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The impact of structural racism and social determinants of health on fluorescence in situ hybridization testing among patients with multiple myeloma

Published

November 2024

Citation

Pierre A, Ho G, Mbah O, Wang J, Ryals C; The impact of structural racism and social determinants of health on fluorescence in situ hybridization testing among patients with multiple myeloma. Presented at ASH Annual Meeting; December 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. 2024.

 

Overview

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) testing is commonly used to guide prognostication, treatment decision-making, and eligibility for biomarker-driven clinical trial participation for patients with multiple myeloma (MM). However, structural racism and social deprivation have been linked to poor access to biomarker testing. This study examined the impact of structural racism and social determinants of health (SDOH) on FISH testing in patients with MM. 

Using the nationwide Flatiron Health electronic health record-derived, de-identified database, this study observed lower rates of FISH testing among patients with MM living in neighborhoods with higher rates of limited English proficiency and lower rates of vehicle ownership. Findings from this study indicate that efforts aimed at addressing SDOH factors, particularly language and transportation barriers, should be prioritized to advance equity in FISH testing among patients with MM. 

Why this matters

As increasing diversity in clinical trials remains a priority, research identifying potential opportunities to increase equity in clinical trial participation is critical. Given the prerequisite of FISH testing in determining eligibility for biomarker-driven MM trials, the findings from this study offer actionable guidance for specific SDOH factors that may have improved equity in MM clinical trials. 

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