Socioeconomic status and diagnosis, treatment, and mortality in men with prostate cancer. Nationwide population-based study

Abstract

Patients with high socioeconomic status (SES) have better cancer outcomes than patients with low SES. This has also been shown in Sweden, a country with tax-financed health care aiming to provide care on equal terms to all residents.

The association between income and educational level and diagnostics and treatment as outlined in national guidelines as well as prostate cancer (Pca) and all-cause mortality was assessed in 74,643 men by use of data in the National Prostate Cancer Register of Sweden and a number of other health care registers and demographic databases.

In multivariable logistic regression analysis, men with high income had higher probability of Pca detected in a health-check-up, top vs. bottom income quartile, odds ratio (OR) 1.60 (95% CI 1.45-1.77) and lower probability of waiting more than 3 months for prostatectomy, OR 0.77 (0.69-0.86). Men with the highest incomes also had higher probability of curative treatment for intermediate and high-risk cancer, OR 1.77 (1.61-1.95) and lower risk of positive margins, (incomplete resection) at prostatectomy, OR 0.80 (0.71-0.90). Similar, but weaker associations were observed for educational level. At six years of follow-up, Pca mortality was modestly lower for men with high income, which was statistically significant for localized high-risk and metastatic Pca in men with no comorbidities. All-cause mortality was less than half in top vs. bottom quartile of income (12% vs. 30%, p<0.001) among men above age 65. Our findings underscore the importance of adherence to guidelines to ensure optimal and equal care for all patients diagnosed with cancer. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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