Abstract PO3-27-08: Geographic Distribution and Accessibility of Clinical Trials for Advanced-Stage Breast Cancer in the United States: A Focus on Rural and Minority Health Disparities

Abstract Background: Our research examines the geographical distribution and accessibility of clinical trials for metastatic breast cancer patients in the U.S., spotlighting the challenges faced by rural communities and minority groups. Prior research indicated nearly half of these patients would have to commute over an hour to reach a trial site. 1 Our study provides a refreshed perspective on this issue, offering a more comprehensive analysis. Methods: Utilizing the ClinicalTrials.gov portal, we identified active interventional clinical trials for metastatic breast cancer patients as of November 25, 2022. We obtained distinct zip codes linked to these trials and, using 2020 census data, estimated the proportion of the U.S. populace residing within specific distances from these sites. Our analysis encompassed ethnicity, and other socio-economic parameters. Using GIS software, we also developed illustrative maps to visually represent the U.S. clinical trial accessibility landscape. Results: The majority of Americans diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer have clinical trials within their reach. A significant 81.8% of the U.S. populace resides within a 30-mile radius of a relevant clinical trial site. However, there is significant variation among ethnic groups, especially among American Indians, where 56.5% live within 30 miles of a clinical trial site. Conclusions: While a commendable 81.8% of the U.S. population resides within 30 miles of a metastatic breast cancer clinical trial site, our data underscores the uneven geographical spread of these trials. Our findings underscore the need for strategic initiatives to ensure clinical trials are within reach for every individual, irrespective of their location or background. Reference: 1. Galsky MD, Stensland KD, McBride RB, Latif A, Moshier E, Oh WK, Wisnivesky J. Geographic accessibility to clinical trials for advanced cancer in the United States. JAMA Intern Med. 2015 Feb;175(2):293-5. PMID: 25437434. Map of 30-, 60-, and 120-mile buffers from clinical trial sites open to patients with metastatic breast cancer. The U.S. Population living withing 30-, 60-, and 120-miles of an open clinical trial site for patients with metastatic breast cancer. Citation Format: Emily Westergard, Abigail Swenson, Zachary Schroeder, Wade Swenson. Geographic Distribution and Accessibility of Clinical Trials for Advanced-Stage Breast Cancer in the United States: A Focus on Rural and Minority Health Disparities abstract. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-27-08.