Overview
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 85% of all cases. Advances in cancer treatment have led to the development of targeted therapies (TT), which are designed to specifically attack cancer cells with certain genetic mutations. For patients with metastatic NSCLC (mNSCLC), these targeted treatments have shown significant improvements in outcomes. The approval of these treatments for first-line (1L) use in recent years has provided new hope for patients whose tumors harbor actionable driver oncogenes (ADO) like ALK, BRAF, EGFR, MET, NTRK, RET, and ROS-1.
This study aimed to investigate whether all subpopulations of mNSCLC patients with these specific genetic mutations receive equitable access to the recommended first-line targeted treatments in routine clinical practice in the United States.
Why this matters
The significance of this study lies in its focus on equitable access to advanced treatments for mNSCLC patients with ADOs. By examining the factors influencing the receipt of first-line targeted therapies, the research identifies areas where disparities persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Ensuring that all patients have access to these advanced treatments, regardless of their background, can lead to better outcomes and enhance overall healthcare equity.