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Boulanger MC, Falade AS, Hsu K, Sommer RK, Zhou A, Sarathy R, Lawrence D, Sullivan RJ, Traeger L, Greer JA, Temel JS, Petrillo LA. Patient and Caregiver Experience With the Hope and Prognostic Uncertainty of Immunotherapy: A Qualitative Study. JCO Oncol Pract 2024:OP2400299. [PMID: 39038253 DOI: 10.1200/op.24.00299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunotherapy has improved survival for patients with melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Yet, as responses vary widely, immunotherapy also introduces challenges in prognostic communication. In this study, we sought to explore how patients and caregivers learned about the goal of immunotherapy and their experience of living with uncertainty. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a qualitative study of patients with stage III or IV melanoma or stage IV NSCLC within 12 weeks of initiating or 12 months of discontinuing immunotherapy, and their caregivers. We conducted in-depth interviews with participants to explore how they learned about immunotherapy from oncology clinicians and how they experienced uncertainty. We used a framework approach to analyze interview transcripts and synthesized concepts into themes. RESULTS Forty-two patients and 10 caregivers participated; median age was 67 years and most were male (68%), white (95%), married (61%), and had melanoma (62%). We identified four themes: (1) the oncology team shaped participants' hopeful expectations of immunotherapy, including as a potential cure among those with melanoma; (2) distress related to prognostic uncertainty particularly affected patients who experienced toxicity or progressive disease; (3) patients who did not have long-term responses experienced overwhelming disappointment; and (4) some patients and caregivers had conflicting preferences for prognostic information. Participants provided suggestions to improve education and underscored unmet psychosocial needs. CONCLUSION Patients and caregivers held optimistic expectations of immunotherapy, which resulted in heightened disappointment among the subset with progression or toxicity. Clinicians should elicit information preferences of both patients and caregivers, as these may be disparate. Our results highlight the need to optimize prognostic communication and support for living with uncertainty among patients receiving immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C Boulanger
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Ayo S Falade
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital, Salem, MA
| | - Kelly Hsu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
| | - Robert K Sommer
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Ashley Zhou
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
- Columbia University Vagelos School of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - Roshni Sarathy
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Donald Lawrence
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Ryan J Sullivan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Lara Traeger
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Laura A Petrillo
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
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van der Velden NCA, Smets EMA, van Vliet LM, Brom L, van Laarhoven HWM, Henselmans I. Effects of Prognostic Communication Strategies on Prognostic Perceptions, Treatment Decisions and End-Of-Life Anticipation in Advanced Cancer: An Experimental Study among Analogue Patients. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024; 67:478-489.e13. [PMID: 38428696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.02.563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Evidence-based guidance for oncologists on how to communicate prognosis is scarce. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of prognostic communication strategies (prognostic disclosure vs. communication of unpredictability vs. non-disclosure; standard vs. standard and best-case vs. standard, best- and worst-case survival scenarios; numerical vs. word-based estimates) on prognostic perceptions, treatment decision-making and end-of-life anticipation in advanced cancer. METHODS This experimental study used eight videos of a scripted oncological consultation, varying only in prognostic communication strategies. Cancer-naive individuals, who imagined being the depicted patient, completed surveys before and after watching one video (n = 1036). RESULTS Individuals generally perceived dying within 1 year as more likely after prognostic disclosure, compared to communication of unpredictability or non-disclosure (P < 0.001), and after numerical versus word-based estimates (P < 0.001). Individuals felt better informed about prognosis to decide about treatment after prognostic disclosure, compared to communication of unpredictability or non-disclosure (P < 0.001); after communication of unpredictability versus non-disclosure (P < 0.001); and after numerical versus word-based estimates (P = 0.017). Chemotherapy was more often favored after prognostic disclosure versus non-disclosure (P = 0.010), but less often after numerical versus word-based estimates (P < 0.001). Individuals felt more certain about the treatment decision after prognostic disclosure, compared to communication of unpredictability or non-disclosure (P < 0.001). Effects of different survival scenarios were absent. No effects on end-of-life anticipation were observed. Evidence for moderating individual characteristics was limited. CONCLUSION If and how oncologists discuss prognosis can influence how individuals perceive prognosis, which treatment they prefer, and how they feel about treatment decisions. Communicating numerical estimates may stimulate prognostic understanding and informed treatment decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C A van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H., H.W.M.L.), Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H., H.W.M.L.), Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth M van Vliet
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology (L.M.V.), University of Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Brom
- Department of Research and Development (L.B.), Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands; Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL) (L.B.), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H., H.W.M.L.), Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology (H.W.M.L.), Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H.), Quality of Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S., I.H., H.W.M.L.), Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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3
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van der Velden NCA, Smets EMA, van Vliet LM, Brom L, van Laarhoven HWM, Henselmans I. Effects of prognostic communication strategies on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations: An experimental study in advanced cancer. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38533613 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate effects of prognostic communication strategies on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations in advanced cancer. METHODS For this experimental study, we created 8 videos of a scripted oncological consultation, only varying in prognostic communication strategies. Disease-naive individuals (n = 1036) completed surveys before and after watching 1 video, while imagining being the depicted cancer patient. We investigated effects of the type of disclosure (prognostic disclosure vs. communication of unpredictability vs. non-disclosure) and content of disclosure (standard vs. standard and best-case vs. standard, best- and worst-case survival scenarios; numerical vs. word-based estimates) on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations. Moderating effects of individual characteristics were tested. RESULTS Participants generally reported more satisfaction (p < .001) after prognostic disclosure versus communication of unpredictability and less uncertainty (p = .042), more satisfaction (p = .005), and more desirability (p = .016) regarding prognostic information after numerical versus word-based estimates. Effects of different survival scenarios were absent. Prognostic communication strategies lacked effects on emotions and coping. Significant moderators included prognostic information preference and uncertainty tolerance. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS In an experimental setting, prognostic disclosure does not cause more negative emotions than non-disclosure and numerical estimates are more strongly appreciated than words. Oncologists' worries about harming patients should not preclude disclosing (precise) prognostic information, yet sensitivity to individual preferences and characteristics remains pivotal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C A van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth M van Vliet
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, University of Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Brom
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ramchandani A, Mihic-Góngora L, Hernández R, Zafra-Poves M, Muñoz MM, Ferreira E, Cruz-Castellanos P, Fernández-Montes A, Pacheco-Barcia V, Jiménez-Fonseca P, Calderon C. Psychological factors and prognostic communication preferences in advanced cancer: multicentre study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e1342-e1350. [PMID: 37491146 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Communication regarding prognosis to patients with advanced cancer is fundamental for informed medical decision making. Our objective was to analyse (1) the proportion of subjects with advanced cancer who prefer to know their prognosis, (2) the characteristics associated with patients' preference for prognostic information, (3) the psychological factors that impact the preference to know prognosis and 4) the concordance between preference for prognostic information perceived among physicians and patients. METHODS A prospective, cross-sectional design was adopted. Data were collected from 748 participants with advanced cancer at 15 tertiary hospitals in Spain. Participants completed the following questionnaires: Mental Adjustment to Cancer; Trust in the Physician; Uncertainty in Illness Scale Patient's Prognostic Preferences. RESULTS Fifty-two per cent of advanced cancer sufferers preferred to know the prognosis of their disease. Compared with participants who preferred not to know, those who did reported more uncertainty, greater satisfaction with their physician and higher scores on positive attitude (all p=0.001). Thirty-seven per cent of the physicians believed that patients want to know their prognosis, indicating that they underestimate the number of such patients. No significant differences were found regarding preference to know prognosis as a function of sociodemographic and clinical variables. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of individuals with advanced cancer prefer to know the prognosis of their disease. It appears that knowing their prognosis was mainly motivated by a need to maintain a positive attitude, lessen uncertainty and by satisfaction with the physician. It is important to explore patients' preferences for information to offer more personalised communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Ramchandani
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Insular de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Luka Mihic-Góngora
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación del Principado de Asturias, ISPA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Raquel Hernández
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Canarias, Spain
| | - Marta Zafra-Poves
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital General Universitario José M Morales Meseguer, Murcia, Spain
| | - María M Muñoz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital General Virgen de la Luz, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Estrella Ferreira
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Ana Fernández-Montes
- Department of Medical Oncology, Complejo Hospitalario de Orense, Ourense, Galicia, Spain
| | - Vilma Pacheco-Barcia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Central de la Defensa Gomez Ulla, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Caterina Calderon
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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5
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van de Water LF, Bos–van den Hoek DW, Kuijper SC, van Laarhoven HWM, Creemers GJ, Dohmen SE, Fiebrich HB, Ottevanger PB, Sommeijer DW, de Vos FYF, Smets EMA, Henselmans I. Potential Adverse Outcomes of Shared Decision Making about Palliative Cancer Treatment: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial. Med Decis Making 2024; 44:89-101. [PMID: 37953598 PMCID: PMC10712204 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x231208448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While shared decision making (SDM) is advocated for ethical reasons and beneficial outcomes, SDM might also negatively affect patients with incurable cancer. The current study explored whether SDM, and an oncologist training in SDM, are associated with adverse outcomes (i.e., patient anxiety, tension, helplessness/hopelessness, decisional uncertainty, and reduced fighting spirit). DESIGN A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial investigating the effects of SDM interventions in the context of advanced cancer. The relations between observed SDM (OPTION12), specific SDM elements (4SDM), oncologist SDM training, and adverse outcomes were analyzed. We modeled adverse outcomes as a multivariate phenomenon, followed by univariate regressions if significant. RESULTS In total, 194 patients consulted by 31 oncologists were included. In a multivariate analysis, observed SDM and adverse outcomes were significantly related. More specifically, more observed SDM in the consultation was related to patients reporting more tension (P = 0.002) and more decisional uncertainty (P = 0.004) at 1 wk after the consultation. The SDM element "informing about the options" was especially found to be related to adverse outcomes, specifically to more helplessness/hopelessness (P = 0.002) and more tension (P = 0.016) at 1 wk after the consultation. Whether the patient consulted an oncologist who had received SDM training or not was not significantly related to adverse outcomes. No relations with long-term adverse outcomes were found. CONCLUSIONS It is important for oncologists to realize that for some patients, SDM may temporarily be associated with negative emotions. Further research is needed to untangle which, when, and how adverse outcomes might occur and whether and how burden may be minimized for patients. HIGHLIGHTS Observed shared decision making was related to more tension and uncertainty postconsultation in advanced cancer patientsHowever, training oncologists in SDM did not affect adverse outcomes.Further research is needed to untangle which, when, and how adverse outcomes might occur and how burden may be minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loïs F. van de Water
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Danique W. Bos–van den Hoek
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Steven C. Kuijper
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W. M. van Laarhoven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan Creemers
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catharina Ziekenhuis, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Serge E. Dohmen
- Department of Medical Oncology, BovenIJ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Petronella B. Ottevanger
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Filip Y. F. de Vos
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen M. A. Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Quality of Care, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Burgers VWG, Reuvers MJP, Taphoorn MJB, Kok M, de Langen AJ, van den Bent MJ, Frissen SAMM, Harthoorn NCGL, Dickhout A, Husson O, van der Graaf WTA. A qualitative study on the healthcare experiences of adolescents and young adults (AYA) with an uncertain or poor cancer prognosis. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:721. [PMID: 38008874 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08149-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment advancements have improved life expectancy for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with an uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis (UPCP) and change clinical practice. This improved survival requires a different approach and specific expertise to meet the needs of this group. The aim of this study is to explore the health care experiences of AYAs with a UPCP. METHODS We conducted a multicenter qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and elements of the grounded theory by Corbin and Strauss. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 46 AYAs with a UPCP. They were on average 33.4 years old (age range 23-44), and most of them were woman (63%). Additionally, five AYAs with a UPCP participated as AYA research partners in two focus groups. They were on average 31.8 years old and four of them were woman. AYAs with a UPCP reported four pillars for a satisfied healthcare experience: (1) trust, (2) tailored communication, (3) holistic empathic open attitude, and (4) care being offered (pro-)actively. They reported both optimal and suboptimal experiences about distrust based on a delay in diagnostic trajectory, lack of tailored communication and discussion of sensitive topics, preference for a holistic approach, and struggles with finding the way to get additional healthcare support. CONCLUSION For AYAs with a UPCP, it is important that both age-specific issues and issues related to the UPCP are understood and addressed; however, this seems not yet optimally implemented in clinical practice. This emphasizes the importance of providing this patient group with tailored care incorporating both aspects. Healthcare professionals need to be supported with training and tools to understand the healthcare needs of AYAs with a UPCP. AYAs can be empowered to take more control over their own healthcare needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian W G Burgers
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Milou J P Reuvers
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Marleen Kok
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Adrianus J de Langen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martin J van den Bent
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Annemiek Dickhout
- AYA Research Partner, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Internal Medicine, Division Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- GROW-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Perception of prognosis and health-related quality of life in patients with advanced cancer: results of a multicentre observational study (eQuiPe). Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:165. [PMID: 36781515 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess perception of prognosis in patients with advanced cancer, its association with patient's characteristics and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). METHODS In a multicentre observational cohort study (eQuiPe), conducted on patients with advanced cancer, perceived prognosis, coping strategies, and HRQoL were assessed. Clinical data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Patients with vs. without a perception of prognosis, patients who perceived their prognosis as limited (< 1 year) vs. longer (> 1 year), and patients who did not want to know their prognosis vs. those who did not know for other reasons were compared. RESULTS Of 1000 patients with advanced cancer, 29% perceived their prognosis as > 1 year, 13% < 1 year, and 4% non-life threatening. Thirty-six percent did not know their prognosis and another 15% did not want to know. Patients without a perception were older, lower educated, coped differently (less accepting, planning, active; more denial), and received treatment more often (p < 0.05). Global QoL was lower in patients with vs. without a perceived prognosis (66 (SD21) vs. 69 (SD19), p = 0.01), specifically in patients who perceived a limited rather than a longer prognosis (57 (SD22) vs. 70 (SD19), p < 0.01). Global QoL of patients who did not want to know their prognosis was comparable to patients who did not know for other reasons (71 (SD19) vs. 69 (SD19), p = 0.22). CONCLUSION More than half of the patients with advanced cancer have no perception of their prognosis. Patients with a perceived prognosis have lower HRQoL, but only in patients who perceived their prognosis as limited (< 1 year) and were probably closer to the end of life, which more likely determines their poorer HRQoL, rather than prognostic perception. Ignorance of prognosis is not associated with lower HRQoL, however, should not hamper appropriate palliative care.
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8
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van der Velden NCA, Smets EMA, Hagedoorn M, Applebaum AJ, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, van Laarhoven HWM, Henselmans I. Patient-Caregiver Dyads' Prognostic Information Preferences and Perceptions in Advanced Cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:442-455.e2. [PMID: 36731806 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Prognostic information is considered important for advanced cancer patients and primary informal caregivers to prepare for the end of life. Little is known about discordance in patients' and caregivers' prognostic information preferences and prognostic perceptions, while such discordance complicates adaptive dyadic coping, clinical interactions and care plans. OBJECTIVES To investigate the extent of patient-caregiver discordance in prognostic information preferences and perceptions, and the factors associated with discordant prognostic perceptions. METHODS We conducted secondary analyses of a cross-sectional study (PROSPECT, 2019-2021). Advanced cancer patients (median overall survival ≤12 months) from seven Dutch hospitals and caregivers completed structured surveys (n = 412 dyads). RESULTS Seven percent of patient-caregiver dyads had discordant information preferences regarding the likelihood of cure; 24%-25% had discordant information preferences regarding mortality risk (5/2/1 year). Seventeen percent of dyads had discordant perceptions of the likelihood of cure; 12%-25% had discordant perceptions of mortality risk (5/2/1 year). Dyads with discordant prognostic information preferences (P < 0.05) and dyads in which patients reported better physical functioning (P < 0.01) were significantly more likely to perceive the one-year mortality risk discordantly. CONCLUSION Physicians should be sensitive to discordant prognostic information preferences and prognostic perceptions among patient-caregiver dyads in advanced cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C A van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V, E.M.A.S, B.D.O-P, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, H.W.M.L, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V, E.M.A.S, B.D.O-P, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, H.W.M.L, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mariët Hagedoorn
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen (M.H), The Netherlands
| | - Allison J Applebaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (A.J.A), New York, New York, USA
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V, E.M.A.S, B.D.O-P, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Public and Occupational Health, Expertise Center for Palliative Care, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (B.D.O-P, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, H.W.M.L, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam (H.W.M.L), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health (N.C.A.V, E.M.A.S, B.D.O-P, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam (N.C.A.V., E.M.A.S, H.W.M.L, I.H.), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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9
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Burgers VWG, van den Bent MJ, Rietjens JAC, Roos DC, Dickhout A, Franssen SA, Noordoek MJ, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. "Double awareness"-adolescents and young adults coping with an uncertain or poor cancer prognosis: A qualitative study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1026090. [PMID: 36591063 PMCID: PMC9795247 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1026090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adolescents and young adults with an uncertain or poor cancer prognosis (UPCP) are confronted with ongoing and unique age-specific challenges, which forms an enormous burden. To date, little is known about the way AYAs living with a UPCP cope with their situation. Therefore, this study explores how AYAs with a UPCP cope with the daily challenges of their disease. Method We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews among AYAs with a UPCP. Patients of the three AYA subgroups were interviewed (traditional survivors, new survivors, low-grade glioma survivors), since we expected different coping strategies among these subgroups. Interviews were analyzed using elements of the Grounded Theory by Corbin and Strauss. AYA patients were actively involved as research partners. Results In total 46 AYAs with UPCP participated, they were on average 33.4 years old (age range 23-44) and most of them were woman (63%). Most common tumor types were low-grade gliomas (16), sarcomas (7), breast cancers (6) and lung cancers (6). We identified seven coping strategies in order to reduce the suffering from the experienced challenges: (1) minimizing impact of cancer, (2) taking and seeking control, (3) coming to terms, (4) being positive, (5) seeking and receiving support, (6) carpe diem and (7) being consciously alive. Conclusion This study found seven coping strategies around the concept of 'double awareness' and showcases that AYAs are able to actively cope with their disease but prefer to actively choose life over illness. The findings call for CALM therapy and informal AYA support meetings to support this group to cope well with their disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian W. G. Burgers
- Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology Department, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Judith A. C. Rietjens
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Daniëlle C. Roos
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemiek Dickhout
- Internal Medicine, Division Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands,GROW-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands,AYA Research Partner, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology Department, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Olga Husson,
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10
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Vromans RD, Hommes S, Clouth FJ, Lo-Fo-Wong DNN, Verbeek XAAM, van de Poll-Franse L, Pauws S, Krahmer E. Need for numbers: assessing cancer survivors' needs for personalized and generic statistical information. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:260. [PMID: 36199092 PMCID: PMC9535944 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-02005-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Statistical information (e.g., on long-term survival or side effects) may be valuable for healthcare providers to share with their patients to facilitate shared decision making on treatment options. In this pre-registered study, we assessed cancer survivors’ need for generic (population-based) versus personalized (tailored towards patient/tumor characteristics) statistical information after their diagnosis. We examined how information coping style, subjective numeracy, and anxiety levels of survivors relate to these needs and identified statistical need profiles. Additionally, we qualitatively explored survivors’ considerations for (not) wanting statistical information. Methods Cancer survivors’ need for statistics regarding incidence, survival, recurrence, side effects and quality of life were assessed with an online questionnaire. For each of these topics, survivors were asked to think back to their first cancer diagnosis and to indicate their need for generic and personalized statistics on a 4-point scale (‘not at all’- ‘very much’). Associations between information coping style, subjective numeracy, and anxiety with need for generic and personalized statistics were examined with Pearson’s correlations. Statistical need profiles were identified using latent class analysis. Considerations for (not) wanting statistics were analyzed qualitatively. Results Overall, cancer survivors (n = 174) had a higher need for personalized than for generic statistics (p < .001, d = 0.74). Need for personalized statistics was associated with higher subjective numeracy (r = .29) and an information-seeking coping style (r = .41). Three statistical need profiles were identified (1) a strong need for both generic and personalized statistics (34%), (2) a stronger need for personalized than for generic statistics (55%), and (3) a little need for both generic and personalized statistics (11%). Considerations for wanting personalized cancer statistics ranged from feelings of being in control to making better informed decisions about treatment. Considerations for not wanting statistics related to negative experience with statistics and to the unpredictability of future events for individual patients. Conclusions In light of the increased possibilities for using personalized statistics in clinical practice and decision aids, it appears that most cancer survivors want personalized statistical information during treatment decision-making. Subjective numeracy and information coping style seem important factors influencing this need. We encourage further development and implementation of data-driven personalized decision support technologies in oncological care to support patients in treatment decision making. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12911-022-02005-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben D Vromans
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands. .,Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Saar Hommes
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Felix J Clouth
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Statistics and Methodology, Tilburg School of Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Deborah N N Lo-Fo-Wong
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xander A A M Verbeek
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke van de Poll-Franse
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg School of Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steffen Pauws
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Collaborative Care Solutions, Philips Research, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Emiel Krahmer
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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