Study Examines Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Quality of Care for Patients with Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer
A recent study in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network analyzed trends and racial/ethnic disparities in the quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC). The study used a quality score based on three criteria: cancer-specific survival of more than 12 months, receipt of systemic therapy, and use of hospice/palliative care services. Nearly 90% of patients met at least one quality criterion, but racial/ethnic minority groups and socially vulnerable populations were less likely to do so. Lower achievement of quality criteria was linked to poorer long-term survival outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve care and reduce disparities for people living with mPDAC.