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Merriweather, Arnold

Mayo Clinic

2Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium, Global Consortium, Jacksonville, Florida

Citations 20

Advancing Prostate Cancer Survivorship Through Transatlantic Consortium Science: The iCCaRE Initiative
Odedina, Folakemi T. , Dronca, Roxana , Ashing, Kimlin , Kaninjing, Ernest , Rotimi, Solomon O. , Ngufor, Che , Merriweather, Arnold , Gordon, Vinessa , Asto-Flores, Emelina , Adeniji, Kayode, Agboola, Emmanuel, Aliche, Uju, Aliyu, Usman M., Ashing, Kimlin Tam, Asiedu, Gladys, Badejo, Paul, Johnson, Kim Barbel, Beckford, Patrick , Blocker, Renaldo, Bolajoko, Opeyemi, Bonner, Timethia J, Breland, Ivey, Caballero, Amanda , Carter, Rickey, Cattnell, Alex, COBRAN, Ewan, Colon-Otero, Gerardo, Copland, John A., Phd, Getachew Dagne, Campos, Opeyemi C. De, Doty, Melissa, Dronca, Roxana, Erefah, Ebenezer, Falzon, Kaila, Francis, Damian, Fudge, Michelle, Fullwood, Dottington , Gainer, Jeffery, Glaser-Boivin, Dee, Hill, Antony, Hinsom, Rakenya, Iweala, Emeka J., Kaninjing, Ernie, Kase, Adam, Knutsen, Keith, Lee, Daniel, Leyva, Sandra Casanova, Lindeman, Carolyn R., Mahin, Collisa, Maniaci, Michael, Hew, Trevanne Matthews, Hew, Trevanne R. Matthews, Melton, Jada K., Merriweather, Arnold, Mitchell, Luisa, Moore, Cassandra, Ngufor, Che, Nolan, Lucia, Odedina, Abimbola, Odedina, Folakemi, Oladoyinbo, Catherine, Olasehinde, Esther, Onyia, Abimbola F., Popoola, Ademoola, Rotimi, Solomon O., Scales, Tracie, Sledge, Hanna, Thompson-Reeves, Jade, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Duarte, Claudia Valles, Voorhis, Kaitlin Van, Waldon, Charles F., Walsh-Childers, Kim , Williams, Christopher, Willis, Floyd , Wimberly, Quincy , Yahaya, Ayinde, Yates, PhD Clayton, Yost, Kathleen, Young, Mary Ellen , Zou, Tingyu, Ashing, Kimlin Tam , Rotimi, Solomon , Odedina, Folakemi , Kaninjing, Ernest T , Ngufor, Che G , Aliche, Uju, Badejo, Paul, Blocker, Renaldo, Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Cattnell, Alex, Cobran, Ewan K. , Colon-Otero, Gerardo, Copland, John A., Francis, Damian, Fudge, Michelle , Gainer, Jeffery, Gokara, Mahesh , Hinsom, Rakenya, Iweala, Emeka J., Knutsen, Keith, Lee, Daniel, Lindeman, Carolyn R., McCall, John , Melton, Jada K., Mitchell, Luisa, Olasehinde, Esther, Popoola, Ademoola, Reynolds, Jordan , Scales, Tracie, Sledge, Hanna, Thompson-Reeves, Jade, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Duarte, Claudia Valles, Voorhis, Kaitlin Van, Waldon, Charles F., Williams, Christopher, Yost, Kathleen, Zou, Tingyu

Cancer Research Communications | July 24, 2026 | Volume: No volume available | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available

10.1158/2767-9764.crc-26-0165 Get It

Abstract Black/African American populations, globally, bear the greatest prostate cancer (CaP) burden compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Addressing CaP disparities in Black men is complex, requiring a patient-centered, community-centric and comprehensive approach. This study integrates iCCaRE Consortium findings and broader literature to address unmet needs in survivorship care. The iCCaRE Consortium implemented five complementary pilot studies using mixed-methods designs, including feasibility trials, qualitative research, and observational analyses across the United States and sub-Saharan Africa. Descriptive statistics, subgroup analyses, and qualitative thematic analyses were performed across these studies. Collectively, projects addressed multilevel determinants including social, behavioral, and biological drivers of disparities. Project 1 implemented a Virtual Reality Assistant (ViRA) across clinical and community settings, with ongoing evaluation in pragmatic trials. Project 2 showed strong patient preference for home-based cancer care. Project 3 enrolled demonstrated trends toward improved health-related quality of life. Project 4 identified key themes influencing survivorship experiences. Project 5 identified biological mechanisms linking stress, immune modulation, and symptom burden. The iCCaRE pilot projects demonstrate the feasibility and early impact of a consortium-based, transdisciplinary approach to addressing CaP disparities in Black men. These findings highlight the importance of integrating patient-centered interventions, community engagement, and biological insights to inform scalable strategies aimed at improving survivorship outcomes and advancing health equity. The iCCaRE Consortium demonstrates that a transatlantic, patient-centered, and multidisciplinary approach integrating social, clinical, and biological factors can generate scalable strategies to improve survivorship outcomes and advance equity in CaP care for Black men.
Abstract LB324: The impact of the Community Living Lab learning health system on the prostate cancer knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and cues to action of Black men
Odedina, Folakemi T., Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Wimberly, Quincy A., Lee, Daniel W. , Willis, Floyd B. , Moultrie, Toshiko, Ford, Wayne , Green, Derry , Merriweather, Arnold, Fudge, Michelle, Wimberly, Quincy , Fudge, Michelle

Cancer Research | April 17, 2026 | Volume: 86 | Issue: 8_Supplement | Pages: LB324-LB324

10.1158/1538-7445.am2026-lb324 Get It

Abstract Background: Black men experience the highest burden of prostate cancer (CaP) incidence and mortality in the United States. The reasons documented for the significant burden of CaP in Black communities include health systems, care process, and individual/personal level factors, such as cultural factors, psychosocial factors, decision making/preferences, comprehension, past experience, and perceived behavioral control. The Community Living Lab (CoLLab) Learning Health System (LHS) was established within three American Legion Posts (ALP) in Northeast Florida to address these factors. Study Objective: This clinical trial study evaluated the impact of the CoLLab LHS on the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and cues to action of Black men who received Resources, Education, Amenities, and Community Health (REACH) services at the ALPs. Methods: The design was guided by the Intervention Mapping Framework and the Social Ecological Model. CoLLab REACH services were made available to participants through trusted community infrastructures. Services integrated include CaP resources and materials, social determinant of health navigation, healthy grocery distribution, cancer advocacy programs, and research participation. Participants were recruited at three ALPs and were asked to visit their respective CoLLab LHS site at least twice a month and up to 24 times over one year to use any of the services. The impact was measured using baseline and quarterly surveys assessing CaP awareness, knowledge, attitude, health beliefs, perceived control, intentions, and cues to action. Descriptive statistics were used to compare participants' information at baseline and at 3-month follow-up. Results: A total of 173 participants were included in this analysis; 57.9% were ≥ 60 years, and 92.2% were US-born Black men. Prostate cancer knowledge increased from baseline to 3-month follow-up. The median score rose from 4±1.29 at baseline, with the mean increasing to 4.24±1.10. Attitudes towards Cap screening declined marginally from 12.58±2.15 to 12.27±2.40. Health beliefs showed a clear upward shift, with the mean increasing from 22.86±3.0 at baseline to 23.20±2.82 after 3 months of intervention. Additionally, cues to action also improved, with the mean increasing from 2.78±1.67 to 3.25±1.45. Only the cues-to-action index showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.018), with higher scores observed after 3 months of intervention. Conclusion: Across the four core constructs—prostate cancer knowledge, testing attitudes, health beliefs, and cues to action—outcomes at follow-up demonstrated modest but consistent improvements compared to those of baseline, alongside slightly reduced variability for most domains. Overall, the evaluation showed that CoLLab REACH services improved knowledge, enhanced stronger health beliefs, and significantly increased cues to action, while testing attitudes remained comparatively stable. Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Opeyemi Oreoluwa Bolajoko, Quincy A. Wimberly, Daniel W. Lee, Floyd B. Willis, Toshiko Moultrie, Wayne Ford, Derry Green, Arnold J. Merriweather, Michelle Fudge. The impact of the Community Living Lab learning health system on the prostate cancer knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and cues to action of Black men [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2026; Part 2 (Late-Breaking, Clinical Trial, and Invited Abstracts); 2026 Apr 17-22; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2026;86(8_Suppl):Abstract nr LB324.
Abstract 6306: Novel application of the iCCaRE consortium virtual reality assistant (ViRA) to support Black men at the point of prostate cancer diagnosis
Odedina, Folakemi T., Williams, Christopher, Young, Mary Ellen , Willis, Floyd B. , Kase, Adam M. , Merriweather, Arnold, Asto-Flores, Emelina , Glaser-Boivin, Dee M., Melton, J. Joseph, Albertie, Monica, Fudge, Michelle, Wimberly, Quincy A., Ngufor, Che , Williams, Christopher, Glaser-Boivin, Dee, Fudge, Michelle , Wimberly, Quincy

Cancer Research | April 3, 2026 | Volume: 86 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 6306-6306

10.1158/1538-7445.am2026-6306 Get It

Abstract Background: Black men carry a disproportionate prostate cancer (CaP) burden and often experience significant psychosocial distress at the point of prostate cancer diagnosis (PPCD). Many report emotional shock, uncertainty, and limited access to culturally competent guidance, which can negatively affect treatment decisions and long-term survivorship. To address these needs, we developed the PPCD Virtual Reality Assistant (ViRA), an immersive, AI-enabled intervention co-designed with Black CaP survivors. ViRA delivers tailored psycho-oncology support, emotional guidance, and navigation of social determinants of health (SDOH) within virtual reality environments. This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of the PPCD ViRA (NCT06535802). Methods: ViRA was developed through a structured, seven-step co-design process with survivors, integrating mobile immersive technologies, SDOH navigation, and culturally grounded psycho-oncology content. Personalization was enabled through AI-driven predictive analytics and a recommendation engine. Alpha testing assessed initial usability and acceptability among 10 participants (seven team members and three Black CaP survivors). Beta testing with 24 Black men in Florida examined feasibility and preliminary efficacy. Results: A demonstration of ViRA is available (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mI-HS5R6sk). Alpha testing indicated strong usability, positive emotional engagement, and clear promise for enhancing support at the PPCD. In Beta testing, participants varied in age; most were married (58.3%), held a bachelor’s degree (45.8%), were retired (45.8%), and had a family history of cancer (83.3%). ViRA use was associated with increased engagement and reduced distress across participants. Overall, 74% rated ViRA as “excellent,” while the remainder rated it as “good” or “very good.” More than 90% reported being “very satisfied,” with the rest indicating satisfaction. Conclusions: Findings demonstrate high feasibility, acceptability, and cultural relevance of the PPCD ViRA for supporting Black men at diagnosis. Lessons learned highlight the need for culturally embedded design, emotional timing, community co-creation, flexible delivery formats, and strong community partnerships to advance digital health equity. The refinement and larger-scale validation to establish clinical utility and readiness for implementation is ongoing (NCT07126548). Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Che Ngufor, Christopher Williams, Mary Ellen Young, Floyd Willis, Adam M. Kase, Arnold Merriweather, Emelina Asto-Flores, Dee M. Glaser-Boivin, Jada Melton, Monica L. Albertie, Michelle Fudge, Quincy Wimberly, Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium, Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC). Novel application of the iCCaRE consortium virtual reality assistant (ViRA) to support Black men at the point of prostate cancer diagnosis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2026; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2026 Apr 17-22; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2026;86(7 Suppl):Abstract nr 6306.
Abstract 2382: Achieving prostate cancer equity globally: Multinational advances from the iCCaRE consortium
Odedina, Folakemi T., Merriweather, Arnold, Dronca, Roxana , Colon-Otero, Gerardo, Popoola, Ademola Alabi, Asiedu, Gladys B. , Bolajoko, Opeyemi , COBRAN, Ewan, Asto-Flores, Emelina , Willis, Floyd B. , Williams, Christopher, Albertie, Monica, Fudge, Michelle, Toye, Oluwaseyi, Mahin, Collisa, Melton, J. Joseph, Kaninjing, Ernest , Rotimi, Solomon O. , Ashing, Kimlin , Popoola, Ademola , Cobran, Ewan K. , Williams, Christopher, Fudge, Michelle , Toye, Oluwaseyi

Cancer Research | April 3, 2026 | Volume: 86 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 2382-2382

10.1158/1538-7445.am2026-2382 Get It

Abstract Background: Black men across the African Diaspora experience a disproportionate burden of prostate cancer (CaP). The Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium aims to eliminate CaP burden through global scientific collaboration, innovative research, community-engaged interventions, and next-generation workforce development. The primary objective for this Consortium was to optimize CaP diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship through research, research training and education, community engagement and community outreach. The Consortium integrates digital health technologies, community navigation, precision communication and precision science. Methods: Five full projects and one pilot project were launched across partner institutions in North America and Africa. Supported by multiple cores and services, the research activities included (1) implementation of a Point of Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Virtual Robot Assistant (PPCD-ViRA); (3) initiation of a cancer care at home trial; (4) migrant health studies of Caribbean and Sub-Saharan African immigrants; (5) expansion of genomic and metabolomic research; and (6) digital, psychosocial, and survivorship intervention development. Training and dissemination activities were deployed through iCCaRE TV, webinars, and community engagement programs including the Global Prostate Health Dialogue (Glo-PHD). Results: In one year, accomplishments included 45 presentations, 17 publications, 16 grant submissions, and 3 awards. The consortium delivered 408 live webinar engagements and reached more than 400 men globally through Glo-PHD. PPCD-ViRA was fully developed and prepared for clinical deployment (see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mI-HS5R6sk). The African cohort expansion for genomic and metabolomic profiling was activated across several countries, with biospecimen collection underway. Media dissemination generated more than 15,000 views across platforms, including high-impact educational videos (see: www.youtube.com/@iCCaREConsortium). Training achievements included 13 early-career investigators and 7 trained prostate cancer advocates. Conclusions: In just one year, the iCCaRE Consortium Phase 2 made substantial progress toward transforming CaP equity globally. Through multidisciplinary science, digital innovation, and community partnerships, the consortium is building scalable infrastructure to address diagnosis experiences, treatment quality, and survivorship among Black men. Ongoing efforts will continue to advance precision medicine, culturally grounded interventions, and global capacity building. Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Arnold Merriweather, Roxana S. Dronca, Ernest T. Kaninjing, Solomon Rotimi, Gerardo Colon-Otero, Kimlin Ashing, Ademola A. Popoola, Gladys Asiedu, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Ewan COBRAN, Emelina Asto-Flores, Floyd Willis, Christopher Williams, Monica L. Albertie, Michelle Fudge, Oluwaseyi Toye, Collisa Mahin, Jada Melton, Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium, Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC). Achieving prostate cancer equity globally: Multinational advances from the iCCaRE consortium [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2026; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2026 Apr 17-22; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2026;86(7 Suppl):Abstract nr 2382.
Abstract 880: Examining contextual distress and utility of a digital survivorship care toolkit.
Willis, Floyd B. , McCall, John R. , Song, Gaole , Adu-Fokuo, Douglas, Galdamez, Erika, Bedell, Fornati, Moore, Cassandra N., Cobran, Ewan K. , Yost, Kathleen J. , Bonner, Timethia , Dagne, Getachew , Merriweather, Arnold, Oladapo, Rotimi, Dronca, Roxana , Odedina, Folakemi T., Ashing, Kimlin , Williams, Christopher Michael , Ngufor, Che , Kaninjing, Ernest

Cancer Research | April 3, 2026 | Volume: 86 | Issue: 7_Supplement | Pages: 880-880

10.1158/1538-7445.am2026-880 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Attending to survivorship including distress in the contexts of social drivers (SDH) is critical but lacking. In response, this novel research on Black CaP survivors (CaPS) aims to measure SDH distresses and assess utility of a digital intervention to inform survivorship studies, practice and outcomes. Method: Informed by the Science of Survivorship, and our pilot study with multisectoral stakeholders, we assessed SDH and acceptability/utility of a digital Survivorship Care (SC) Toolkit. SCToolkit is a digitized whole-person care with guidance from multisectoral stakeholders e.g., clinicians and survivors. SCToolkit includes: ASCO informed treatment summary template for diagnostics, treatments, side effects, care team, genetics, and comorbidities, and patient active guide on survivorship concerns, provider communication, health advisories, survivorship care booklet, SDH FINDHELP resource, and survivorship videos. SCToolkit was delivered via survivors’ personal REDCap file, and can be uploaded to their EMR patient portal for easy-to-use survivorship roadmap accessible on smartphones, laptops, and computers. Motivational Interviewing was provided via Zoom to facilitate digital efficacy and SCToolkit use. Descriptive analyses were conducted using SAS. Citation Format: Kimlin Ashing, Floyd Willis, Christopher Williams, John McCall, Gaole Song, Douglas Adu-Fokuo, Erika Galdamez, Fornati Bedell, Cassandra N. Moore, EWAN COBRAN, Che Ngufor, Kathleen J. Yost, Timethia J. Bonner, Getachew Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, Ernest T. Kaninjing, Rotimi Oladapo, Roxana S. Dronca, Folakemi T. Odedina. Examining contextual distress and utility of a digital survivorship care toolkit [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2026; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2026 Apr 17-22; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2026;86(7 Suppl):Abstract nr 880.
Abstract C138: Influence of demographic factors and knowledge on prostate cancer screening attitude and research participation among Black men
Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Wimberly, Quincy A., Lee, Daniel W. , Mahin, Collisa, Fudge, Michelle, Flynn, Shaina, Merriweather, Arnold, Hew, Trevanne Rose Matthews, Albertie, Monica, Greene, Dery, Ford, W. Scott, Moultrie, Toshiko, Willis, Floyd B. , Fudge, Michelle , Greene, Dery, Ford, Wayne

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 18, 2025 | Volume: 34 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: C138-C138

10.1158/1538-7755.disp25-c138 Get It

Abstract Introduction: The disproportionate prostate cancer (CaP) burden, which includes high mortality rates, is significantly attributed to the characteristics of the social determinants of the health status of the Black Male population. Designing targeted interventions to address poor health outcomes through a collaborative population-based approach could reduce CaP health disparities. The Community Living Lab (CoLLab) Learning Health System was developed to address ethnically sensitive, targeted approaches that will eliminate CaP health disparities among Black Men. This study assessed demographic factors and Knowledge on prostate cancer screening attitudes and research participation among black men. Method: The collab project employed a social ecological model to design intervention to address barriers to CaP screening and participation in clinical trials. A validated, pretested questionnaire was used to collect information on demographics, CaP knowledge, attitudes, testing, and a history of participation in research and clinical trials. Baseline data were collected from 3 American Legion posts (ALPs). The association between variables was evaluated using the Chi-square test. Results: Participants between 60-69 years were 28.38%, and those aged 40-49 were 12.16%. Most are US-born Black (89.8%), with others identifying as African-born Black (6.76%) and Caribbean-born Black (1.35%). Approximately 43.24% were retired, and 36.49% were working full-time. CaP knowledge was high in 43.9%, moderate in 46.6%, and low in 9.5%. Only 45% of the participants have undergone Prostate-Specific Antigen test, and 24.6% have had a Digital Rectal Examination. Reported past clinical trials and research participation were very low (9.38%). Participants with higher knowledge levels had higher information scores (p < .0001), favored various research settings (p = 0.0008), had favorable attitudes towards CaP testing (p < .0001), and were more likely to participate in research (p = 0.0117). Work status was found to impact CaP Knowledge (p = 0.0117). Participants with stronger beliefs about prostate cancer may have different attitudes toward testing (p = 0.0444). Age did not impact attitudes toward CaP testing (p = 0.4298). Conclusion: The knowledge of CaP was found to impact the attitudes, testing, and disposition of the participants towards research. The baseline data generated from the clinical study will curate insightful evidence that will create innovative approaches to prostate cancer education among males in Black communities. Citation Format: Opeyemi O. Bolajoko, Quincy A. Wimberly, Daniel W. Lee, Collisa Mahin, Michelle Fudge, Shaina E. Flynn, Arnold J. Merriweather, Trevanne R. Matthews Hew, Monica L. Albertie, Dery Greene, Wayne Ford, Toshiko Moultrie, Floyd B. Willis, Folakemi T. Odedina. Influence of demographic factors and knowledge on prostate cancer screening attitude and research participation among Black men [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C138.
Abstract A024: Whole person survivorship: Multilevel distress in prostate cancer survivors from priority communities
Willis, Floyd B. , Song, Gaole , Bedell, Fornati, Moore, Cassandra N., Cobran, Ewan K. , Bonner, Timethia , Dagne, Getachew , Merriweather, Arnold, Kaninjing, Ernie, Oladapo, Rotimi, Dronca, Roxana , Dottington, Fullwood, Odedina, Folakemi T., Ashing, Kimlin , Williams, Christopher Michael , McCall, John , Ngufor, Che

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 18, 2025 | Volume: 34 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: A024-A024

10.1158/1538-7755.disp25-a024 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Advances in treatment have led to significant increases in survival rates, with over 90% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer (CaP) living at least five years. However, surviving cancer and its treatment often weigh a hefty survivorship burden. Men from the at-risk, vulnerable populations have the greatest burden. This study aims to understand distress among Black CaP survivors (CaPS) who bear the heaviest CaP burden. Method: We conducted key informant interviews with Motivational Interviewing techniques to collect CaPS demographic information, medical history, and multilevel distress evaluation. Descriptive analyses were conducted using SAS. Results: A total of 22 CaPS (aged from 48 to 72) were involved in the study. The majority of CaPS were African American (90.9%) and were diagnosed with stage 2 (31.8%) or stage 3 (36.4%). Over half of them (68.2%) were treated by surgery; most CaPS (90.9%) experienced side effects from prostate cancer treatments. CaPS reported distress in the following domains: Emotional well-being (e.g., Feeling sad, depressed or anxious, mental health) – 40.9%, Death of someone very close to you (e.g., family) – 36.4%, Alcohol use in close family – 36.4%, Experiences of discrimination or racism – 36.4%, Healthcare costs and coverage (e.g., medication, medical services, copay, insurance premium) – 31.8%, Loneliness and isolation – 27.3%, Serious injury/illness in close family (e.g., being a caregiver) – 27.3%, Money and finance – 22.7%, Using telehealth (e.g., using a smartphone or tablet for telephone or over the computer, clinic visit, patient portal, completing online forms, virtual classes) – 22.7%, Marriage, romantic relationships – 22.7%. Discussion: Black CaP survivors (CaPS) who bear the heaviest CaP burden are considered a priority population for research and care. These CaPS identified that their psychological distress was related to both familial and socioeconomic issues. The most endorsed life-stresses included emotional wellbeing, experiences of discrimination/racism, loneliness and isolation, healthcare cost/finance, family health, personal relationship, and telehealth use. The distress data as measured by the life-stress scale are invaluable in better documenting and addressing distress in interventions responsive to specific priority communities. Our novel findings suggest the relevance of grief and loss for these men. 36% reported death of someone close, and 27% indicated distress due to loneliness and isolation. Though the sample size was small, the distress data obtained may inform the science and practice of whole-person survivorship that consider distress emphasizing emotional wellbeing. The study is ongoing, and this abstract presents preliminary results; further muti-variate analyses will be conducted for the conference presentation. Citation Format: Kimlin Ashing, Floyd Willis, Chris Williams, John Mccall, Gaole Song, Fornati Bedell, Cassandra Moore, Ewan Cobran, Che Ngufor, Timethia Bonner, Getachew Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, Ernie Kaninjing, Rotimi Oladapo, Roxana Dronca, Fullwood Dottington, Folakemi Odedina. Whole person survivorship: Multilevel distress in prostate cancer survivors from priority communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A024.
Decentralized Clinical Trials at Home: Commentary on Caregivers’ Burden
Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Fullwood, Dottington , Colissa, Mahin, Merriweather, Arnold, Merriweather, Callie, Odedina, Folakemi T., Bolajoko, Opeyemi

Cancer Control | December 5, 2024 | Volume: 31 | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available

10.1177/10732748241305581 Get It

Decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) provide the opportunity to bring interventional studies closer to participants in their homes or a suitable location closer to prospective participants, thus increasing participants’ diversity, accrual, retention, health care, and research access. However, little is known about the burden of caring for cancer patients participating in DCTs. This article describes how DCTs might affect the caregivers of cancer patients. The points discussed include how technological challenges for those without adequate digital literacy can overburden participants and their caregivers at home, as well as managing and optimizing research logistics and safe handling of samples. In addition, the shift in labor from the study personnel to the participants and their caregivers in a bid to complete several study procedures on their own can increase the care burden, especially if not well incentivized. Therefore, it is important to accumulate evidence on ways to optimize DCTs, especially in the home environment, without increasing the burden on caregivers, who will be an integral part of the study team and support the research at home.
Abstract B073: Utilizing Community Living Labs (CoLLab) to address prostate cancer disparities in Black men: An innovative partnership with the American Legion Post and Mayo Clinic
Willis, Floyd B. , Mahin, Collisa, Bolajoko, Opeyemi , Ramirez, Caleb, Pressey, Shannon, Flynn, Shaina, Merriweather, Arnold, Moultrie, Toshiko, Smith, Vermelle, Ford, W. Scott, Green, Derry , Ford, Wayne

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 21, 2024 | Volume: 33 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: B073-B073

10.1158/1538-7755.disp24-b073 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Black men experience a significant burden and face greater hurdles in the prevention, detection, treatment, and survival of prostate cancer (CaP). To address barriers and systemic issues associated with CaP, we have established Community Living Lab (CoLLab) Learning Health Systems through a partnership with the American Legion Post (ALP) and Mayo Clinic. The focus is on providing comprehensive prostate health resources, education, amenities, and community health services (REACH). This initiative represents a proactive approach to addressing health disparities in prostate cancer prevention, detection, and treatment to improve CaP health equity for Black men. This study has three primary aims: (1) Co-develop a user-centric CoLLab Learning Health System with collaborating ALPs, (2) Evaluate the impact of the CoLLab Learning Health System using a pretest-posttest design, and (3) Explore the feasibility of replicating the CoLLab Learning Health System in Black communities nationally. Methods: Three ALPs in Northeast Florida are currently included in this pilot study. The study timeline spans 30 months, from October 2023 to March 2026. The target recruitment is 150 Black men aged 30 to 80 years. Community Health Workers (CHWs) are currently recruiting participants to complete the ALP Neighborhood assessment four times over 12 months to measure changes in CaP-related knowledge, attitudes, health beliefs, perceived control, intentions, and cues to action. Participants will be able to access prostate health REACH services at the designated ALPs through education, navigation, and support services. The program will be continuously evaluated for continuous improvement. The reach of the prostate health REACH services, including extent and patterns of use, demographics of participants reached, and successful navigation for social determinants of health (SDOH), clinical trials, and healthcare, will be evaluated. Additionally, participation in the Community Research Registry, indicating interest in being matched with clinical trials at Mayo Clinic, will be assessed. Results: To date, we have trained 10 CHWs for the study who will serve as community navigators to provide REACH services at their designated ALPs. We have had 49 Black men recruited into the study, and they have completed the baseline assessment at various events held at the ALPs. CaP survivors support group, led by ALP, has begun providing survivorship support services, including healthcare navigation, wellness programs, and grocery distribution to Black men and their households in the community surrounding the ALPs. Conclusion: The CoLLab initiative represents a proactive approach to addressing health disparities and improving outcomes for Black men in CaP prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship. This study represents a crucial step towards eliminating CaP disparities experienced by Black men, contributing to improved health equity and outcomes in this population. Citation Format: Floyd B Willis, Collisa Mahin, Opeyemi O Bolajoko, Caleb Ramirez, Shannon Pressey, Shaina Flynn, Arnold J Merriweather, Toshiko Moultrie, Vermelle Smith, Wayne Ford, Derry Green. Utilizing Community Living Labs (CoLLab) to address prostate cancer disparities in Black men: An innovative partnership with the American Legion Post and Mayo Clinic [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B073.
Abstract C042: iCCaRE qualitative interviews for Black prostate cancer survivors and quality of life
Morrison, J. Cayce, Song, Gaole , Bonner, Timethia , Dagne, Getachew , Merriweather, Arnold, Cobran, Ewan K. , Moore, Cassandra N., Bedell, Fornati, Oladapo, Rotimi, Willis, Floyd B. , Oliver, JoAnne S., Kaninjing, Ernie, Dronca, Roxana , Morrison, James, Ashing, Kimlin , McCall, John , Ngufor, Che

Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | September 21, 2024 | Volume: 33 | Issue: 9_Supplement | Pages: C042-C042

10.1158/1538-7755.disp24-c042 Get It

Abstract Intro: Compared to white men, Black men bear the highest burden of prostate cancer, experiencing a higher incidence and mortality rate, and poorer survivorship outcomes. Although prioritized, survivorship and quality of life (QOL) are under-studied in the fight against prostate cancer disparities. To address this issue, clinicians, researchers, and community advocates have formed the Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium for Black Men. iCCaRE’s goal is to advance the science and practice of survivorship focused on the needs of Black men and their loved ones affected by prostate cancer. Methods: We developed a survivorship care plan (SCP) tailored to the whole person's needs. IRB-approved qualitative methods to preliminarily gain evaluation and guidance on the SCP. The SCP presented content in the following areas: diagnosis and treatment, follow-up care/surveillance, family history, care team, major co-morbidities, symptoms and quality of life, survivorship concerns, and health advisories. Results: 23 Black prostate cancer survivors (PCS) participated and provided feedback on the SCP Mean age was 64 years. PCS diagnosed between 2018-2023 between stages 1-4. The Majority of PCS were provided information for follow-up and side effects. But none had received a comprehensive SCP All agreed that the SCP would contribute to enhancing cancer knowledge, patient activation, and shared decision, and their QOL, if the SCP was obtained. A survivor noted “having inspirational quotes throughout the SCP is important”. An unforeseen consequence to the interviews was the emotional release for the men, justifying the need for the SCP and an expansion of its scope. Domains that the men wanted more contents were social support, sexuality, masculinity, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. All PCS understood the value of having trusted family and friends to bear the burden of the disease despite some not having a solid support system. PCS emphasized the role of family support stating, “my wife and children helped me stay positive”. Another critical lifestyle component that survivors mentioned was their sexuality and how it directly reflects their masculinity. Although PCS adapted to other forms of intimacy like couples’ activities and stronger communication with their partners, majority of men struggle with adapting to their sexual performance. A quote by a survivor encompasses the mindset expressed by many of the men fear “Like a track star in his prime who can’t run anymore”. Erectile Dysfunction can lead to fear and anxiety among survivors, ultimately affecting QOL. Lastly, PCS wanted more options to stay fit and healthy. Further research and resources are needed to address survivor concerns in this area. Discussion: Overall, PCS have acknowledged that the SCP can assist them in these areas of concern, but more research is required. Life after prostate cancer treatment is an ongoing process; while some survivors cope better than others, it is evident a need for more information and guidance is not being provided to all those affected. Citation Format: James Morrison, Kimlin Ashing, Gaole Song, John McCall, Timethia J. Bonner, Che Ngufor, Getachew A. Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, Ewan Cobran, Cassandra N. Moore, Fornati Bedell, Rotimi Oladapo, Floyd B. Willis, JoAnne S. Oliver, Ernie Kaninjing, Roxana Dronca, Folakemi T. Odedina. iCCaRE qualitative interviews for Black prostate cancer survivors and quality of life [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C042.