Racial Disparities in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia | Adam Kittai, MD | ASCO 2023

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07/08/23

Interview with Adam Kittai, MD from The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
at ASCO 2023. Filmed June 3rd, 2023.

Dr. Kittai discusses a population-based research study that explores racial disparities in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The study utilizes the Flatiron Health database to evaluate the impact of race on treatment outcomes, specifically focusing on the use of small molecule inhibitors. The current analysis reveals that black patients continue to fare worse than white patients, despite receiving small molecule inhibitors. Multivariable analysis confirms black race as an independent prognostic variable for worse overall survival. The study also highlights an interaction between age and black race, with younger black patients experiencing particularly poor survival outcomes. Factors such as delayed clinic visits, higher rates of adverse prognostic markers, and potential access-to-care issues may contribute to these disparities. Dr. Kittai emphasizes the need for further research to better comprehend the reasons behind these racial disparities in CLL and to address systemic issues that impact treatment outcomes.

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