Ontada Reveals Significant Racial Disparities in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Diagnoses at ASCO 2025

Ontada, a leader in real-world oncology data and insights, revealed compelling findings from its recent study during a pivotal oral presentation at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. The study, "Real-world Social Determinants of Health and Outcomes of Early-onset Colorectal Cancer," provides significant insights into the socio-economic factors affecting early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) patients, particularly highlighting racial disparities. Key Data Findings: The study analyzed over 104,000 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, including nearly 15,000 with early-onset CRC, defined as diagnosis before the age of 50. Results showed that Black and Hispanic patients have a 30% higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced-stage EO-CRC compared to their White counterparts. This disparity emphasizes the critical need to address social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, and environmental factors, to improve EO-CRC outcomes. Jessica K. Paulus, ScD, senior director of Real-World Research at Ontada, highlighted the importance of these findings, stating, "By understanding and intervening on social determinants of health, we can drive meaningful changes in clinical practice and policy, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes." The data was sourced from iKnowMed, an oncology-specific electronic health record system, and the study used Kaplan-Meier methods to assess overall survival (OS) from the time of diagnosis. Study Methodology: The retrospective observational cohort study included adult CRC patients treated within The US Oncology Network and non-Network practices, involving over 2,700 community-based providers who annually treat more than 1.4 million patients. Patients were categorized based on their age at first diagnosis, with those under 50 classified as EO-CRC and the rest as average-onset CRC. Detailed patient characteristics were compiled and analyzed, providing a robust dataset for researchers and clinicians. Other Research at ASCO 2025: In addition to the EO-CRC study, Ontada is presenting 12 accepted abstracts at ASCO 2025, covering a range of topics from leveraging large language models for cancer data extraction to accelerated Phase 2 clinical development using real-world data in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Other notable research includes validating real-world event-free survival in early-stage triple-negative breast cancer, analyzing outcomes for BRAF-mutated melanoma patients, and offering a descriptive epidemiology of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia. Christine Davis, president of Ontada, emphasized the company's commitment to transforming cancer care, stating, "Our extensive research at ASCO 2025 underscores our dedication to driving meaningful advancements in oncology. We are committed to using real-world data and insights to highlight the critical role of this evidence in improving patient outcomes." McKesson's Role in Oncology: McKesson Corporation, Ontada's parent company, has a broad portfolio of oncology businesses and partners aimed at addressing the complexities in cancer care. McKesson, along with The US Oncology Network, Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), and other affiliated entities, supports the development and accessibility of new cancer treatments. For instance, McKesson fuels clinical trial participation through its joint venture with SCRI, ensuring patients can access cutting-edge therapies closer to home. The US Oncology Network and McKesson Provider Solutions advance high-quality cancer care in community settings by supporting independent providers. Ontada contributes by generating real-world data (RWD) and real-world evidence (RWE), and providing clinical education and technology solutions. Additionally, McKesson ensures the distribution of oncology and specialty medicines, and through services like CoverMyMeds, Biologics by McKesson, and GPO, helps patients access, afford, and adhere to their treatments. Industry insiders and healthcare professionals have praised Ontada's comprehensive approach to leveraging real-world data to identify and address disparities in cancer care. By focusing on social determinants, Ontada aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access and quality, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and more equitable care. This research not only contributes to the scientific understanding of EO-CRC but also serves as a call to action for healthcare providers and policymakers to implement strategies that address these systemic issues. Ontada's commitment to advancing oncology through data-driven insights places it at the forefront of the industry, offering valuable tools and information for all major global life sciences companies. The company's integrated solutions and collaborative efforts with McKesson and other partners demonstrate a holistic approach to improving cancer care, making significant strides in a field that continues to evolve rapidly.