A recent study published in Inside Precision Medicine reveals significant disparities in the care of pancreatic cancer patients based on race and socioeconomic status. The research, led by Dr. Diamantis Tsilimigras from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, analyzed data from 14,147 patients diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) between 2005 and 2019. The findings highlight that patients from underserved racial or ethnic groups and those with higher social vulnerability are less likely to receive guideline-concordant care.
The study found that patients with a higher Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) were 30% less likely to receive at least one of the three quality indicators: guideline-concordant systemic therapy, palliative care, or a cancer-specific survival of more than 12 months. Additionally, individuals from underserved racial or ethnic groups were 25% less likely to experience these quality indicators, regardless of their income level. These disparities underscore the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to cancer care.
Dr. Timothy M. Pawlik, a senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of adhering to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines to improve outcomes for all patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. The study also noted improvements in quality scores and longevity over the study period, indicating progress but highlighting persistent gaps.
Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive policy changes, including expanding Medicaid or Medicare coverage for palliative care and addressing social determinants of health. By focusing on these areas, healthcare providers can work towards reducing inequities and improving survival rates for all pancreatic cancer patients.
See: “Pancreatic Cancer Care Varies with Race and Socioeconomic Status” (April 9, 2025)