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

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.

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.

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.

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

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