Characteristics and management of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cases in New Brunswick

Abstract

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) represents a growing clinical and epidemiological concern in New Brunswick, characterized by rising incidence and increasing healthcare resource needs. Using linked administrative health data and clinical chart information, this study provides the first population-level analysis of DLBCL in the province, examining epidemiology, treatment pathways, survival outcomes, and healthcare utilization from 2006 to 2021. The study characterized all DLBCL cases identified in the province from 1992 to 2021 and examined treatment pathways and 5-year outcomes for a cohort diagnosed between 2006 and 2018.

Findings show that while there is increasing incidence and prevalence of DLBCL in the province, there is also strong adherence to guideline-recommended R-CHOP therapy, and survival outcomes comparable to international benchmarks. Patients receiving non-R-CHOP regimens exhibited higher mortality risk, likely reflecting underlying disease severity or contraindications to standard treatment. Healthcare utilization was substantial, with high rates of hospitalization and ICU admission. The results establish foundational baseline data to support future real-world evidence studies and to inform policy and practice decisions for DLBCL care in New Brunswick.