Racial/Ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in endocrine therapy adherence in breast cancer: a systematic review

Am J Public Health. 2015 Jul;105 Suppl 3(Suppl 3):e4-e15. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2014.302490. Epub 2015 Apr 23.

Abstract

We examined the current literature to understand factors that influence endocrine therapy (ET) adherence among racial/ethnic and socioeconomic subpopulations of breast cancer patients. We searched PubMed and PsycINFO databases for studies from January 1, 1978, to June 20, 2014, and January 1, 1991, to June 20, 2014, respectively, and hand-searched articles from relevant literature reviews. We abstracted and synthesized results within a social ecological framework. Fourteen articles met all inclusion criteria. The majority of included articles reported significant underuse of ET among minority and low-income women. Modifiable intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community-level factors are associated with ET use, and these factors vary across subgroups. Both race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status are associated with ET use in most settings. Variation in factors associated with ET use across subgroups indicates the need for more nuanced research and targeted interventions among breast cancer patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal / therapeutic use*
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Breast Neoplasms / ethnology*
  • Ethnicity*
  • Female
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Health Status Disparities*
  • Healthcare Disparities*
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence / ethnology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal