Research Supplements for Underrepresented Minorities

Grant #: R01 CA 94827
PI Name: Kathleen R. Ell
Student: Kathleen Sanchez
Title: Minority Supplement: Improving Patient Adherence to Cancer Treatment

Through this Minority Supplement, Dr. Sanchez will investigate the relationship between depression, cancer treatment adherence and subsequent work re-entry experiences among low-income minority women. Under the guidance of her mentor, Dr. Sanchez will use these data and experience to develop a K01 proposal.

The proposed research activities will be based on a conceptual framework that utilizes demographic, social, psychological, medical, and work characteristics to better understand the barriers to work re-entry and treatment adherence. Data from women diagnosed with breast and gynecological cancer will be collected through interviews conducted by trained, bilingual staff. A 15-minute, follow-up interview will be conducted at six-months following the schedule of the parent grant.

The key constructs to be measured will include but not limited to, socio-demographic and cultural factors not measured by parent grant, employment characteristics such as employment status in the past 12-months, occupation and length of employment. Caregiving and family demands will be assessed using a standardized instrument. Medical characteristics such as preexisting co-morbidity, body mass index and other treatment factors will be collected. Cultural-specific, alternative medicine therapies will be identified and measured.

*Information on the parent project: Ell, 1R01CA094827-1