ArticleEpidemiology and health2025
The delayed cancer treatment and economic inequality in Korea: results of common cancers by the time-to-surgery.
Article in Epidemiology and health, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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1 citing paper in PubMed.
- Statin Initiation and Mortality After Colorectal Cancer Treatment.JAMA network open · 2026Article
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4 authors.
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Abstract
objectivesGrowing concerns regarding the concentration of cancer treatment in the capital city in Korea have raised questions about equitable access to timely and optimal patient care. In this study, we evaluated the impact of time-to-surgery (TTS) on healthcare utilization and outcomes, with the goal of providing policy recommendations for effective quality assessment of cancer care.
methodsThis retrospective cohort study analyzed data from 2011 to 2021 obtained from National Health Insurance Service claims. A generalized estimating equation and a Cox proportional hazards model were applied to assess the effects of TTS on length of stay (LOS), medical costs, and 5-year mortality among patients diagnosed with lung, liver, and colorectal cancers. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on patients' baseline economic status.
resultsAmong patients who underwent surgical treatment for lung, liver, or colorectal cancer, 20.4%, 11.4%, and 11.4% experienced treatment delays, respectively. Regardless of cancer type, longer TTS was associated with prolonged LOS and higher medical costs. Moreover, patients with extended TTS demonstrated an increased risk of 5-year mortality. Disparities by income level were evident, with greater differences observed in the lower-income group.
conclusionsThis study highlights the importance of timely surgical treatment for patients with cancer, particularly in relation to income-based disparities. These findings emphasize the need to improve Korea's concentrated cancer care delivery system to enhance healthcare efficiency and address health literacy gaps affecting treatment by income level.
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