Addressing Health Disparities: A Community-Based Study on the Impact of Race and Socioeconomic Factors on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients

Ontada, a data science company owned by McKesson, has conducted a real-world study to investigate the impact of race and socioeconomic factors on patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The study analyzed data from over 12,000 CLL patients from 2015 to 2023, during which time new and effective therapies such as Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, BCL2 inhibitors, and antibodies were introduced.

The research aimed to explore how social determinants of health can influence patient outcomes beyond medical treatments. The study utilized the iKnowMed electronic health record system part of the US Oncology Network, which is a network of community oncologists in the country. By examining data from a large and geographically diverse database over an 8-year period, researchers identified trends in CLL treatment and outcomes.

Ira Zackon, MD, a hematologist/oncologist with New York Oncology Hematology and senior medical director at Ontada discussed this research during an interview. According to Dr. Zackon, “The study highlights the importance of considering social determinants of health when treating patients with CLL in community oncology settings.” He emphasizes that while advancements in medical treatments have significantly improved patient outcomes for CLL patients, there is still much work to be done to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes due to social factors such as race and socioeconomic status.