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Odedina, Folakemi T.

Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic Hospital

Citations 66

Abstract 819: Feasibility of patient-centered home care (PCHC) to reduce disparities in high-risk black men with advanced prostate cancer
Dronca, Roxana , Odedina, Folakemi T., Ngufor, Che , Ashing, Kimlin , Kaninjing, Ernest , Rotimi, Solomon O.

Cancer Research | March 22, 2024 | Volume: 84 | Issue: 6_Supplement | Pages: 819-819

10.1158/1538-7445.am2024-819 Get It

Abstract The objective of our study is to evaluate the feasibility, acceptance, and impact of patient-centered home care (PCHC) on patient reported outcomes (PROs) and health-related quality of life (HQoL) of black men with advanced prostate cancer (CaP). Meeting patients where they are and offering treatment in or closer to their homes reduce psychological distress and increase treatment compliance, especially for disadvantaged patients in rural areas, those on low incomes, with poor access to transport, elderly and people with disabilities. In 2023, Mayo Clinic has developed the Cancer Care Beyond Walls (CCBW) program, a cancer care delivery model that integrates virtual with in facility treatment and provides a package of care to support administration of cancer-directed therapy (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy) and/or supportive care in the patients’ homes. Our study will assess if patients and families are comfortable with cancer therapy at home, what factors influences their decision, and use this data to inform our understanding of the proportion of the black men with advanced CaP who would be willing to receive and would benefit from this level of care at home. Patients with advanced CaP from our practice requiring active anti-cancer therapy are administered a brief questionnaire regarding preference for location of therapy at the infusion center or in the home, with perceived difficulties and advantages of each approach. A focus group session with prostate cancer survivor advocates is also conducted to capture patients’ thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and questions towards cancer treatments being administered at home versus a hospital setting. In addition, we are conducting an observational study of 20 patients with advanced prostate cancer receiving supportive care/symptom management and/or anti-cancer therapy in the home as part of the Mayo Clinic CCBW Program to assess the safety of cancer directed therapy when administered at home by a home health provider with remote patient monitoring and command center support, and establish the impact of home cancer treatment administration on patient-reported function and global health/quality of life, patient-reported symptoms, clinical outcomes, and cost of care. Successful completion of the project will deliver data on patient understanding and acceptability of cancer care at home, strategies for overcoming barriers to care for underserved communities, and the foundation from which we discover, translate and apply new knowledge in administering personalized care to vulnerable populations. Citation Format: Roxana S. Dronca, Folakemi Odedina, Che Ngufor, Kimlin Ashing, Ernest Kaninjing, Solomon Rotimi. Feasibility of patient-centered home care (PCHC) to reduce disparities in high-risk black men with advanced prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 819.
Abstract 2230: Connecting Black men to point of prostate cancer diagnosis (PPCD) support using precision intervention based on Virtual Reality Assistant (ViRA)
Odedina, Folakemi T., Merriweather, Arnold, Dronca, Roxana , Gordon, Vinessa, Ngufor, Che , Pereira, Deidre Byrnes , Kaninjing, Ernest , Ashing, Kimlin , Rotimi, Solomon O.

Cancer Research | March 22, 2024 | Volume: 84 | Issue: 6_Supplement | Pages: 2230-2230

10.1158/1538-7445.am2024-2230 Get It

Abstract Background: The point of prostate cancer (CaP) diagnosis (PPCD) instantly leads to a life changing experience for Black men, with diverse emotional reactions that includes fear, denial, overwhelmingness, cancer fatalism etc. Black men diagnosed with CaP expressed several needs at the PPCD, including time to reflect on the diagnosis, being comfortable, emotional support, psycho-oncology support and social determinants of health (SDOH) navigation. Given that Black men are diverse in terms of their needs at the PPCD, precision intervention is needed to support them. Aim: The aim was to develop, implement, and establish the acceptance and usability of a Virtual Reality Assistant (ViRA) that will provide precision intervention tailored to the needs of Black men at the PPCD. This study is one of the five iCCaRE for Black Men projects focused on survivorship care. Methodology: The development of the ViRA was guided by CaP survivors through qualitative study. Reflective, analytic, and interpretive memos were used to generate action plans for the development of the ViRA. Based on a comprehensive PPCD ViRA intervention guide created by the team, the ViRA prototype was developed with mobile immersive technologies that integrated SDOH navigation, standard CaP psycho-oncology support and emotional support. The goal was to have the intervention personalized to everyone based on participant-provided information. Alpha testing of the ViRA is ongoing and will be completed on November 20, 2023. Participants are three prostate cancer survivors and three clinicians. The assessments will confirm the accuracy of the ViRA predictions and the functionality of the ViRA. Results: We developed the ViRA SDOH screening and navigation tool to identify participants’ needs and appropriately connect them with relevant support services and resources in their communities. The emotional support intervention was based on four CaP survivors as virtual reality avatars, providing empathetic rapport through self-disclosure and sharing of survivorship stories in different settings (home, clinic, barbershop etc). The psycho-oncology support intervention was developed with the guidance of a psycho-oncologist, with her avatar providing psychoeducation about the PPCD experience, reify and concretize the PPCD experience, and foster hope using the basic tenets of Problem-Solving Therapy. The results of the alpha testing and the modified ViRA will be presented during the conference. Conclusion: Meeting the needs of Black men at the PPCD requires a personalized and decentralized approach, which would allow Black men to access support anywhere. The presentation will unveil the iCCaRE ViRA, a smart and connected personalized AR-enabled intervention that will deliver SDOH navigation, CaP psycho-oncology support and emotional support tailored to the needs of Black men. Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Che Ngufor, Arnold Merriweather, Deidre Pereira, Roxana Dronca, Ernest Kaninjing, Kimlin Ashing, Solomon Rotimi, Vinessa Gordon, iCCaRE for Black Men Consortium. Connecting Black men to point of prostate cancer diagnosis (PPCD) support using precision intervention based on Virtual Reality Assistant (ViRA) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2230.
Abstract B055: Association between dietary patterns and occurrence of prostate cancer among Nigerian men: The CaPTC Familial Cohort Study
Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Oladoyinbo, Catherine, Lee, Daniel J. , Toye, Oluwaseyi, Fathi, Parisa , Bassey, Iya Eze , Jibrin, Paul, Ogo, Chidebere, Omonisi, Abidemi , Adeniji, Adebanji, Showunmi, Anthonia, Salako, Ayo, Nggada, Haruna Asura , Kaninjing, Ernie, Odedina, Folakemi T., Toye, Oluwaseyi, Turesky, Robert J. , Popoola, Ademola , Rotimi, Solomon O. , Fatiregun, Omolara , Faruk, Mohammed , Okoye, Ifeoma Joy

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: B055-B055

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-b055 Get It

Abstract Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) in men is, to date, the number one cause of death from cancer worldwide. PCa has been associated with a large number of lifestyle factors, including unhealthy dietary habits. In particular, diet and nutrition have been shown to play pivotal roles in PCa, and the habitual consumption of certain specific foods like meat cooked at very high temperatures has been implicated. However, this has not been documented among Black men. The aim of this study was to determine the association between dietary patterns and their association with the occurrence of prostate cancer. Method: This is a longitudinal multisite Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC) familial cohort phase 2 study. Participants were Nigerian Black men between 35 and 70 years old who were willing to participate in the study over a 10-year period. For the food variety score, a score of 1 was given for each food item eaten weekly, and the aggregate food variety score was totaled and categorized as ≥54% very good, 45%–53% was good, 36%–44% fair, 18%–35% poor and <18% was very poor. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency analyses. Chi-square analysis was used to evaluate dichotomous variables to compare groups based on demographic factors and the occurrence of PCa. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the specific predictors of the diagnosis of PCa with potential adjustment for the other demographic variables. P-values < 0.05 was set as significant. Results: A total of 780 participants were recruited, with 72.6% reporting no history of cancer. The median age was 47.00 (range: 21-97),16.5% have been diagnosed with Pca, and 1.5% were diagnosed with other Cancers. Age of cancer diagnosis showed that 21% were diagnosed at about 50 years. Participants’ fruit consumption showed that 28.4%, 29%, 39.5%, 23%, 31%, 28.7%, and 39.2, ate apples, mango, citrus, papaya, green banana, tomatoes, and watermelon, weekly, respectively. Fish was the most consumed protein source of animal origin irrespective of the cooking methods categories, such as boiling, frying, grilling, and smoking. The median food variety score was 20 (0-67), with 8.5%, 3.8%,49.3%, and 26.8% classified as good, very good, poor, and very poor, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the category of food variety score (P=0.0009), age (P<0.0001), and grilled fish consumption (P=0.0333) were found to be associated with Pca occurrence. Conclusions: The study showed that food variety score, age, and fish consumption were the correlates of prostate cancer occurrence in the population studied. Citation Format: Opeyemi O. Bolajoko, Catherine A. Oladoyinbo, Daniel Lee, Oluwaseyi Toye, Parisa Fathi, Robert Turesky, Ademola Popoola, Iya Bassey, Solomon Rotimi, Paul Jibrin, Chidebere Ogo, Abidemi Omonisi, Adebanji Adeniji, Anthonia Showunmi, Omolara Fatiregun, Ayo Salako, Haruna Nggada, Faruk Mohammed, Ifeoma Okoye, Ernie Kaninjing, Folakemi Odedina. Association between dietary patterns and occurrence of prostate cancer among Nigerian men: The CaPTC Familial Cohort Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B055.
Abstract B013: Unsilenced strength: Survivorship perspectives from Black prostate cancer survivors
Fullwood, Dottington , Waldon, Charles, Young, Mary Ellen , Pressey, Shannon, Odedina, Folakemi T., Snipe, Brandon , Villasenor, Isela, Waldon, Charles F., Thomas, Carol

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: B013-B013

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-b013 Get It

Abstract Introduction: The relentless surge of prostate cancer rates is rapidly alarming public health officials, leaving a trail of shattered hopes among Black men in the United States. This toll reduces mortality for this population, the urgent need for effective solutions becomes more apparent. Survivorship care plans (SCPs) emerge as a beacon of hope, holding the potential to transform the provision of care. Within this tool lies the encapsulation of vital cancer-related information, passed from the oncology team to the resilient survivor and their primary care physician. However, despite the unwavering support of national governing bodies, a disheartening reality persists for Black male survivors, who never access these life-saving plans. The study purpose was to identify receipt of SCPs and the preferred communication delivery of health information among Black prostate cancer survivors. Methods: Utilizing a grounded theory approach, our study delved into the experiences of a convenience sample of seven Black male prostate cancer survivors. In-person and telephone-based semi-structured interviews we sought to unravel unique narratives. The research inquiries used open-ended questions (1) knowledge, awareness, and understanding of SCPs; (2) interactions with medical professionals; and (3) preferred methods of communication of healthcare information. Employing a line-by-line descriptive force coding method, we extracted pertinent statements by open and axial coding to generate specific codes to encapsulate information collected from an underserved population. Results: Thorough analysis revealed several distinct themes pertaining to survivorship care plans and preferred communication styles. The relevant findings were a lack of SCPs knowledge, an absence of post-treatment care, the profound influence of faith and family support, and the value of group settings. Despite receiving education on treatment, survivors expressed a sense of being left adrift, as if their medical professional team had failed to provide them with a clear roadmap for their survivorship journey. In the absence of proper guidance, survivors resorted to considering pre-treatment risk assessments as a makeshift substitute for a comprehensive survivorship care plan. Conclusion: The impact of our study’s findings resonates deeply, revealing a startling reality: Black male survivors in our sample possessed a distressing lack of knowledge about the post-treatment phase of survivorship. Instead, they relied on the support of their spouses or fellow survivors with whom they connected during treatment sessions. The removal of government mandates aimed at promoting SCPs likely contributes toward a disheartening knowledge disparities among many Black men, leaving them without clear guidance regarding the crucial phase of aftercare. Armed with this data, we have the opportunity to drive change and enhance the development of culturally tailored, interactive care plans specifically designed to support Black male survivors after they conquer prostate cancer treatment. Citation Format: Dottington Fullwood, Charles Waldon, Carol Thomas, Mary Ellen Young, Shannon Pressey, Folakemi T. Odedina, Brandon Snipe, Isela Villasenor. Unsilenced strength: Survivorship perspectives from Black prostate cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B013.
Abstract A117: Operational strategies for achieving NCI comprehensive cancer center community outreach and engagement objectives: Impact and logic models
Salinas, Manisha , Albertie, Monica, Murrell, Doug, Odedina, Folakemi T.

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A117-A117

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a117 Get It

Abstract Background: The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Cancer Center Support Grants (CCSGs) encourages Cancer Centers to address health disparities and reduce the cancer burden in their Catchment Area (CA) through an organized Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) structure. COE activities focus on engaging communities to address cancer needs through bidirectional partnership, facilitation of research that meets community needs, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Methods: Following a 2018 “satisfactory to good” rating for COE, the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center (MCCCCC) developed a transition team to specifically address the critique and create a transformative plan for engaging communities to address cancer burden in the CA. An impact model was developed to illustrate the components of the CCSG and connect those components to short- and long-term COE outcomes. A logic model was developed to track and monitor activities for continuous process improvement for all COE activities. Results: The impact and logic model serve as a roadmap to monitor progress towards short- and long-term COE goals of the MCCCC. The COE operational strategies draw upon bidirectional partnership, evidence-based practices, and research facilitation to respond to the CCSG critique. Conclusion: These strategies demonstrate successful practices in addressing cancer burden, promoting health equity and eliminating cancer disparities in the MCCCC CA. Citation Format: Manisha Salinas, Monica Albertie, Doug Murrell, Folakemi Odedina. Operational strategies for achieving NCI comprehensive cancer center community outreach and engagement objectives: Impact and logic models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A117.
Abstract A086: Increasing the arm of research by finding and training key community stakeholders: The Mayo Clinic "Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT)" curriculum phase 2
Crook, Jennifer , Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Greguson, Barbara, Boe, Gwen, Young, Karen , Croghan, Katrina, Odedina, Folakemi T., Young, Karen

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A086-A086

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a086 Get It

Abstract Background: Equitable representation in research remains a critical issue. Barriers to diversity in research have been identified across personal, provider, and health systems levels. To achieve true health equity, investigators must creatively collaborate with community stakeholders for increased education and partnership. The Mayo Clinic Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT) curriculum was developed in 2022 to improve the inclusivity and diversity of frontline community-based health workers in research, including community health workers (CHWs), pharmacy technicians, health advocates, and citizen scientists. Aim: The CERCT curriculum was designed to empower and improve the skills necessary for engaging members of the communities about research and clinical trial (CT) participation. Aims for this project include beta pilot training of key community stakeholders in underserved minoritized communities, evaluating the efficacy of CERCT modules through increased recruitment into the Mayo Clinic Florida Community Research Registry; and increased diverse representation in research studies. Methods: This project will train community health advocate cohorts in educating the community on the importance and benefits of participating in research and CT and how to effectively communicate that information within their circles of influence both at work and where they live. Five community health advocate cohorts in Florida counties will be trained through 2-hour online modules, taken at their leisure. Results: Eight online module units will be utilized for beta training of CHWs, pharmacy technicians, health advocates and citizen scientists. Modules include explaining importance of biomedical research and CT; recognizing the different types of research and human participation studies; describing the importance/need of increased representation and inclusion; identifying how the safety, welfare, and well-being of participants are protected at every step in the research process; understanding the role of healthcare providers in research participation; learning communication strategies and tools to raise awareness of CT; examining at an in-depth level the informed consent process and conversation with potential participants; and learning to build trust and address common patient concerns and questions. Efficacy will be assessed via community enrollment in the Mayo Clinic Community Research Registry. Conclusion: Currently, community health workers and pharmacy technicians are an underexplored avenue for disseminating CT education and research inclusivity. The development and beta testing of a curricula specifically created for key community stakeholders who may or may not work in the healthcare or research fields seeks to empower those members with the education to inform their communities and increase representation in science. Designed for increasing education, dispelling common misperceptions, and an easy format, these modules are expected to increase the reach of research into historically underrepresented communities. Citation Format: Jennifer M. Crook, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Barbara Greguson, Gwen Boe, Karen Young, Katrina Croghan, Folakemi Odedina. Increasing the arm of research by finding and training key community stakeholders: The Mayo Clinic "Community Engagement in Research and Clinical Trial (CERCT)" curriculum phase 2 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A086.
Abstract A062: Intersecting acculturation and decision making about cancer screening among sub-Saharan African immigrant men: A qualitative study
Kokayi, Assata , Asiedu, Gladys B. , Voorhis, Kaitlin Van, Young, Mary Ellen , Odedina, Folakemi T., Kaninjing, Ernie, Voorhis, Kaitlin Van, Walker, Rae, Ogunsanya, Motolani E.

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A062-A062

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a062 Get It

Abstract Background: Sub-Saharan African immigrant (SSAI) men constitute one of the fastest-growing immigrant populations in the United States and a large heterogeneous group in cancer survivorship. Yet research has ignored decision making about health and behavioral risk factors among SSAI communities. Intersecting acculturation and culture-specific perceptions about cancer screening within decision-making frameworks may be an essential step towards developing meaningful interventions for immigrant men’s healthcare. Objectives: This study aimed to gain insight into cancer-related beliefs and health decision-making practices among sub-Saharan African immigrant men. Methods: A qualitative design intersecting grounded theory analysis was employed using 16 semi-structured, in-depth individual interviews with SSAI men residing in Georgia and Florida. Participants were recruited from health fairs, community events, and by snowball effect. The average age of participants was 51 years with country of birth including Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. An interview guide was prepared with emphasis on SSAI’s perspectives on lifestyle factors for cancer and decision making about cancer screening. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using open, inductive, and axial coding via NVivo 12 qualitative data analysis software. Results: Findings identified key cultural factors impacting barriers to and facilitators of SSAI men’s decision-making processes and health-seeking behaviors. Most participants making positive decisions reflected on intercultural health practices made in collaboration with clinicians, significant others and community partnerships. Most participants with negative decisions tended to consider socio-cultural barriers and shortcomings in US health-care system. Participants’ preventative care decisions about cancer screening differed. Conclusions: This qualitative study illuminated key cultural factors among SSAI men that influenced their decision making about cancer screening and health-seeking behaviors. Future research should investigate longitudinal and quantitative studies to test decision-making outcomes. Funding Source: This study is funded by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (1R15MD017012-01A1). Keywords: Cancer health disparities, Decision-making, Immigrant men, Intersectionality, Qualitative study Citation Format: Assata Kokayi, Gladys Asiedu, Kaitlin Van Voorhis, Rae Walker, M.E. Young, Folakemi Odedina, Motolani Ogunsanya, Ernie Kaninjing. Intersecting acculturation and decision making about cancer screening among sub-Saharan African immigrant men: A qualitative study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A062.
Abstract A052: Perspectives of African immigrants on community health needs and clinical trials
Turner, Jocelyn C., Husband, Laureen, Otero, Jessica, Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Fathi, Parisa , Crook, Jennifer , Odedina, Folakemi T., Turner, Jocelyn

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A052-A052

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a052 Get It

Abstract INTRODUCTION In the past decade, Jacksonville, Florida has seen an increase in African immigrants. However, little is known about their health needs and perspectives related to community health and clinical trials. The Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center (MCCCC) Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) Office and Programs partnered with multiple community-based organizations as part of the FL Community Engagement Alliance Against COVID-19 to hold a series of focus groups with African immigrants to better understand their perspectives surroudning these determinants. METHODS This was a qualitative study with African immigrants residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Data was collected by community partner, Jocelyn Turner Consulting, who has led multiple community-based studies in Florida. Recruitment was in partnership with African businesses and churches. Using a guide developed by MCCCC COE, three focus groups were held to explore African immigrants’ 1) general experiences, 2) access to social services, 3) perspective of community health and diseases, 4) access and use of healthcare services, 5) knowledge and participation in clinical trials, and 6) appropriate strategies for providing community education and enhancing participation in research studies. RESULTS 24 participants participated in the focus groups. 83% had recently immigrated from Africa (Democratic of the Congo, Benin, Ghana, Sudan, Mali, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Nigeria). The remaining 17% recently immigrated from Haiti or came to the US as a baby. Participants reported suprise to the proliferation of chronic diseases, such as increased cancer diagnoses of those who immigrated to the United States. Most participants associated this with the Western sedentary lifestyle, dietary habits, and lack of access to fresh food. Participants connected to refugee organizations reported knowledge of the ability to access health education resources and mental/physical care services, but those not connected with similar organizations expressed limited knowledge about access. Similarly, participants with no connection to refugee organizations reported not knowing where to access healthcare services and not seeking services until home remedies had failed. Only 33% of participants reported knowledge of clinical trials and all reported mistrust of research. Many of the participants expressed a need for health-related information upon arrival in the United States. CONCLUSION There is currently little infrastructure in place to support African immigrants in Jacksonville, Florida, which can contribute to cancer health disparities in this population. Strong community engagement is needed to partner with African immigrant communities to address culturally specific needs identified of this underrepresented population. The needs expressed by participants include information on physical activity, nutrition, and healthcare/clinical trials. A strong partnership with African immigrant communities has the potential to address cancer disparities and increase both trust and participation in clinical trials. Citation Format: Jocelyn Turner, Laureen Husband, Jessica Otero, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Parisa Fathi, Jennifer Crook, Folakemi Odedina. Perspectives of African immigrants on community health needs and clinical trials [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A052.
Abstract A046: Addressing health disparities through lunch and learns in underserved communities
Gordon, Vinessa, Flynn, Shaina, Crook, Jennifer , Merriweather, Arnold, Smith, Vermelle, Marvin, Fullwood, Small, Cassandra , Odedina, Folakemi T., Ngufor, Che

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A046-A046

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a046 Get It

Abstract Background: Health Zone 1 in Jacksonville, Fl contains a large population of underserved residents with limited resources. The high level of poverty, lower educational attainment, increased chronic illness diagnoses, and higher rates of mortality can be attributed to poorer overall health from diseases such as cancer and diabetes when compared to other health zones. Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center Community Outreach and Engagement (MCCC COE) partnered with American Legion Post 197 (ALP 197), a veteran led organization, to specifically address the health disparities face by residents of this community. The post is located within Health Zone 1 and has a history of philanthropic contributions, making it a trusted community partner vital to the success of community health initiatives. In November 2022, ALP began instituting twice monthly Lunch & Learn (LL) programs, offering meals/snacks in conjunction with health education. Aims: The aims of LL programs are to increase resident access to: (1) health information, (2) health resources, and (3) clinical trials. Methodology: Using the community based participatory research framework and funded by the Department of Defense, MCCC COE first increased infrastructure of ALP197 by upgrading internet and public connectivity, installation of touch kiosks, mounting digital boards, and health literature (flyers and pamphlets). The LL are where healthcare experts facilitate discussion with participants on various topics, specifically requested by residents. Topics have included SDoH, understanding prescribed medication, the importance of clinical trials, mental health and stress management, stroke prevention, and proton therapy. LL are advertised on radio stations and shared through emails to past participants and other organizations. During LL programs, participants are instructed about and directed to the kiosks, where they may obtain more information on illnesses, access resources, and sign up for clinical trials. Results: To date, LL have been attended by over 50 residents. The efforts at the ALP 197 has led to increased knowledge, access to resources via the kiosks, and an increase in signup for clinical trials. The outcomes of this effort have also resulted in additional partnerships. One such partnership is with LitTV, a black owned and operated TV network that disseminates information locally in Duval County, nationally and internationally. Reach of the activities at the post includes television interviews, and articles, viewed by thousands and disseminated widely discussing our collaboration. Conclusion: The impact of our partnership with ALP 197 to reduce disease burden among in Health Zone 1 is already far reaching. LL continue to increase in monthly participation with new topic requested by residents regularly. Future monitoring of participant knowledge and attitude changes from LL are planned to be studied through pre/post surveys. We have received additional funding from the DOD to expand this initiative to health organizations and to other American Legion Posts in the Duval area. Citation Format: Vinessa Gordon, Shaina Flynn, Jennifer Crook, Arnold Merriweather, Vermelle Smith, Fullwood Marvin, Che Ngufor, Cassandra Small, Folakemi Odedina. Addressing health disparities through lunch and learns in underserved communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A046.
Abstract A042: Community advisory board members’ perspectives on genetic literacy and patient-caregiver communication of prognostic genomics for localized prostate cancer
Cobran, Ewan K. , Turner, Jocelyn C., Odedina, Folakemi T., Williams, Roger, Woodrow, Nathan, Bryant, Thomas, Nathan, LoveVonia, Husband, Laureen, Turner, Jocelyn, Bryce, Alan H. , WILLIAMS, CHRISTOPHER R. , Rodríguez, José E. , Williams, Roger, Nathan, Woodrow

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | December 1, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 12_Supplement | Pages: A042-A042

10.1158/1538-7755.disp23-a042 Get It

Abstract Background: The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends the use of tissue-based genetic tests, such as Decipher, Prolaris, and Confirm mdx for localized prostate cancer, to help patients and caregivers make more informed treatment decisions at the time of diagnosis. However, while much enthusiasm currently exists for the burgeoning field of genomic medicine, prostate cancer disparities continue to persist in underserved communities despite the existence of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Methods: A diverse 15-member Community Advisory Board (CAB) representing rural and urban communities in Duval County, Florida were recruited from May to June 2023, to build a community-academic partnership, for the development and implementation of a genetic literacy patient-caregiver educational intervention for localized prostate cancer. The 15-member CAB was divided into groups of 5 for focus group discussions. Qualitative and quantitative data from CAB members were integrated to gain better understanding of the facilitators and barriers for prostate cancer genetic literacy in underserved communities. Results: The thematic analysis reveals several key themes related to prostate cancer, screening, treatment, and genetics. These themes reflect the diverse perspectives and experiences of the CAB members regarding prostate cancer, ranging from personal anecdotes to broader societal issues. Participants expressed thoughts related to fear, lack of knowledge, cultural beliefs, and access to healthcare. The discussion on prostate cancer and tissue based genetic testing highlighted the complexities surrounding prostate cancer and the need for further education, awareness, and access to affordable healthcare for all individuals at risk. Conclusion: CAB members emphasized the importance of improving access to information, promoting education, and addressing cultural barriers to ensure that individuals are informed about available options for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Citation Format: Ewan K. Cobran, Jocelyn Turner, Folakemi Odedina, Alan H. Bryce, Christopher Williams, Jose Rodriguez, Roger Williams, Woodrow Nathan, Thomas Bryant III, LoveVonia Nathan, Laureen Husband. Community advisory board members’ perspectives on genetic literacy and patient-caregiver communication of prognostic genomics for localized prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A042.