Factors Associated with Duration of Overall Treatment Time for Cervical Cancer Treated with Definitive Chemoradiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction For women with intact cervical cancer treated by definitive chemoradiotherapy, the adverse impact of treatment prolongation is well-established. We aimed to identify potentially modifiable factors associated with the unwanted increase in the time required to complete the prescribed course of therapy. Methods We retrospectively examined treatment records of 104 consecutive cervical cancer patients receiving chemoradiation for cervical cancer, which included cervical high-dose-rate intracavitary brachytherapy performed at a single referral center. Association of factors, including distance to care, driving time, and income level with overall treatment time, was explored. Results Guideline-concordant treatment duration was achieved in 34% of cases. There was no significant correlation between treatment duration and any of the patient-related characteristics assessed in this study. Transitioning of the radiation oncology physician staffing at the brachytherapy center from a private practice non-integrated group to a large integrated group was associated with a decrease in mean overall treatment time, 61 vs. 68 days, p = 0.007. Conclusions We did not identify a modifiable patient-related factor amenable to a financial intervention. Administration of brachytherapy within an integrated system resulted in a shortened duration of the entire course of therapy for intact cervical cancer.