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Crook, Jennifer

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7255-6425

Mayo Clinic

University of Central Florida

Citations 23

Abstract 727: Early detection saves lives: I survived, and you can too— Any day above ground is a good day
Merriweather, AJ, Fullwood, Dottington , Crook, Jennifer , Asto-Flores, Emelina , Fathi, Parisa , Dronca, Roxana , Pressey, Shannon, Ngufor, Che

Cancer Research | April 5, 2023 | Volume: 83 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 727-727

10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-727 Get It

Abstract The day I received news of my prostate cancer diagnosis time paused for a minute. My heart was heavy, and my mind racing and my soul appeared to leave my body as the physician kept talking. I’m looking at this doctor and having internal conversations with myself about dying. My attention switched from listening to reflecting to Fred Sanford holding his heart and saying “Elizabeth, I am coming to join you”, but my wife was right next to me holding my hand. The embrace of our interlocked fingers without saying a word to one another assured both of us this too shall pass. My knowing I had support encouraged me to begin educating myself about the science of survivorship. The presence of prostate cancer resources was absent in my community. I began reading information online to grasp a better understanding of this disease. The information gained encouraged me to request a second opinion from another oncologist. I was amaze by the difference in opinion about treatment options. I felt the urge to identify and specifically speak with other Black men going through this process. Everywhere I looked for support groups felt like removing my hands from pocket and watching lent flee from my fingers. What did I do? I registered my own prostate cancer support group with the state of Florida. The group grew from a few to 20 Black men across major metropolitan cities in Florida. These group meetings extended to men leading groups in their communities. I joined the Prostate Health Education Network as the Regional Ambassador to promote prostate awareness and clinical trials. My advocacy presence in the state of Florida led to Dr. Odedina and I crossing paths to champion elimination of prostate cancer health disparities for Black men. I am a Citizen Scientist in the lab of Dr. Odedina working on the inclusive cancer care and research equity for Black men consortium. I have co-authored publications, co-presented at conferences, served on research projects, and contributed to grant funding totaling over $25 million as a citizen scientist. Currently working on a Department of Defense funded grant focusing on the point of prostate cancer diagnosis. The project has completed several events to dispel myths about participation in clinical research while discussions about early detection is vital to improve survivorship. The reward from this work is knowing I am helping create spaces for Black men never to travel this journey alone. I believe men appreciate having a patient supporter but require fellowship with men who have traveled the road to gain navigational insights on how to maneuver across this terrain. Citation Format: AJ Merriweather, Dottington Fullwood, Che Ngufor, Jennifer Crook, Emelina Asto-Flores, Parisa Fathi, Roxana Dronca, Shannon Pressey, Folakemi Odedina. Early detection saves lives: I survived, and you can too— Any day above ground is a good day [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 727.
Abstract 1975: Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT) program: The development of an inclusive clinical trials training program for community health workers (CHWs) and pharmacy technicians
Crook, Jennifer , Bolajoko, Opeyemi

Cancer Research | April 4, 2023 | Volume: 83 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 1975-1975

10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-1975 Get It

Abstract Background: In the United States, many underrepresented minorities experience health disparities in preventative options, access to care, and participation in research. There remains a critical need for robust inclusiveness and diversity to achieve comprehensive participation in research and true health equity. Community health workers (CHWs) and pharmacy technicians may be an overlooked segment in increasing the community reach necessary in alleviating health disparities. Training individuals from and trusted by the community to educate and discuss the importance of research participation may prove an important community engagement method for achieving diversity in clinical trials. Aim: This Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT) program aims to develop a training curriculum on clinical trials education and inclusivity in research for CHWs and pharmacy technicians. Methods: The CERCT program utilized qualitative methodology in expert in-depth interview sessions with clinical trials and education experts. An appropriate curriculum, content, and mode of training delivery for the program were identified. Interviews also critically reviewed the scientific information most crucial to disseminate to CHWs and Pharmacist technicians, defined the criteria for selecting the most appropriate scientific information for this level of community health partners, and characterized editorial and media management of the training modules. Results: Eleven CERCT modules were developed comprising the importance and benefits of taking part in research and biomedical trials and how to communicate it to others. Modules included 1) history of clinical trials, including past overreach and the need for biomedical research with humans; 2) human participant research studies education, including qualitative and quantitative components; 3) the difference between behavioral, biomedical, and clinical trials; 4) CHW roles in education of research participation, 5) effective communication strategies, 6) research ethics, 7) human subject protection training, 8) the role of the institutional review board, 9) eligibility to consent, 10) vulnerable populations, and 11) Good Clinical Practice training. Conclusion: Community health workers and pharmacy technicians are not a consistent avenue for disseminating clinical trial education and research inclusivity benefits. The development of a curriculum aimed at CHWs and pharmacy technicians seeks to empower more community members with the education to inform their communities and increase representation in science. By creatively engaging and educating active community partners about clinical trials, health disparities in chronic diseases such as cancer, may be alleviated. Citation Format: Jennifer M. Crook, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Folakemi Odedina. Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT) program: The development of an inclusive clinical trials training program for community health workers (CHWs) and pharmacy technicians [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 1975.
Abstract 4371: iCCaRe: Social determinants of health navigation, psycho-oncology, and emotional support for Black prostate cancer survivors: Review of current practices
Fullwood, Dottington , Merriweather, AJ, Balaji, KC, Dronca, Roxana , Colón‐Otero, Gerardo , Crook, Jennifer , Fathi, Parisa , Asto-Flores, Emelina , Pressey, Shannon, Ngufor, Che , Pereira, Deidre Byrnes

Cancer Research | April 4, 2023 | Volume: 83 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 4371-4371

10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-4371 Get It

Abstract Background: Black men continue to be disproportionately affected by prostate cancer incidence and mortality as compared to their White counterparts, despite worldwide declining prostate cancer diagnosis rates. This complex phenomenon remains poorly understood, especially at the point of a prostate cancer diagnosis. Newly diagnosed Black men report initial feelings ranging from being “shocked,” to “receiving a death sentence,” and both an ineptness of asking questions and a reliance on physicians for treatment options due to lack of knowledge. The psychological distress from prostate cancer uncertainties affects health management and treatment decisions, though it is unclear to what extent the role of social determinants of health factor in making informed healthcare decisions. Aim: In this scoping review, we examined the influence of the social determinants of health at point of prostate cancer diagnosis among Black men seeking to make an informed decision about their treatment plans. Methods: We followed the methodological framework: the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Five electronic databases, Emabase, Pubmed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for quantitative and qualitative primary studies from the period 2005 until March 2022. Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts, and full texts, against predefined criteria: empirical research, post 2000, in English-language peer-reviewed journals; participants included Black prostate cancer survivors and research explored social determinants of health at point of prostate cancer diagnosis. Studies were quality assessed for data charting. Results: The search yielded 283 studies, with 45 included studies for synthesis. Traditional social determinants of health were frequent. However, identification of themes such as social support, masculinity and stigma, fear of abandonment by medical staff, and cost of diagnostic procedures were prominent determinants. Notably, sub-themes emerged that included coping factors such as emotional distress, perceptions of normalcy, and poor prostate cancer knowledge. Conclusion: Understanding the social determinants of health impact on Black men, especially at point of prostate cancer diagnosis will allow survivors, physicians, and researchers to work at solving these health disparities. Citation Format: Dottington Fullwood, AJ Merriweather, Che Ngufor, Deidre Pereira, KC Balaji, Roxana Dronca, Gerardo Colon-Otero, Jennifer Crook, Parisa Fathi, Emelina Asto-Flores, Shannon Pressey, Folakemi Odedina. iCCaRe: Social determinants of health navigation, psycho-oncology, and emotional support for Black prostate cancer survivors: Review of current practices. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4371.
Subclinical Vitamin C Plasma Levels Associated with Increased Risk of CAD Diagnosis via Inflammation: Results from the NHANES 2003–2006 Surveys
Crook, Jennifer , Yoon, Saunjoo L. , Grundmann, Oliver , Johnson‐Mallard, Versie, Crook, Jennifer M, Yoon, Saun-Joo , Horgas, Ann L.

Nutrients | January 23, 2023 | Volume: 15 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 584

10.3390/nu15030584 Get It

Vitamin C remains an important, yet frequently unassessed, component of a healthy immune system though it may prove useful in alleviating the chronic inflammatory processes underlying chronic diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent research identified a sizeable proportion of the United States population with insufficient vitamin C plasma levels and significant associations to both acute and chronic inflammation. This cross-sectional study used the 2003–2006 NHANES surveys data to extrapolate associations between plasma vitamin C levels (deficiency, hypovitaminosis, inadequate, adequate, and saturating) and CAD through inflammation (C-reactive protein and red cell distribution width). Increased reports of CAD diagnosis were identified in participants with vitamin C deficiency (OR: 2.31, CI: 1.49–3.58) and inadequate plasma levels (OR: 1.39, CI: 1.03–1.87). No significant correlation was identified between any other plasma vitamin C quintiles and CAD. When inflammation was controlled, previous associations in the deficient level of plasma vitamin C were no longer significant in association with CAD and participants with inadequate plasma vitamin C showed a reduced association to CAD diagnoses (OR: 0.33, CI: 0.13-0.86). Most chronic inflammation and vitamin C plasma statuses do not demonstrate specific signs or symptoms until the deficient level of vitamin C and/or disease. Thus, increased surveillance of both, and healthy nutritional habits remain crucial modifiable risk factors for disease prevention.
Abstract B072: Influence of access to care on cancer diagnoses in the CaPTC Prostate Cancer Familial Cohort Study of African Ancestry in Nigeria, Cameroon, and the United States
Otero, Jessica, Jibrin, Paul, Sowumi, Anthonia, Nkegoum, Blaise , Oladoyinbo, Catherine, Salako, Abdulkadir Ayo, Omonisi, Abidemi , Bassey, Iya Eze , Adenji, Kayode, Asura, Nggada Haruna, Kukoyi, Oluwole, Fathi, Parisa , Enuka, Ruth, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Crook, Jennifer , Odedina, Folakemi T., Iweala, Emeka Eze Joshua , Popoola, Ademola , Faruk, Mohammed , Fatiregun, Omolara , Okoye, Ifeoma Joy , Kaninjing, Ernest , Enuka, Ruth, Toye, Oluwaseyi

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: B072-B072

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-b072 Get It

Abstract BACKGROUND Black populations are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer globally. The leading countries in prostate cancer mortality are found in Africa and the Caribbean. This data is being presented as part of the Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC) Prostate Cancer Familial Cohort Study of African Ancestry study with the purpose of identifying the various factors that influence prostate cancer risk factors. Access to care, a known cancer risk factor, not only affects a person’s ability to receive treatment but to receive accurate health information, preventative care, diagnoses, and more. Researching exactly how different social determinants, such as this one, affect cancer risk factors for specific populations is imperative to reducing their cancer burden. METHODS: This ten-year prospective study started in 2017 and has been conducted in Nigeria, Cameroon, and the United States. Participants have been recruited in clinics and different community settings. Upon consent, participants were asked to complete a validated survey with a unique identifier on epidemiological, behavioral, clinical, and anthropometric variables. They were then asked to provide a saliva sample that was also given a unique identifier. Associations of characteristics from the survey were evaluated using logistic regression models. Others were tested for statistical significance using a Chi-Squared test. RESULTS: A total of 803 responses are included in this dataset. Of these participants, 9.6% were from Cameroon, 82.6% from Nigeria, and 7.3% from the United States. More than half of the participants (54.9%) shared they did not have healthcare coverage. In addition, a chi-squared test showed 10.2% in the United States, 13.9% in Nigeria and 35.1% in Cameroon were unable to see a physician due to cost with a p-value of less than .001 indicating statistical significance. While participants in the United States did not report any cancer diagnoses, logistical regression found a significant inverse relationship between health literacy and increased risk of a cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSION Research shows a relationship between health access factors and cancer risk factors, but little research is done for specific populations. Further research should be done to measure the exact impact access to care has on cancer diagnoses for specific communities. It is very important that health equity researchers assess exactly how these factors affect the specific populations they work with to tailor evidence-based interventions to their needs. Citation Format: Jessica Otero, Emeka Iweala, Ademola Popoola, Paul Jibrin, Mohammed Faruk, Anthonia Sowumi, Omolara Fatiregun, Nkegoum Blaise, Catherine Oladoyinbo, Ifeoma Okoye, Abdulkadir Ayo Salako, Abidemi Omonisi, Iya Eze Bassey, Kayode Adenji, Nggada Haruna Asura, Ernest Kaninjing, Oluwole Kukoyi, Parisa Fathi, Ruth Enuka, Oluwaseyi Toye, Jennifer Crook, Folakemi Odedina. Influence of access to care on cancer diagnoses in the CaPTC Prostate Cancer Familial Cohort Study of African Ancestry in Nigeria, Cameroon, and the United States [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 B072.
Abstract B073: Quality of life indicators including mental health factors in CaPTC prostate cancer familial cohort study of men of African Ancestry in Nigeria, Cameroon, and United States
Otero, Jessica, Jibrin, Paul, Sowumi, Anthonia, Nkegoum, Blaise , Oladoyinbo, Catherine, Salako, Abdulkadir Ayo, Omonisi, Abidemi , Bassey, Iya Eze , Adenji, Kayode, Asura, Nggada Haruna, Kukoyi, Oluwole, Fathi, Parisa , Enuka, Ruth, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Crook, Jennifer , Odedina, Folakemi T., Iweala, Emeka Eze Joshua , Popoola, Ademola , Faruk, Mohammed , Fatiregun, Omolara , Okoye, Ifeoma Joy , Kaninjing, Ernest , Enuka, Ruth, Toye, Oluwaseyi

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: B073-B073

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-b073 Get It

Abstract INTRODUCTION The Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC) has the goal of better understanding the burden of prostate cancer among Black men of West African descent. While prostate cancer disproportionately affects Blacks around the world, little research is done to understand what mental health and social support play a role in prostate cancer risk factors. The purpose of this 10-year longitudinal study is to establish a cohort of U.S.-born Black men, West African-born Black men who reside in the U.S, and West African Black men in Africa who would be prospectively and longitudinally followed to better understand the cause of prostate cancer and how different factors might influence it. METHODS Study staff partnered with community-based organizations, events, and stakeholders to engage with the priority population. Snowball sampling was also used for recruitment. All participants were made aware of the longitudinal nature of the study and that they would be contacted every two years for follow-up. Informed consent was done in community settings electronically and on paper. Once consent was received, participants completed the survey with a unique identifier and filled out a Cohort Contact sheet. They were given the option to complete this on their own or with the help of the study staff. Study Staff would then measure participants’ weight, height, and waistline, to be recorded on the survey form. After this, participant saliva was collected and tracked with the unique identifier. All collected data was stored on RedCap and a Chi-squared test was utilized to identify statistical significance. RESULTS 803 participants are included in this data with 77 in Cameroon, 663 in Nigeria, and 59 in the United States. When asked about emotional support, 13.6% (US) 11.8% (Nigeria), and 14.3% (Cameroon) indicated never or rarely having emotional support. 5.8% of those in the United States, 5.6% of those in Nigeria, and 7.8% of those in Cameroon felt dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their lives. The p-value for both was found to be <0.001, therefore, suggesting statistical significance. On the other hand, participants described having an average of 6.53 (US), 9.4 (Nigeria), and 8.26% (Cameroon) days where their mental health was not good. However, this was statistically insignificant with a p-value of .95. CONCLUSION Mental health issues have been on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic. While many people of color have stigmatized needing mental health help, it is important to find ways to overcome this barrier in assessing mental health and social support needs. Future research should continue to ask mental health and social support questions in order to assess their role in prostate cancer risk factors. Citation Format: Jessica Otero, Emeka Iweala, Ademola Popoola, Paul Jibrin, Mohammed Faruk, Anthonia Sowumi, Omolara Fatiregun, Nkegoum Blaise, Catherine Oladoyinbo, Ifeoma Okoye, Abdulkadir Ayo Salako, Abidemi Omonisi, Iya Eze Bassey, Kayode Adenji, Nggada Haruna Asura, Ernest Kaninjing, Oluwole Kukoyi, Parisa Fathi, Ruth Enuka, Oluwaseyi Toye, Jennifer Crook, Folakemi Odedina. Quality of life indicators including mental health factors in CaPTC prostate cancer familial cohort study of men of African Ancestry in Nigeria, Cameroon, and United States [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 B073.
Abstract C031: Impact of pesticide exposure in West African Black men within the United States, Cameroon, and Nigeria
Asto-Flores, Emelina , Crook, Jennifer , Fathi, Parisa

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: C031-C031

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-c031 Get It

Abstract Background: Prostate cancer (CaP) significantly affects black men causing higher mortality rates especially within African and Caribbean countries. The Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC) is a 10 year longitudinal study aimed at studying environmental, epidemiological and prostate cancer associated risk factors within black men of West African descent living in the United States (US), Cameroon, and Nigeria. Methods: Men ages 35- 70 years old, who identified as a US Black male or West African Black male immigrant in the US, were recruited from community-based organizations. Community- based organizations include local churches, health fairs and social organizations. Anthropometric, environmental, and epidemiological variables measures were collected via survey questions. Saliva samples were collected using Salimetrics. Mean and range from the survey questions were categorized and a logistical regression model was used to determine associations between variables. Results: Logistical analysis output for analysis of pesticide exposure and cancer diagnosis within the three countries, found participants in Nigeria who were exposed to pesticide use, to be a significant predictor of cancer diagnosis (p 0.013). The age of exposure was another variable analyzed to see whether there was a correlation between age of exposure in pesticide use and cancer diagnosis. No significant predictors were determined yet a reasoning to why a significance is not yet found could be due to many participants needing a closer examination into the consequences of early exposure to known carcinogens. Conclusion: Significant data was found between pesticide exposure and cancer diagnosis between the US, Cameroon, and Nigeria in West African Black men. Regarding age of pesticide exposure and the relation between cancer diagnosis, more data needs to be collected regarding these variables. Significance in determining pesticide use as a predictor for cancer diagnosis in black males, can lead to increased efforts in pesticide exposure education in addition to possible government reformation on laws regarding pesticide use. Citation Format: Emelina Asto-Flores, Jennifer Crook, Parisa Fathi, Folakemi Odedina. Impact of pesticide exposure in West African Black men within the United States, Cameroon, and Nigeria [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 C031.
Abstract C004: Importance of statistical considerations in multi-center, transatlantic cancer disparity studies: Lessons learned from the CaPTC prostate cancer familial cohort study
Peng, Zhongwei , Jibrin, Paul, Sowumi, Anthonia, Nkegoum, Blaise , Oladoyinbo, Catherine, Salako, Abdulkadir Ayo, Omonisi, Abidemi , Bassey, Iya Eze , Adeniji, Kayode , Asura, Nggada Haruna, Kukoyi, Oluwole, Fathi, Parisa , Enuka, Ruth, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Crook, Jennifer , Investigators, CaPTC, Odedina, Folakemi, Lee, Daniel , Heckman, Michael G. , Iweala, Emeka Eze Joshua , Popoola, Ademola , Faruk, Mohammed , Fatiregun, Omolara , Okoye, Ifeoma Joy , Kaninjing, Ernest , Toye, Oluwaseyi, Investigators, CaPTC, Odedina, Folakemi

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: C004-C004

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-c004 Get It

Abstract Background: The CaPTC prostate cancer (CaP) Familial Cohort study (CaPFCS) was launched in 2017 to explore the CaP risk factors of African Black men (ABM). The study design is a prospective study that observes and follows healthy ABM and ABM diagnosed with CaP. Aim: The specific aim is to provide recommendations on statistical considerations for cohort studies focused on cancer disparities, based on lessons learned from the CaPTC CaPFCS. Methodology: Study participants were ABM in Cameroon, Nigeria, and the US. Using validated measures, data were collected mostly by self-administered or research assistant administered survey using paper survey (especially in Cameroon and Nigeria) with the responses transferred to REDCap by research coordinators. The statistical analysis for the CaPTC CaPFCS focused on the baseline epidemiological, behavioral, clinical and anthropometric measures of Black men. A total of 819 participants were included in the analyses. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics (sample median, range, frequency and percentages) and unadjusted logistic regression models. Results: Data collection for the CaPTC CaPFCS were by multiple investigators/research coordinators at multiple sites in Cameroon, Nigeria, and the US. In preparation for the data analyses, we noted data entry errors and/or misinterpretation of data entry, which required extensive cleaning of the database prior to the analyses. The biostatisticians spent significant effort cleaning and ensuring data validity prior to the analyses. Confounding variables is another statistical consideration for cohort studies, such as the CaPTC CaPFCS. There was variability observed across age, education levels, employment status, household income and CaP diagnosis based on country of residence. CaP diagnosis was not reported by any of the ABM in the US, which may be due to the fact that they were all recruited within the community and no recruitment took place in the clinic. Finally, the CaPTC CaPFCS has several variables. Performing a lot of statistical tests may result in false-positive findings at P<0.05. Conclusion: The advantage of the CaPFCS is that it allows the CaPTC investigators to study epidemiological, behavioral, clinical and anthropometric variables associated with CaP over time. Being a longitudinal cohort study, investigators can track the changes in exposure and outcomes over time.However, statistical considerations need to be at the fore-front of multi-center, transatlantic cancer disparity studies such as the CaPTC CaPFCS, from data collection to data entry. The use of web-based survey with the ability to enter data directly into REDCaP will significantly reduce (if not totally eliminate) the need for database cleaning. There are multiple strategies that can be used to reduce confounder effect, including statistical adjustment and multivariate analysis to adjust for the confounders. The use of propensity score methods have especially been found to be effective in controlling baseline confounding factors. Citation Format: Daniel Lee, Michael Heckman, Zhongwei Peng, Emeka Iweala, Ademola Popoola, Paul Jibrin, Mohammed Faruk, Anthonia Sowumi, Omolara Fatiregun, Nkegoum Blaise, Catherine Oladoyinbo, Ifeoma Okoye, Abdulkadir Ayo Salako, Abidemi Omonisi, Iya Eze Bassey, Kayode Adeniji, Nggada Haruna Asura, Ernest Kaninjing, Oluwole Kukoyi, Fathi Parisa, Ruth Enuka, Oluwaseyi Toye, Jennifer Crook, CaPTC Investigators, Folakemi Odedina. Importance of statistical considerations in multi-center, transatlantic cancer disparity studies: Lessons learned from the CaPTC prostate cancer familial cohort study [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 C004.
Abstract A060: Expanding current decentralized research model concepts for targeted community health interventions
Crook, Jennifer , Salinas, Manisha , Fathi, Parisa , Machuca, Jessica Otero , Flores, Emelina Asto, Albertie, Monica, Stephenson, Noreen A., Reeves, Chelsea, Odedina, Folakemi T.

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: A060-A060

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-a060 Get It

Abstract Background: Inclusion of historically underrepresented populations in research has been a problem existing for many years. The recent Covid pandemic has exposed the significant cost of gaps in access to care. There remains a need to reevaluate current research paradigm frameworks to consider tailored approaches that accommodate any location that would ease participant burden and maintain retention. Current decentralized research models include home and mobile options. However, barriers exist, and certain demographics remain elusive to recruitment into research studies. Aim: In this paper, we aim to identify a theoretical framework that will allow for more inclusivity in research. Methodology: Current utilized community-based decentralized research models are compared, barriers in recruitment and retention of interested participants are examined, and a framework individualized to study participants is offered. Results: The proposed framework expands upon the complex adaptive systems theory to incorporate community-based research which considers dividing studies into individual study visit components that may differ in location. It allows for ease of research participant access to care and mutual collaboration among providers and institutions. This new theoretical model expansion outlines a novel approach to community-based participatory research for increased representation and inclusion. Conclusion: Investigators should carefully consider creative and effective solutions to overcome barriers to research participation access, increase diversity and representation, and provide tailored public health interventions. Minimally risk study intervention visits may occur in multiple community-driven locations such as: community resource centers, local physician offices, mobile research units, remote electronic visits, home settings, and a combination of the above (hybrid model). Breaking studies into individual study visit components expands the reach of science into the communities that have long been difficult to reach. Citation Format: Jennifer M. Crook, Manisha Salinas, Parisa Fathi, Jessica Otero Machuca, Emelina Asto Flores, Monica Albertie, Noreen Stephenson, Chelsea Reeves, Folakemi Odedina. Expanding current decentralized research model concepts for targeted community health interventions [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 A060.
Abstract A042: Addressing prostate cancer disparities through the Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) for Black men consortium
Odedina, Folakemi T., Dronca, Roxana , Merriweather, Arnold, Crook, Jennifer , Salinas, Manisha , Fathi, Parisa , Rashad, Sha’Reff, Erefah, Ebenezer, Yahaya, Ayinde, Ashing, Kimlin , Kaninjing, Ernest , Rotimi, Solomon O. , Ngufor, Che , McCall, John

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | January 9, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1_Supplement | Pages: A042-A042

10.1158/1538-7755.disp22-a042 Get It

Abstract Background: The prostate cancer (CaP) disparities experienced by Black men (BM) in the US is a microcosm of the burden of CaP seen in BM globally. The complexity of CaP disparities and the need for a unique approach to better understand and address a complex chronic disease, such as CaP, underscores the need for consortium research that is multilevel, collaborative, translational, and global. In response to this need, we brought together CaP survivors, advocates, scientists and clinicians to form the inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) for Black Men Consortium. Aim: Our overall goal is to optimize CaP diagnosis experiences, treatment and survivorship based on the Science of Survivorship (S.O.S). Our primary aim was to develop a consortium co-led by CaP scientists and survivors with multiple S.O.S research projects supported by research cores/services across multiple institutions. Methodology: The consortium was developed to comprise multiple individuals with complementary expertise and resources working collaboratively to achieve the common purpose of eliminating CaP disparities globally. Building on the expertise, resources, and relationships of collaborating CaP investigators, survivors and advocates, the iCCaRE Consortium was proposed to “advance health equity and reduce disparities in CaP” by studying the within-group differences among ethnically diverse BM and comparing US-born BM to their ancestral populations, including West African immigrant men in the US and indigenous West African men. Results: Through the Department of Defense Health Equity Research and Outcomes Improvement Consortium (HEROIC) Award, the iCCaRE Consortium was launched in 2022. There are five pilot projects (PPs), each co-led by a scientist PI and community PI: PP1 will plan and develop a Virtual Robot Assistant (ViRA) that will provide SDOH navigation services, psycho-oncology support and emotional support for BM newly diagnosed with CaP. PP2 will develop and analyze the impact of a patient-centered home cancer care system on health-related Quality of Life (HRQOL), access to healthcare, and PROs. PP3 will plan and develop a ViRA to improve HRQOL in Black CaP survivors. PP4 will employ the social determinants of migrant health framework to understand and address the needs of sub-Saharan African immigrant CaP survivors. PP5 will explore how biological factors induced by cancer cells contribute to poor mental health of CaP survivors. The PPs are supported by an Administrative Core, Translational Research & Clinical Intervention Service, Data Management and Analytics Services, Partnership Engagement Services, Pathology Resource & Biospecimen Core, Methodology and Measures Services and Digital Health & Human Services. Conclusion: The iCCaRE Consortium will “improve HRQOL to enhance outcomes and overall health and wellness for those impacted by CaP” by developing and implementing Artificial Intelligence interventions that address social determinants of health, psycho-oncology support and emotional support for newly diagnosed CaP patients. Citation Format: Folakemi Odedina, Roxana Dronca, Kimlin Ashing, Ernest Kaninjing, Solomon Rotimi, Che Ngufor, Arnold Merriweather, Jennifer Crook, Manisha Salinas, Fathi Parisa, Sha’Reff Rashad, John McCall, Ebenezer Erefah, Ayinde Yahaya. Addressing prostate cancer disparities through the Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) for Black men consortium [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 A042.