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Journal of Cancer Survivorship

Published in:

01-04-2016

Gender differences in cost-related medication non-adherence among cancer survivors

Authors: Minjee Lee, M. Mahmud Khan

Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship | Issue 2/2016

Abstract

Purpose

It has been reported that cancer survivors are delaying or avoiding necessary care due to costs. Medication non-adherence is one of the important aspects of deferred treatment. This study estimates the prevalence of cost-related medication non-adherence (CRN) by gender and factors associated with CRN among cancer survivors.

Methods

Using 2006–2013 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), we examined self-reported CRN among cancer survivors by gender. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression models were used to examine gender differences in CRN.

Results

In a nationally representative sample of 15,159 cancer survivors, 7.4 % of male and 12.5 % of female reported CRN. Overall, the prevalence of CRN was found to be the highest for uninsured group and the lowest for Medicare, but gender differences persist for all insurance types, including Medicare. After controlling for relevant covariates, female cancer survivors were 27 % more likely (odds ratio (OR) = 1.27, confidence intervals (CI), 1.06–1.53) than male to report CRN. With higher number of comorbidities and activity limitations, CRN rates tend to increase for both male and female cancer survivors.

Conclusions

Significant gender differences in CRN were found among cancer survivors after controlling for differences in sociodemographic, health status, and insurance coverage.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Given the rapid increase in prescription drug costs, it is important to monitor closely the CRN in high-risk subgroups.

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Title: Gender differences in cost-related medication non-adherence among cancer survivors
Authors: Minjee Lee
M. Mahmud Khan
Publication date: 01-04-2016
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship / Issue 2/2016
Print ISSN: 1932-2259
Electronic ISSN: 1932-2267
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-015-0484-5

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Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Implications for Cancer Survivors

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