., county and sub-county) estimates for Minnesota. The integration of the insurance data improved our utilization estimate. The development of these methods will allow state programs to more efficiently use their resources and understand their reach.

Who is getting screened? Estimating uninsured and underinsured women utilizing NBCCEDP screening program in a high insurance state.

e18617 Background: The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program's (NBCCEDP) mission is to improve access to mammography and other health services for underserved women. Research has shown that this national program has improved access to mammography services. However, there is limited research describing the total number of individuals eligible to utilize these services. Howard et. al., described women eligible for NBCCEDP services at the state level. Hughes et. al. have improved upon this with the introduction of geographic small-area estimation techniques that allow us to estimate individuals below the census tract level. Our work builds upon Hughes et. al., by accounting for variations in uninsured and insurance status. Methods: We used a geospatial small area estimation technique, spatially adaptive filters, to calculate standardized incidence ratios describing the utilization rate of NBCCEDP services in Minnesota. The American Community Survey (2010-2014) data describing the insurance status was integrated into the spatially adaptive filters to account for the likelihood that an individual is uninsured. Results: We tested three models that integrate insurance status by age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Our composite model, which adjusts for all three insurance statuses, improves our estimates by reducing estimation error by 95%. We estimate that 49,914 uninsured and underinsured women are eligible to receive services within the state of Minnesota. In addition to an improved state estimate, we also provide estimates at county level to better understand the uptake of these services. Conclusions: This analysis addresses a significant gap in the literature by including secondary datasets that allow for a more accurate prediction of both the underlying population eligible to receive services and calculation of utilization rates to address programmatic goals. Spatially adaptive filters are not restricted to a specific administrative unit and insurance status provides a better screening utilization estimate.

Variation in State-Level Mammography Use, 2012 and 2020.

Mammography is a screening tool for early detection of breast cancer. Uptake in screening use in states can be influenced by Medicaid coverage and eligibility policies, public health outreach efforts, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-funded National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. We described state-specific mammography use in 2020 and changes as compared with 2012. We estimated the proportion of women aged ≥40 years who reported receiving a mammogram in the past 2 years, by age group, state, and demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, using 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. We also compared 2020 state estimates with 2012 estimates. The proportion of women aged 50-74 years who received a mammogram in the past 2 years was 78.1% (95% CI, 77.4%-78.8%) in 2020. Across measures of socioeconomic status, mammography use was generally lower among women who did not have health insurance (52.0%; 95% CI, 48.3%-55.6%) than among those who did (79.9%; 95% CI, 79.3%-80.6%) and among those who had a usual source of care (49.4%; 95% CI, 46.1%-52.7%) than among those who did not (81.0%; 95% CI, 80.4%-81.7%). Among women aged 50-74 years, mammography use varied across states, from a low of 65.2% (95% CI, 61.4%-69.0%) in Wyoming to a high of 86.1% (95% CI, 83.8%-88.3%) in Massachusetts. Four states had significant increases in mammography use from 2012 to 2020, and 8 states had significant declines. Mammography use varied widely among states. Use of evidence-based interventions tailored to the needs of local populations and communities may help close gaps in the use of mammography.

Cost-Effectiveness of Breast Cancer Early Detection Program in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

ObjectivesThis review explores the cost-effectiveness of the strategies used in the breast cancer early detection programs of low- to middle-income countries. MethodsA systematic review was performed to identify related studies, published up to August 2021, on PubMed, Cochrane, ProQuest, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. The Cochrane Handbook and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol were referenced during the reporting process. The Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards 2022 criteria were used to assess the requirements of the selected studies. Articles with original data and full texts were included in the review. Non–low- to middle-income countries and non-English articles were excluded. ResultsThis review identified 12 suitable studies, wherein 6 investigated the cost-effectiveness of clinical breast examinations (CBEs), whereas 10 looked into mammogram (MMG) with or without CBE. In 2 studies, the cost-effectiveness of raising awareness through mass media and the use of ultrasounds combined with CBE were investigated. Although cost-effective, MMG incurs greater costs and requires more skill to be performed. MMG screenings before the age of 40 years were not cost-effective. The limitations of this review include variability in the methodological approaches of its selected studies. Most of the chosen studies met the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards 2022 criteria. ConclusionsThis review shows that adopting an age- and risk-based MMG screening approach could be viable in countries with limited resources. Future cost-effectiveness analysis research should include a section on patient and stakeholder engagement with the study’s results.

Abstract P3-03-02: Can artificial intelligence derived ultrasound breast density provide comparable breast cancer risk estimates to density derived from mammograms

Abstract Can artificial intelligence derived ultrasound breast density provide comparable breast cancer risk estimates to density derived from mammograms Dustin Valdez12, Arianna Bunnell2, Thomas Wolfgruber1, Aleen V. Altamirano3, Brandon Quon1, Gertraud Maskarinec1, Peter Sadowski2, John A. Shepherd1 1 University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI 2 University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 3 Instituto Radiodiagnóstico, Managua, Nicaragua Background: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Hawaii and the Pacific. However, while there are programs like the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (BCCEDP) implemented throughout the Pacific, the lack of access to mammography screening and low screening participation rates contributes to very high advanced breast cancer rates in most cases over 50%. Portable breast ultrasound is a promising screening technology for low resource areas. However, without mammography, mammographic density is not available for risk modeling to determine who should participate in screening programs or at what frequency. In this study, we ask if breast ultrasound (US) images can be used to derive an equivalent mammographic density for risk modeling. We utilized artificial intelligence to derive breast density from diagnostic ultrasound images and compared to BI-RADS mammographic density in an established breast cancer risk model1. Methods: We selected women with negative screening visit who either later developed cancer (positives) or did not (negatives) over a 10-year period. Temporally-matched negative mammographic and ultrasound images, cancer outcome status and cancer risk information were sourced from the Hawaii and Pacific Islands Mammography Registry. US images had to have occurred within a year of the mammogram. BI-RADS mammographic density was derived using an existing deep neural network model2. Mammographic density was estimated from US images by training a deep-learning convolutional neural network model. A hold out set of images (Test set of 20% of the total) was used to compare 10-year breast cancer risk using the Tyrer-Cuzick (TC) risk model1 when calculated using breast density from either mammograms or US. The AUC values, confidence intervals, ROC plots and Pearson correlation were calculated and compared. Results: Over the 10-year study period, 1337 had matched mammograms and US images and 65 went on to develop breast cancer. Using the test set, the Pearson’s correlation between breast density from mammography and US was 0.31 (moderate correlation). There were no covariates found to improve this association. The AUC for TC 10-year personal risk was higher when breast density from mammograms was used 0.71 (95% CI=0.57-0.86) versus US images 0.65 (95% CI=0.53-0.76). Conclusion: Overall breast cancer risk was similar when breast density was derived from either mammograms or US. The performance of our US breast density model is expected to improve further when more US training data becomes available. Breast cancer screening programs exclusively using US imaging may be able to provide equivalent risk modeling to clinics using mammography. 1.Tyrer J, Duffy SW, Cuzick J (2004). A breast cancer prediction model incorporating familial and personal risk factors. Stat Med. 2004 Apr 15;23(7):1111-30. doi: 10.1002/sim.1668. Erratum in: Stat Med. 2005 Jan 15;24(1):156. PMID: 15057881. 2. Wu, N., K. J. Geras, Y. Shen, J. Su, S. G. Kim, E. Kim, S. Wolfson, L. Moy and K. Cho (2018). Breast Density Classification with Deep Convolutional Neural Networks. 2018 IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech and Signal Processing (ICASSP), IEEE. Citation Format: Dustin Valdez, Arianna Bunnell, Thomas Wolfgruber, Aleen Altamirano, Brandon Quon, Gertraud Maskarinec, Peter Sadowski, John Shepherd. Can artificial intelligence derived ultrasound breast density provide comparable breast cancer risk estimates to density derived from mammograms [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-03-02.

Accelerating Cervical Cancer Screening With Human Papillomavirus Genotyping

Selective utilization of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping in cervical cancer screening can accelerate clinical management, leading to earlier identification and treatment of precancerous lesions and cancer. Specifically, immediate colposcopy (instead of 1-year return) is recommended in persons with normal cytology and HPV genotypes 16 and/or 18, and expedited treatment (instead of colposcopy) is recommended in persons with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) cytology and HPV genotype 16. The effects of implementing HPV testing and genotyping into a screening program are largely unknown. Average-risk persons aged 30-65 years screened for cervical cancer in the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program from 2019 to 2020 were included (N=104,991). Percentage HPV genotyping test positivity was estimated within cytology result categories. Analyses were performed in 2022. The most common abnormality was positive high-risk HPV testing with normal cytology, representing 40.1% (7,155/17,832) of all abnormal test result categories; HSIL cytology represented 3.0% (530/17,832) of all abnormal test result categories. In high-risk HPV‒positive persons with normal or high-grade cytology, HPV genotyping could accelerate management (immediate colposcopy and expedited treatment) in 5.4% of all persons with abnormal screening test results; if HPV genotyping had been performed in all high-risk HPV‒positive persons with normal or HSIL cytology, approximately 13.1% could have accelerated management. HPV genotyping in human papillomavirus‒positive persons with normal or HSIL cytology could accelerate management in a sizable percentage of persons with abnormal test results and may be particularly useful in populations with challenges adhering to longitudinal follow-up.

Abstract B060: Increasing breast and cervical cancer knowledge in the COVID-19 pandemic in the health system

Abstract The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that for the month of In April 2020, screening tests for breast cancer decreased by 87% and for cervical cancer by 84% compared to the previous 5-year averages for that month. In response to this finding, the Puerto Rico Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Program (PR-BCCPEDP) in collaboration with the insurer Triple S-Salud, implemented a virtual educational intervention and/or face-to-face for breast and cervical cancer in the health centers where Triple-S Salud insurer provides services. The purpose of this initiative was aimed at strengthen knowledge in the early detection of breast and cervical cancer, increase the use of screening tests in the population of interest, and increase the reach of women who do not have health insurance who can qualify for the Program. Methodology: The PR-BCCPEDP entered into a collaborative agreement with the insurer Triple-S Salud to implement an educational intervention for breast and cervical cancer in 12 primary health centers around the island. In the period from October to December 2020, 12 health educators from the Triple-S Salud insurer carried out 131 educational activities with the participation of 875 participants. The educational activities were carried out in person through educational flip charts and virtually using an educational PowerPoint on both types of cancer. The educational materials included topics related to breast and cervical cancer such as: statistics, risk factors, signs and symptoms, early detection guidelines, myths and facts, and barriers to not having early detection tests. Results: The educational intervention in breast and cervical cancer obtained the following results: A total of 875 participated in the intervention, where 100% were women, with an average age of 50 years and the majority (97%) had coverage from the government health plan. The towns with the most registered participants were Bayamón with 18% and Mayagüez with 16% respectively. The virtual form was the most used by the participants (58%) compared to the face-to-face form. Regarding screening tests for breast and cervical cancer, of 75 women who had overdue the breast cancer guidelines, 20% had a mammogram after the intervention. Similarly, 142 women had overdue the cervical cancer guidelines, and 22.6% were carried out the tests after the intervention. Other hand, of the women, referred to the PR-BCCPEDP, 3% indicated not having health insurance, of which 29.6% were recruited and cared for by the Program. Conclusion: Despite security restrictions as a result of the pandemic, collaborations with a health system helped reach a greater number of women to provide education and awareness about breast and cervical cancer. In addition, it can be inferred that the virtual form allowed for increasing the scope of participation in times of pandemic. Lastly, I also helped reach women without health insurance who were recruited into the Program. Citation Format: Omayra Salgado-Cruz, Nelybeth Santiago-Yance, Mirza Rivera-Lugo, Guillermo Tortolero-Luna. Increasing breast and cervical cancer knowledge in the COVID-19 pandemic in the health system [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B060.

Abstract C072: Statewide variability in predictors of survival among geographically and racially diverse breast cancer cohorts

Abstract Introduction The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) provides free breast cancer screening, case management, patient navigation, and connection to treatment for medically underserved and economically-disadvantaged women aged 40–64 years. The aim of this study was to identify differences in predictors of survival between all women diagnosed with breast cancer in South Carolina versus those enrolled in the SC NBCCEDP Methods We established a retrospective cohort of breast cancer patients diagnosed from 2004 to 2015 using the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry. Sociodemographic (e.g., race, age) and clinical variables were abstracted from the registry. We linked registry data to county-level variables to determine levels of social deprivation and residence in a health care professional shortage area using the Robert Graham Center’s Social Deprivation Index (SDI) and the Health Provider Shortage Area (HPSA) designation. Potential exposure variables (e.g., SDI, hormone receptor status, age, HER2 receptor status, time to first treatment, region, insurance status, cancer stage, year of diagnosis, rurality, NBCCEDP enrollment, race, marital status, cancer grade, HPSA designation) were entered into a Cox proportional hazard model to identify significant predictors of survival. The multivariable model utilized a backward elimination process to obtain the best fitting model at a p-value <0.05 for each cohort of survivors (NBCCDP participants and all other breast cancer survivors).Results A total of 34,518 breast cancer patients were diagnosed during this time out of which 873 (2.5 %) were NBCCEDP participants. Overall, there were nine significant predictors namely race, cancer stage, age, hormone receptor status, HER receptor, cancer grade, marital status, insurance status, and diagnosis year. Among NBCCEDP participants, there were four significant predictors namely cancer stage, age, hormone status, and region. Region was the only significant predictor variable unique to NBCCEDP participants with those living in the Midlands region having an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1-2.8 compared with participants who lived in Lowcountry region. Overall, in both cohorts, race was one of the significant independent predictor variables with Black women having an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1-1.3 compared with white women. Conclusions Survival was significantly poorer among NBCCEDP participants living in the Midlands region, and Black women overall. To reduce survival disparities and enhance efficiency of NBCCEDP, efforts directed at enhancing support and eliminating barriers to timely detection and treatment should be focused on NBCCEDP participants living in the Midlands region of the state and Black women generally. Citation Format: Oluwole A. Babatunde, Whitney E. Zahnd, Eric Adjei Boakye, Melanie S. Jefferson, Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters, Chanita Hughes Halbert, Swann A. Adams. Statewide variability in predictors of survival among geographically and racially diverse breast cancer cohorts [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C072.

Early Detection Program for Breast and Cervical Cancer in Indonesia: How is Implementation?

Breast and cervical cancer have ranked first and second in terms of the highest cancer cases in Indonesia. The high incidence of breast and cervical cancer is due to the low coverage of early detection. This study aimed to examine the implementation of breast cancer early detection programs using the SADANIS method and cervical cancer using the IVA method. This current study used a qualitative and descriptive approach through input, process, output, and impact variables. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation review. The results revealed that the number of trained human resources, facilities, and infrastructure was sufficient. The program had also implemented online and offline information systems and was actively conducting inspections integrated with the “Family Planning” program. The high achievement of the program had also been supported by the existence of an innovative screening system and direct examination in the community. The program achievements for 2021-2022 (January-June) and cases of cervical cancer had decreased. Implementing the early detection program for breast and cervical cancer is considered better. It can thus become a model for other regencies.

Integrated interventions and supporting activities to increase uptake of multiple cancer screenings: conceptual framework, determinants of implementation success, measurement challenges, and research priorities

BackgroundScreening for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer has been shown to reduce mortality; however, not all men and women are screened in the USA. Further, there are disparities in screening uptake by people from racial and ethnic minority groups, people with low income, people who lack health insurance, and those who lack access to care. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds two programs—the Colorectal Cancer Control Program and the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program—to help increase cancer screenings among groups that have been economically and socially marginalized. The goal of this manuscript is to describe how programs and their partners integrate evidence-based interventions (e.g., patient reminders) and supporting activities (e.g., practice facilitation to optimize electronic medical records) across colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer screenings, and we suggest research areas based on implementation science.MethodsWe conducted an exploratory assessment using qualitative and quantitative data to describe implementation of integrated interventions and supporting activities for cancer screening. We conducted 10 site visits and follow-up telephone interviews with health systems and their partners to inform the integration processes. We developed a conceptual model to describe the integration processes and reviewed screening recommendations of the United States Preventive Services Task Force to illustrate challenges in integration. To identify factors important in program implementation, we asked program implementers to rank domains and constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.ResultsHealth systems integrated interventions for all screenings across single and multiple levels. Although potentially efficient, there were challenges due to differing eligibility of screenings by age, gender, frequency, and location of services. Program implementers ranked complexity, cost, implementation climate, and engagement of appropriate staff in implementation among the most important factors to success.ConclusionIntegrating interventions and supporting activities to increase uptake of cancer screenings could be an effective and efficient approach, but we currently do not have the evidence to recommend widescale adoption. Detailed multilevel measures related to process, screening, and implementation outcomes, and cost are required to evaluate integrated programs. Systematic studies can help to ascertain the benefits of integrating interventions and supporting activities for multiple cancer screenings, and we suggest research areas that might address current gaps in the literature.

Retrenchment of Wisconsin’s Well Woman Program and changes in insurance coverage around the Affordable Care Act

Since before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), states have partnered with the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) to support access to cancer screening and treatment for uninsured/underinsured women. The Wisconsin Well Woman Program (WWWP) was one such program, supporting low-income women across the state. With ACA introduction, Wisconsin substantially downsized/restructured the WWWP, expecting the reduction in services to be offset by the rise in ACA-provided insurance coverage. This study assesses whether retrenchment in the WWWP following the ACA indeed prompted a differential rise in insurance coverage among the program’s target population. We use a difference-in-differences (DID) design to contrast changes in county-level, target-population insurance rates, over 2008–2018, in Wisconsin counties previously most served by the WWWP vs those least served, adjusting for systematic differences across counties, including pre-policy trends. Pre-ACA (2011–2013), most-served counties had lower insurance rates by 2.5 percentage points (pp) than least-served counties; WWWP services likely compensated for some of that gap. In 2014–2015, along with WWWP’s steep contraction, insurance rates rose sharply across all counties. Our primary DID analysis and event study suggest that WWWP contraction might have differentially driven more insurance take-up in most-served counties, by 1.88 pp [95 % Confidence Interval: 0.23,3.54], thus narrowing the pre-ACA gap. Sensitivity analyses suggest much smaller gains. Notwithstanding such potential insurance gains following program contraction, continued support for care navigation and coordination remain necessary to truly meet the needs of the vulnerable women previously served by the WWWP and similar programs across states.

Geographic Examination of COVID-19 Test Percent Positivity and Proportional Change in Cancer Screening Volume, National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

IntroductionIn 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant declines in cancer screening, including among women served by the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). This study examined the spatial association between state-based COVID-19 test percent positivity and proportional change in NBCCEDP screening volume.MethodsUsing the COVID-19 Diagnostic Laboratory Testing dataset, we calculated state-based monthly COVID-19 test percent positivity from July through December 2020 and categorized rates into low, medium, and high groups. We used data from 48 NBCCEDP state awardees to calculate the state-based monthly proportional change in screening volume and compared data for July–December 2020 with the previous 5-year average for those months. We categorized changes in screening volume into large decrease, medium decrease, and minimal change and created maps of the associations between variable subgroups by using bivariate mapping in QGIS.ResultsBivariate relationships between COVID-19 test percent positivity and proportional change in cancer screening volume varied over time and geography. In 5 of 6 months, 4 states had high COVID-19 test percent positivity and minimal change in breast or cervical cancer screening volume; 2 states had high COVID-19 test percent positivity and minimal change in breast and cervical cancer screening volume.ConclusionSome states maintained pre–COVID-19 screening volumes despite high COVID-19 test percent positivity. Follow-up research will be conducted to determine how these states differ from those with consistent decreases in screening volume and identify factors that may have contributed to differences. This information could be useful for planning to maximize NBCCEDP awardees’ ability to maintain screening volume during future public health emergencies.

An update to a retrospective comparison of results between the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and NCI cancer center based early detection program with evidenced based patient navigation and social work support.

e18572 Background: The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) through the CDC has provided uninsured women access to breast and cervical cancer screening/diagnostic services. The uninsured face obstacles which include fear, lack of access and trust in the system, financial and logistical barriers to accessing health care services (Natale-Pereira, et.al, 2011) Disparities in access to screening and diagnostic testing, cancer treatment and survivorship is well documented for medically vulnerable populations that impact stage of diagnosis and mortality (Guadagnolo, Dohan & Raich 2011). The Jefferson's program participates in the NBCCEDP program and uses other private resources which incorporate Social Work core competencies that provide assistance to address barriers. The program navigates along the continuum of cancer care (e.g, prevention, screening, treatment and survival). We have found in a comparative analysis that TJUH’s program has higher rates of diverse racial and ethnic participation of key medically underserved demographics than the National Program. Methods: TJUH's program employs a clinical model, Clinical Patient Navigation with a Licensed Clinical Social Worker operating from a strengths based framework to direct care with administrative support. The program utilizes best practices for working with the at risk population: translation services for the Limited English Proficient, appointment confirmation, transportation assistance and psychosocial support from initial point of contact through final diagnosis. Program staff coordinate internal and external referrals from multiple providers. Results: The study population includes 3144 participants who received breast and cervical cancer screening services through the program from 2012 through 2020. 13.9% were white, 41.7% were African-American, 24.5% were Asian and 19.1% Latinx participated in the program, Table. The age of the participants was slightly younger than the National program as well with 15% under 40, 46% between the ages of 40-49. Conclusions: TJUH’s program provides comprehensive psychosocial support to address barriers along the continuum of screening and diagnostic services leading with increased participation among at risk populations. This further reduces no show rates and participants being lost to follow up. TJUH’s program screens a larger proportion of African American and Asian and younger women compared to the NBCCED program. Additionally, we serviced a slightly younger population than the national program. TJUH’s program addresses health disparities and inequity in access to cancer screening services as shown by the data of the diversity of the participants.

Health System Costs of a Breast Cancer Early Diagnosis Program in a Rural District of Rwanda

PURPOSE Low-and-middle-income countries require information about effective and pragmatic strategies to facilitate earlier breast cancer diagnoses. A Breast Cancer Early Detection (BCED) program training health workers and establishing breast clinics in Burera District, Rwanda was associated with increased evaluation of breast symptoms and higher incidence of early-stage breast cancer. We examined the program's cost from the health system perspective. METHODS The BCED program's first phase started in 2015 and included seven health centers (HCs) and Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence (BCCOE), the cancer referral center at Butaro Hospital. Patient volume and diagnoses from 2015 to 2017 were abstracted from existing databases. We retrospectively reviewed administrative data to identify start-up and ongoing operational costs. Using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing, clinical costs per patient visit were estimated based on HC and BCCOE visits for breast health care observed in 2021. RESULTS Over the first 2 years, there were 1,010 HC visits for breast symptoms, 210 referrals to BCCOE, and 10 breast cancers diagnosed. The BCED program's total cost was $119,511, comprising of start-up costs ($36,917), recurring operational costs ($67,711) and clinical costs ($14,883). Clinical breast assessment (CBA) at HCs cost $3.27/visit. At BCCOE, CBA-only visits cost $13.47, CBA/ultrasound cost $14.79, and CBA/ultrasound/biopsy cost $147.81. Overall, the clinical cost per breast cancer diagnosed was $1,488. The primary cost drivers were personnel at HCs (55%) and biopsy supplies at BCCOE (46%). In other districts, patients must go to their local HC and district hospital before referral to BCCOE, adding about $14.00/patient. CONCLUSION The BCED program's cost at HCs was modest, similar to other outpatient HC services. Hospital-level care was more expensive and requiring multiple visits for biopsies increased costs. Start-up and operational costs could be reduced by using local trainers and virtual/mobile mentorship. For scalability in other districts, decentralizing ultrasound and/or biopsies to district hospitals could reduce costs.

Role of Medicaid in Early Detection of Screening-Amenable Cancers.

This study examines the association between Medicaid enrollment, including through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), and distant stage for three screening-amenable cancers: breast, cervical, and colorectal. We use the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Cancer Registry linked with Medicaid enrollment data to compare patients who were Medicaid insured with patients who were not Medicaid insured. We estimate the likelihood of distant stage at diagnosis using logistic regression. Medicaid enrollment following diagnosis was associated with the highest likelihood of distant stage. Medicaid enrollment through NBCCEDP did not mitigate the likelihood of distant stage disease relative to Medicaid enrollment prior to diagnosis. Non-Hispanic Black patients had a greater likelihood of distant stage breast and colorectal cancer. Residing in higher socioeconomic areas was associated with a lower likelihood of distant stage breast cancer. Medicaid enrollment prior to diagnosis is associated with a lower likelihood of distant stage in screen amenable cancers but does not fully ameliorate disparities. Our study highlights the importance of health insurance coverage prior to diagnosis and demonstrates that while targeted programs such as the NBCCEDP provide critical access to screening, they are not a substitute for comprehensive insurance coverage.

Implementation of a large-scale breast cancer early detection program in a resource-constrained setting: real-world experiences from 2 large states in India.

BackgroundThe Breast Health Initiative (BHI) was launched to demonstrate a scalable model to improve access to early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.MethodsA package of evidence‐based interventions was codesigned and implemented with the stakeholders, as part of the national noncommunicable disease program, through the existing primary health care system. Data from the first 18 months of the BHI are presented.ResultsA total of 108,112 women received breast health education; 48% visited the health facilities for clinical breast examination (CBE), 3% had a positive CBE result, and 41% were referred to a diagnostic facility. The concordance of CBE findings between health care providers and adherence to follow‐up care improved considerably, with more women visiting the diagnostic facilities and completing diagnostic evaluation within 1 month from initial screening, and with only 9% lost to follow‐up. The authors observed a clinically meaningful decrease in time to complete diagnostic evaluation with biopsy, from 37 to 9 days.ConclusionsThe results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a large‐scale, decentralized breast cancer early detection program delivered through the existing primary health care system in India.

Abstract PO-065: Increasing breast and cervical cancer knowledge during COVID-19 pandemic in collaboration with Cooperative Extension Program

Abstract Introduction: The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in April 2020, screening tests for breast cancer decreased by 87% and 84% for cervical cancer, compared to the averages of the previous 5-year for the same month. In response to this finding, the Puerto Rico Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Program (PR-BCCPEDP), in collaboration with the Cooperative Extension Program (CEP), implemented an educational intervention of breast and cervical cancer in the northeast region of the island. The intervention aimed to reinforce knowledge in the early detection of breast and cervical cancer, increase screening tests, and reach out to women without health insurance who may qualify for the Program. Methodology: Since 2017, the PR-BCCPEDP agreed with the CEP to implement educational interventions for breast and cervical cancer in 4 of CEP's regions throughout the island. From February to May 2021, seven CEP Family and Consumer Educators (EFC) carried out 8 educational activities with 182 participants in the island's northeast region. We collected age, town of residence, level of education, health insurance, breast and cervical cancer screening history, and the reasons for not having performed screening tests according to the recommended guidelines. The educational activities were performed virtually through an educational PowerPoint and face-to-face using flip charts. The topics included breast and cervical cancer statistics, risk factors, symptoms, early detection guidelines, myths and facts, and barriers to not having screening tests. Participants that didn't have the screening tests according to the recommended guidelines had follow-up calls. Results: A total of 182 women participated in the intervention, with an average age of 47 years; most participants had a high school degree (42%), and 59% had the government's health plan. Regarding screening tests, 35.1% reported that they had not had a mammogram in the last two years, 73.4% authorized to be contacted after the intervention. Similarly, Pap tests, 30.7% reported that they had not had a Pap test in the last three years, of which 87.5% authorized to be contacted. Of the participants who had not had a mammogram (35.1%) or Pap test (30.7%), the main reason was the COVID-19 Pandemic (22.9% and 21.8%, respectively). Regarding the participants referred to the PR-BCCPEDP, 3.6% of the women without health insurance were referred to the Program and of these, 50% were recruited. Conclusion: Despite security, restrictions from the Pandemic, collaborations with community-based programs helped to reach a greater number of women to provide education and awareness about breast and cervical cancer. In terms of breast and cervical cancer screening, more than a third of the participants had not had their mammogram or Pap done due to the Pandemic. Women were recruited for the Program; however, additional efforts are necessary in order to reach a higher number of uninsured women. Citation Format: Omayra Salgado, Ircha Martinez, Nelybeth Santiago, Mirza Rivera, Taina De La Torre, Guillermo Tortolero. Increasing breast and cervical cancer knowledge during COVID-19 pandemic in collaboration with Cooperative Extension Program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-065.