PLYMOUTH MEETING, PA — Research published in the April 2025 issue of JNCCN–Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network has revealed stark disparities in the quality of care and outcomes for individuals diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma (mPDAC). Using data from 14,147 patients recorded in the SEER-Medicare database between 2005 and 2019, the study identified significant inequities based on race, socioeconomic status, and social vulnerability.
Key quality indicators analyzed included guideline-concordant systemic therapy, palliative care, and survival beyond 12 months. The findings showed that patients with higher scores on the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) were 30% less likely to meet at least one of these benchmarks. Additionally, underserved racial or ethnic groups had a 25% reduced likelihood of meeting these indicators, regardless of income, while those with lower socioeconomic status were 34% less likely, independent of race.
“The results of our study highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate disparities in cancer care,” stated lead author Diamantis Tsilimigras, MD, PhD, of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center. “Federal policies that expand Medicaid or Medicare coverage for palliative care, as well as initiatives addressing social determinants of health, could help reduce disparities.”
The study also demonstrated that patients who received appropriate systemic or palliative care had improved survival rates, with quality scores and longevity showing gradual improvement from 2005 to 2019. Senior author Timothy M. Pawlik, MD, PhD, MPH, from The Ohio State University, emphasized the importance of equitable care. “Ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background, receive guideline-concordant care is important to improve outcomes for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer,” he said.
Commenting on the findings, Jason S. Gold, MD, of Harvard Medical School, noted, “This study adds to the body of knowledge by showing that social vulnerability, unmarried status, and lower income are independently associated with lower quality care for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.”
The research underscores the urgency of addressing systemic inequities to ensure all patients have access to high-quality cancer care, potentially improving outcomes for thousands facing this challenging diagnosis.
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