Equity in Efficacy: Patient-Intrinsic Disparities in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Immunotherapy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.3744Keywords:
Obesity, Biological Sex, Oncology, Obesity paradox, Non-small cell lung cancer, Immune checkpoint inhibitors, Literature review, ImmunotherapyAbstract
While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment, patient responses can vary widely. This suggests that patient-intrinsic factors may play a critical role in determining therapeutic outcomes. This review will examine how patient-intrinsic factors, such as obesity and biological sex, can influence the effectiveness of ICI efficacy in NSCLC. Data on NSCLC patient characteristics, treatment type, and outcomes were extracted and synthesised by categorizing the data into themes of obesity or biological sex. Findings indicate that obesity may enhance ICI efficacy in patients with preserved skeletal muscle mass, demonstrating the “obesity paradox.” At the same time, biological sex influences tumour characteristics and drug metabolism through sex-specific hormones, contributing to differences in treatment response. These insights suggest that both obesity and biological sex are critical determinants of ICI outcomes. Incorporating these factors into clinical trial design and personalised treatment strategies may improve patient survival, reduce treatment disparities, and lead to equitable healthcare.
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