Ngufor, Che

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 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 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 Acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. We developed a machine learning-based mortality model to identify features and patient subgroups associated with the largest change in mortality risk when evaluating treatment with Impella devices or intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP). Our cohort comprised 369 sites and 15,796 patient visits to the cardiac catheterization laboratory from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry. The estimated population mean excess mortality effect of treatment with Impella devices vs IABP was 10.4 ± 0.8%. However, we identified clinical subgroups of 282 patients for whom a decreased risk of mortality was associated with use of Impella as compared with IABP. Those patients were on average younger, presented with higher systolic blood pressure, higher rate of salvage percutaneous coronary intervention, higher initial creatinine, and lower hemoglobin. While Impella devices were associated with higher mortality risk overall, certain clinical profiles were associated with lower risk, illustrating heterogeneity of treatment effects.

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.

Abstract Background: Black women continue to face disproportionate mortality and long-term challenges after breast cancer treatment, including gaps in follow-up care, culturally relevant support, and access to survivorship resources. Digital tools designed with Black survivors in mind remain limited, despite their potential to reduce disparities in post-treatment engagement. Objective: To address these gaps, we developed HERCaRE (Health Equity Resources for Breast Cancer Responsive Education), a progressive web application (PWA) designed to deliver culturally responsive survivorship education and engagement tools to Black breast cancer survivors. HERCaRE was designed to meet the need for a culturally responsive, easily accessible resource that empowers survivors to engage more confidently in their post-treatment care. Methods: The concept for HERCaRE was informed by a previous pilot study on virtual breast health education, in which participants expressed the need for more sustained and accessible support for survivors. Building on that insight, the platform was developed with advisory input from Black breast cancer survivors and community advocates through informal, discussion-based feedback. While not a formal co-design process, this input helped ensure cultural relevance in tone, structure, and visual language. HERCaRE includes three core features: educational modules on key survivorship topics, interactive behavior-prompting activities, and a notes section for self-reflection and goal tracking. The platform is grounded in the Health Promotion Model and RE-AIM framework, providing a foundation for future implementation and evaluation. The platform is currently being prepared for pilot testing, which will assess usability, perceived relevance, and engagement frequency among Black breast cancer survivors. Mixed-method surveys and platform analytics will guide refinement ahead of broader implementation. Preliminary Insights: Early input emphasized the importance of affirming, plain-language content and simple navigation. Activities were designed to promote exploration of the educational material and personal health behaviors through simple, self-guided prompts. Current efforts are focused on content finalization, participant recruitment, and platform readiness for testing. Conclusion: HERCaRE offers a responsive, theory-informed approach to digital survivorship support for Black women. While still in the pre-implementation phase, its development reflects a commitment to accessible design, cultural alignment, and future scalability. The platform lays important groundwork for reducing disparities in survivorship care and expanding digital health tools that center the needs of historically underserved populations. HERCaRE’s modular design and emphasis on user experience position it for adaptation across diverse clinical and community settings, including integration into survivorship programs serving other medically underserved populations. Citation Format: Manisha Salinas, Timethia Bonner, Laura Pacheco-Spann, Oluwadamilola Oladeru, Dianne Townsend, Che Ngufor. A culturally tailored digital health platform to improve breast cancer survivorship for Black women: HERCaRE [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 B048.

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.

Abstract Background: Sub-Saharan African Immigrants (SSAI) represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the immigrant population in the United States (US). Between 2010 and 2018, the SSAI population in the US increased by 53%, significantly outpacing the 12% growth rate for the overall foreign-born population in the US during that time frame. Despite these growing numbers, little is published about the extent to which SSAIs adapt to health behaviors more common in the US or remain immersed in the values, beliefs and practices reflective of their country of origin. Importantly, no study has comprehensively examined the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) among this population relative to their migration experiences and their influence on health-seeking behaviors and decision-making regarding prostate cancer care and treatment options. Methods: This qualitative study employed grounded theory and the social determinants of migrant heath framework to better understand the needs of SSAI prostate cancer survivors in the United States and how to effectively support these survivors. In-depth interviews were conducted with 8 survivors who live in the states of Florida and Minnesota. Findings: Some participants reported limited access to care and financial challenges paying for drugs. In terms of coping with diagnosis and treatment, most of the participants relied on their faith, a positive outlook about survivorship and support of family members. Some participants relied on the coaching and support of a loved one who experienced prostate cancer in the past. Erectile dysfunction severely impacted the sexual life of most participants as they experienced difficulty getting an erection. Conclusion: Participants expressed the benefit of belonging to support groups with other survivors for social and emotional support. As the number of immigrants from sub-Saharan continue to rise, so too will the demand for culturally tailored care to address and reduce disparities in survivorship among this sub-population. Citation Format: Ernest Kaninjing, Gladys Asiedu, Kaitlin Van Voorhis, Mary Ellen Young, Ebenezer Erefah, Emmanuel Agboola, Folakemi Odedina, Roxana Dronca, Kimlin Ashing, Solomon Rotimi, Che Ngufor, Arnola Merriweather, John McCall, Anthony Hill. Social determinants of migrant health factors impacting prostate cancer care and survivorship among sub-Saharan African immigrant men diagnosed with 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 1310.

Abstract Black men hold the highest prostate cancer burden among all ethnicities; thus, there is an urgent need for research to inform the development and implementation of a culturally tailored intervention to reduce disparities and improve outcomes. In response, the Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium was created to advance health equity and reduce disparities in prostate cancer. Addressing the unique needs of Black men require a genuine bidirectional relationship between scientist and the community. In the Black community, faith-based organizations are respected institutions advocating for health equity and justice. Given their vital role as community health gatekeepers, the iCCaRE Consortium partners with faith-based organizations. Rooted in community engaged research (CER), we conducted an environmental scan through stakeholder meetings to discuss the prevailing challenges and opportunities to meet the needs of the Black community along the prostate cancer care continuum. iCCaRE investigators including Partnership Engagement Services (PES) core partnered with faith-based organizations to ensure and advance community responsive cancer prevention. Together, with our faith-based leaders (N=18), we identified gaps including issues associated with the care continuum from screening to diagnosis and from treatment to survivorship; disparities according to health coverage and social determinants of health, and best practices to assist patients including care coordination, patient navigation, digital innovations, and programs offered by patient advocacy organizations. In response to the needs of the community and the strengths of faith-based organization, we prioritized our initial focus on increasing community prostate cancer literacy and activation using co-design educational infographics for both traditional and technology-based communication platforms. The infographics provided evidence-based facts about prostate cancer burden in the Black community; and using a call to action approach, we emphasized the importance of taking action for life saving screening, prevention and healthy lifestyle. Taking action in prostate cancer symptom recognition, survivorship care, and quality care. Also, co-designed infographics were created for clinical studies and biospecimen awareness and participation and the importance of advocacy and equitable care. Another component incorporated face to face trainings and presentations to enhance their knowledge of cancer screening tools, epidemiology of prostate cancer, and pathways to care. This presentation highlighted the first step towards community based intervention development, implementation and dissemination towards equity and justice for prostate cancer prevention and patient/survivor improvements for Black men. Citation Format: James C. Morrison, Kimlin T. Ashing, Gaole Song, Timethia J. Bonner, Che Ngufor, Getachew Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, John McCall, Ewan Cobran, Cassandra N. Moore, Fornati Bedell, Rotimi Oladapo, Floyd B. Willis, Runcie Chidebe Chidebe, Noreen A. Stephenson, JoAnne S. Oliver, Vinessa Gordon, Folakemi Odedina. iCCaRE engagement of faith-based organizations to co-create and co-disseminate infographics addressing disparities in prostate cancer literacy and clinical and biospecimen studies [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 808.

Abstract Introduction: Black men have the highest prostate cancer (CaP) mortality rates. The reason for this disparity is multifaceted, including the barriers that they face at the individual, provider, and health system levels. To address these challenges the iCCaRE for Black Men Consortium uses a multi-level approach to disseminating CaP information. This approach is rooted in research which shows that Black men prefer to receive information through multi-media channels tailored to their needs. In addition, studies have reported that CaP survivors were viewed as credible sources of information. This presentation reports on how iCCaRE Consortium is bridging the digital divide in minoritized communities to disseminate CaP information in a way that is meaningful to the community. Methodology: iCCaRE uses a multimedia method to reach Black men. This includes twitter post, Facebook, YouTube, ecancer and community lunch and learns. In addition to social media, we have partnered with LitTV Network, a locally owned digital TV platform, on which we have iCCaRE TV. On Lit TV network we have the ability to reach 11,000 homes in our catchment area. Furthermore, the consortium has produced informational flyers that are disseminated at outreach events and at the American Legion Post 197. On the twitter page the consortium post: (1) 2 scientific publications per day authored by members of the consortium, (2) 2 weekly “Did You Know” facts about prostate cancer with sources attached, (3) 2 weekly url post sharing a link to a video from the iCCaRE consortium YouTube page and (4) clips of CaP survivors sharing their experiences. On the YouTube page we currently have: videos series of a CaP survivor who is also a physician scientist, interview series with MPIs and members of the consortium, CaP survivor series including a barbershop interview with a survivor. Results: The iCCaRE Consortium multimedia efforts have a global reach, in less than a year we have gained 102 twitter followers. On average the twitter page receives 8,700 impressions during the CaP awareness month in September the twitter page garnered over 14,000 impressions. Our videos on the ecancer platform have a combined global view of 341 representing countries such as the United States, Nigeria, Cameroon, United Kingdom, Macedonia, and Mexico. The American Legion Post 197 in North Jacksonville has served a cumulative of 229 people through outreach and educational event called lunch and learns. Our YouTube channel has had almost 100 views in its first month of being active. Conclusion: Using a multi-level approach to reduce the burden of CaP for Black men is vitally important; without such efforts the disparate thread in mortality will continue to persist. Meeting Black men through the mediums they use for gathering health information removes barriers, increases access and will aid in the fight against CaP for Black Men. Citation Format: Vinessa Gordon, Folakemi Odedina, Kimling Tam Ashing, Arnold Merriweather, Roxana Dronca, Che Ngufor, Solomon Rotimi, Ernest Kaninjing, Abimbola Odedina, John McCall, Anthony Hill, Ayinde Yahaya, Emmanuel Agboola. Fighting prostate cancer with a multimedia approach [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 818.