Evaluation of electronic patient-reported outcome assessment in inpatient cancer care: a feasibility study

PURPOSE

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures are increasingly important in evaluating medical care. The increased integration of technology within the healthcare systems allows for collection of PROs electronically. The objectives of this study were to Ashley et al. J Med Internet Res (2013) implement an electronic assessment of PROs in inpatient cancer care and test its feasibility for patients and Dawson et al. BMJ (2010) determine the equivalence of the paper and electronic assessment.

METHODS

We analyzed two arms from a study that was originally designed to be an interventional, three-arm, and multicenter inpatient trial. A self-administered questionnaire based on validated PRO-measures was applied and completed at admission, 1 week after, and at discharge. For this analysis - focusing on feasibility of the electronic assessment - the following groups will be considered: Group A (intervention arm) received a tablet version, while group B (control arm) completed the questionnaire on paper. A feasibility questionnaire, that was adapted from Ashley et al. J Med Internet Res (2013), was administered to group A.

RESULTS

We analyzed 103 patients that were recruited in oncology wards. ePRO was feasible to most patients, with 84% preferring the electronic over paper-based assessment. The feasibility questionnaire contained questions that were answered on a scale ranging from "1" (illustrating non achievement) to "5" (illustrating achieving goal). The majority (mean 4.24, SD .99) reported no difficulties handling the electronic tool and found it relatively easy finding time for filling out the questionnaire (mean 4.15, SD 1.05). There were no significant differences between the paper and the electronic assessment regarding the PROs.

CONCLUSION

Results indicate that electronic PRO assessment in inpatient cancer care is feasible.

Health related Quality of Life over time in German sarcoma patients. An analysis of associated factors - results of the PROSa study

Introduction

Sarcomas are rare cancers and very heterogeneous in their location, histological subtype, and treatment. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of sarcoma patients has rarely been investigated in longitudinal studies.

Methods

Here, we assessed adult sarcoma patients and survivors between September 2017 and February 2020, and followed-up for one year in 39 study centers in Germany. Follow-up time points were 6 (t1) and 12 months (t2) after inclusion. We used a standardized, validated questionnaire (the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core Instrument (EORTC QLQ-C30) and explored predictors of HRQoL in two populations (all patients (Analysis 1), patients in ongoing complete remission (Analysis 2)) using generalized linear mixed models.

Results

In total we included up to 1111 patients at baseline (915 at t1, and 847 at t2), thereof 387 participants were in complete remission at baseline (334 at t1, and 200 at t2). When analyzing all patients, HRQoL differed with regard to tumor locations: patients with sarcoma in lower extremities reported lower HRQoL values than patients with sarcomas in the upper extremities. Treatment which included radiotherapy and/or systemic therapy was associated with lower HRQoL. For patients in complete remission, smoking was associated with worse HRQoL-outcomes. In both analyses, bone sarcomas were associated with the worst HRQoL values. Being female, in the age group 55-<65 years, having lower socioeconomic status, and comorbidities were all associated with a lower HRQoL, in both analyses.

Discussion

HRQoL increased partially over time since treatment and with sporting activities. HRQoL improved with time since treatment, although not in all domains, and was associated with lifestyle and socioeconomic factors. Bone sarcomas were the most affected subgroup. Methods to preserve and improve HRQoL should be developed for sarcoma patients.

[Impact of Oncological Treatment on Perceived Stigmatization - A Register-Based Study]

BACKGROUND

Studies on stigmatization of cancer patients show a moderate or high relevance of perceived stigmatization. To date, there are no studies with explicit focus on stigma in relation to oncological therapy. We investigated the role of oncological therapy on perceived stigma in a large sample.

METHODS

Quantitative data from 770 patients (47,4% women; 88%≥50 years) with breast, colorectal, lung, or prostate cancer were analyzed as part of a registry-based bicentric study. Stigma was assessed with the German version of the SIS-D; the validated instrument includes four subscales in addition to a total score. Data were analyzed using the t-test and multiple regression with various sociodemographic and medical predictors.

RESULTS

Of the 770 cancer patients, 367 (47,7%) received chemotherapy, possibly in combination with other therapy (surgery, radiotherapy). All stigma scales showed significant mean differences (effect sizes up to d=0,49) with higher scores for patients receiving chemotherapy. The multiple regression analyses of the respective SIS-scales demonstrate a significant influence of the variables age (ß≤- 0,266) and depressivity (ß≤0,627) on perceived stigma in all five models, and (in four models) a significant influence of the variable chemotherapy (ß≤0,140). Radiotherapy shows only a weak influence in all models and surgery has no relevance. The explained variance ranges from R2=27 to 46,5%.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The findings support the assumption of an association of oncological therapy, especially chemotherapy, on the perceived stigmatization of cancer patients. Relevant predictors are depression and younger (<50) age. These (vulnerable) groups should therefore receive special attention and psycho-oncological care in clinical practice. Further research on the course and mechanisms of therapy-related stigmatization is also necessary.

Developing tumor-specific PRO-CTCAE item sets: analysis of a cross-sectional survey in three German outpatient cancer centers

BACKGROUND

To include the patient perspective in the assessment of adverse events in oncology, a patient-reported outcomes (PRO) version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) was developed by the US National Cancer Institute, the so called PRO-CTCAE. The objective of this study was the development of disease-specific PRO-CTCAE item sets for patients with breast cancer (BC), multiple myeloma (MM), and prostate cancer (PC).

METHODS

The cross-sectional survey was conducted at three German outpatient cancer centers. Prevalence and importance of the 78 PRO-CTCAE symptoms were assessed using a patient questionnaire. To select the most relevant PRO-CTCAE items for each tumor entity, symptoms were ranked based on patient answers.

RESULTS

101 patients with BC, 107 with MM, and 66 with PC participated. The final item sets contained 21 symptoms (BC) or 19 symptoms (MM and PC), respectively. Eight symptoms (fatigue, muscle pain, insomnia, joint pain, general pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and swelling) were represented in all three item sets. Fatigue was the symptom with the highest ranking across item sets followed by insomnia. Symptoms with the highest rankings represented in only one item set were symptoms affecting the urogenital system in the PC item set, blurred vision in the BC item set, and decreased appetite in the MM item set.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual PRO-CTCAE item sets for a German patient population were developed for the three tumor entities on the basis of patients' differences in symptom profiles and perceptions. The quality and psychometric criteria of the newly compiled item sets should be evaluated in validation studies.

A post hoc analysis of the EPAZ trial: The role of geriatric variables in elderly soft tissue sarcoma patients on toxicity and outcome

OBJECTIVE

The EPAZ study (NCT01861951) showed recently that pazopanib was non-inferior to doxorubicin in patients ≥60 years treated in first line for advanced soft tissue sarcoma . The current post-hoc analysis aimed to assess the prognostic impact of frailty.

METHODS

Geriatric assessments were evaluated at baseline. Age >75 years, liposarcoma, ECOG = 2, G8 ≤14, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) ≥1 and Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2 were tested for their impact on progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), CTCAE grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs (SAEs), using univariate and multivariate analysis models.

RESULTS

univariate analysis showed an increased risk of grade 3/4 AEs and SAEs for ECOG = 2, G8 score ≤14 or IADL ≥1, independent of treatment. The multivariate analysis exhibited for pazopanib a significantly reduced risk for grade 3/4 AEs (HR 0.53; p = 0.033), and in patients with G8 ≤14 an increased risk for SAEs (HR 2.67; p = 0.011). In the multivariate analysis, G8 ≤14 was a negative prognostic factor for PFS (HR 1.82; p = 0.009) and IADL ≥1 for OS (HR 2.02; p = 0.007). ECOG = 2 was the strongest negative predictor for PFS (HR 4.39; p = 0.001) and OS (HR 3.74; p = 0.004). Neither age nor Charlson Comorbidity Index showed any impact on PFS, OS, incidence of grade 3/4 AEs or SAEs.

CONCLUSIONS

This post hoc analysis demonstrated that age is not a denominator for outcome or toxicity in elderly patients with soft tissue sarcoma . Instead, geriatric and functional assessments should be used to counsel patients and tailor therapy to individual needs. Moreover, pazopanib has a reduced risk for grade 3/4 AEs compared to doxorubicin.

Electronic Patient Reported Outcome (ePRO) Measures in Patients with Soft Tissue Sarcoma (STS) Receiving Palliative Treatment

The PazoQoL prospective, randomized, controlled, multicenter study was designed to continuously assess global health related quality of life (HRQoL) during treatment with pazopanib or physician-preferred chemotherapy over a 9-week period. The questionnaires were completed by the patients at home with great reliability during this time period. Continuous electronic patient reported outcome (ePRO) enabled early detection of the onset of deterioration and timely initiation of countermeasures. The Cancer Therapy Satisfaction Questionnaire (CTSQ) showed high interindividual variability and decline over a 9-week period, whereas the Time Trade-off (TTO) proved to be an efficient method for assessing individual benefit from cancer therapy. In our cohort, the TTO clearly demonstrated that the prolongation of life and the side effect profile of continued therapy were not as satisfactory as expected by patients when starting a new therapy. Although the study had to be stopped early due to the pandemic, our findings could translate into clinical practice without much effort and outside of a trial.

Working situation and burden of work limitations in sarcoma patients: results from the multi-center prospective PROSa study

PURPOSE

We investigated predictors of limitations in work performance, odds of drop out of work, and odds of receiving disability pension in sarcoma patients.

METHODS

We measured clinical and sociodemographic data in adult sarcoma patients and recorded if the patients received a (1) disability pension at baseline or (2) had dropped out of work 1 year after initial assessment. (3) Work limitations were assessed using the Work-limitations questionnaire (WLQ^©). We analyzed exploratively.

RESULTS

(1) Amongst 364 analyzed patients, odds to receive a disability pension were higher in patients with abdominal tumors, older patients, high grade patients and with increasing time since diagnosis. (2) Of 356 patients employed at baseline, 21% (n = 76) had dropped out of work after 1 year. The odds of dropping out of work were higher in bone sarcoma patients and in patients who received additive radiotherapy ± systemic therapy compared with patients who received surgery alone. Odds of dropping out of work were less amongst self-employed patients and dropped with increasing time since diagnosis. (3) Work limitations were higher in woman and increased with age. Patients with bone and fibrous sarcomas were more affected than liposarcoma patients. Patients with abdominal tumors reported highest restrictions. Sarcoma treatment in the last 6 months increased work limitations.

CONCLUSION

Work limitations, drop out of work and dependence on a disability pension occurs frequently in patients with sarcoma adding to the burden of this condition. We were able to identify vulnerable groups in both the socioeconomic and disease categories.

Distress in soft-tissue sarcoma and GIST patients -Results of a German multicentre observational study (PROSa)

OBJECTIVE

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) are a group of rare malignant tumours with a high and heterogenous disease burden. As evidence is lacking, we aimed to determine the prevalence of increased emotional distress and to identify associated factors in these patients.

METHODS

The PROSa-study (Burden and medical care of sarcoma) was conducted between 2017 and 2020 in 39 study centres. Cross-sectional data from adult STS and GIST patients were analysed. Distress was measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4). The relation of socioeconomic and clinical factors with distress was explored in adjusted logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Among 897 patients, prevalence of elevated anxiety and depression was 17% resp. 19%. Unemployed patients (odds ratio (OR) 6.6 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.9-15.0)) and those with a disability pension (OR 3.1 (95% CI 1.9-5.0)) were more likely to experience distress (vs. employed patients). Patients with a disability pass (vs. none) had higher odds of increased distress (OR 1.8 (95% CI 1.2-2.7)). Lowest distress was observed in patients 2-<5 years and ≥5 years after diagnosis (comparison: <6 months) (OR 0.4 (95% CI 0.2-0.6) and 0.3 (95% CI 0.2-0.6)). Patients with thoracic STS (vs. lower limbs) had twice the odds to experience distress (OR 2.0 (95% CI 1.1-3.6)). Distress was seen almost twice as often in patients with progressive disease (vs. complete remission) (OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.1-2.8)).

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of elevated distress in STS and GIST patients is high. Unemployed patients, those with a disability pension and newly diagnosed patients are more often distressed than other patients. Clinicians and psycho-oncologists should be aware of these factors and consider the social aspects of the disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Transferability of health-related quality of life data of large observational studies to clinical practice - comparing retroperitoneal sarcoma patients from the PROSa study to a TARPS-WG cohort

INTRODUCTION

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is crucial for shared decision-making. The "Patient-Reported Outcome measures in Sarcoma" (PROSa) study evaluated HRQoL in general. We evaluated the transferability of PROSa data to clinical practice for the subgroup of retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS).

METHODS

To obtain a PROSa-RPS cohort we excluded patients with bone sarcomas and gastrointestinal stromal tumors from the complete PROSa-cohort (n=1113), limited tumor localization to trunk and retroperitoneum and excluded patients with metastases. We evaluated the HRQoL data of the resulting 76 patients and compared their clinical data to those of the Transatlantic Autralasian Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Working Group (TARPS-WG, n=1007).

RESULTS

Confidence intervals for patient sex, histological subtype (LPS vs. non-LPS), grading (G1 vs. G2/3), surgical margins (R2 vs. no R2) and perioperative chemo- and radiotherapy (yes vs. no) were overlapping in both cohorts. EORTC QLQ-C30 from RPS-PROSa patients demonstrated that two thirds had clinically relevant restrictions in physical functioning. Two thirds reported dyspnoea, followed by fatigue and pain.

CONCLUSION

Clinical data from RPS-PROSa patients are comparable to those of a RPS reference cohort from expert centers. We believe that HRQoL-data of RPS patients extracted from PROSa are transferable to clinical practice.

Predicting unplanned hospital readmission in palliative outpatients (PRePP) – study protocol of a longitudinal, prospective study to identify informal caregiver-related and structural predictors

Background

Although the majority of German patients in a palliative state prefer to die at home, the actual place of death is most often a hospital. Unplanned hospital readmissions (UHA) not only contradict most patients’ preferences but also increase the probability of an aggressive end-of-life treatment. As limited knowledge is available which factors contribute to an UHA, the PRePP-project aims to explore predictors related to informal caregivers (IC) as well as medical and structural factors.

Methods

This prospective, observational, mono-centric study will assess structural and medical factors as well as ICs’ psychological burden throughout seven study visits. Starting in April 2021 it will consecutively include 240 patients and their respective IC if available. Standardized measures concerning ICs’ Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF), psychological distress (NCCN-Distress Thermometer), anxiety (GAD-7) and depressiveness (PHQ-9) will be assessed. If participants prefer, assessment via phone, browser-based or paper-based will be conducted. Medical records will provide routinely assessed information concerning patient-related characteristics such as gender, age, duration of hospital stay and medical condition. Nurse-reported data will give information on whether hospitalization and death occurred unexpectedly. Data will be progressed pseudonymized. Multivariable regression models will help to identify predictors of the primary endpoint “unplanned hospital admissions”.

Discussion

The PRePP-project is an important prerequisite for a clinical risk assessment of UHAs. Nevertheless, it faces several methodological challenges: as it is a single center study, representativity of results is limited while social desirability might be increased as the study is partly conducted by the treatment team. Furthermore, we anticipated an underrepresentation of highly burdened participants as they might refrain from participation.

Trial registration

This study was retrospectively registered 19 October 2021 at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05082389). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05082389

The association of Health-Related Quality of Life and 1-year-survival in sarcoma patients—results of a Nationwide Observational Study (PROSa)

Background

Sarcomas are rare cancers of high heterogeneity. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) has been shown to be a prognostic factor for survival in other cancer entities but it is unclear whether this applies to sarcoma patients.

Patients and methods

HRQoL was prospectively assessed in adult sarcoma patients from 2017 to 2020 in 39 German recruiting sites using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Vital status was ascertained over the course of 1 year. HRQoL domains were analysed by multivariable cox-regressions including clinical and socio-economic risk factors.

Results

Of 1102 patients, 126 (11.4%) died during follow-up. The hazard ratio (HR) for global health was 0.73 per 10-point increase (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–0.85). HR for the HRQoL-summary score was 0.74 (CI 0.64–0.85) and for physical functioning 0.82 (CI 0.74–0.89). There was also evidence that fatigue (HR 1.17, CI 1.10–1.25), appetite loss (HR 1.15, CI 1.09–1.21) and pain (HR 1.14, CI 1.08–1.20) are prognostic factors for survival.

Conclusion

Our study adds sarcoma-specific evidence to the existing data about cancer survival in general. Clinicians and care-givers should be aware of the relations between HRQoL and survival probability and include HRQoL in routine assessment.

Quality of life of GIST patients with and without current tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment: Cross-sectional results of a German multicentre observational study (PROSa)

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST).

METHODS

In the multicentre PROSa study, the HRQoL of adult GIST patients was assessed between 2017 and 2019 using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer HRQoL questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). We performed group comparisons and multivariate linear regressions.

RESULTS

Among 130 patients from 13 centres, the mean global HRQoL was 63.3 out of 100 points. Higher sores indicate better HRQoL. The highest restrictions were in emotional, social, role functioning, insomnia, fatigue, and pain. In multivariate linear regression, we found no significant differences between patients receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment and those without TKI treatment as well as between patients treated with curative or with palliative intent. Patients who received multiple lines of TKI treatment had the most restrictions, notably in physical (unstandardized regression coefficient [B] = -15.7), role (B = -25.7), social (B = -18.4), and cognitive functioning (B = -19.7); fatigue (B = 15.93); general health (B = -14.23); and EORTC-sum score (B = -13.82) compared to all other patients.

CONCLUSION

The highest HRQoL restrictions were in GIST patients receiving multiple lines of TKI therapy. Underlying causes need further investigation.

Financial toxicity in sarcoma patients and survivors in Germany: results from the multicenter PROSa study

Purpose

Cancer patients have been shown to frequently suffer from financial burden before, during, and after treatment. However, the financial toxicity of patients with sarcoma has seldom been assessed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether financial toxicity is a problem for sarcoma patients in Germany and identify associated risk factors.

Methods

Patients for this analysis were obtained from a multicenter prospective cohort study conducted in Germany. Using the financial difficulties scale of the EORTC QLQ-C30, financial toxicity was considered to be present if the score exceeded a pre-defined threshold for clinical importance. Comparisons to an age- and sex-matched norm population were performed. A multivariate logistic regression using stepwise backward selection was used to identify factors associated with financial toxicity.

Results

We included 1103 sarcoma patients treated in 39 centers and clinics; 498 (44.7%) patients reported financial toxicity. Sarcoma patients had 2.5 times the odds of reporting financial difficulties compared to an age- and sex-matched norm population. Patient age < 40 and > 52.5 years, higher education status, higher income, and disease progression (compared to patients with complete remission) were associated with lower odds of reporting financial toxicity. Receiving a disability pension, being currently on sick leave, and having a disability pass were statistically significantly associated with higher odds of reporting financial toxicity.

Conclusion

Financial toxicity is present in about half of German sarcoma patients, making it a relevant quality of life topic for patients and decision-makers.

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health Based on a German Online Survey

Objective and Background: To contain the COVID-19 pandemic, public health actions have changed the everyday life with an inevitable impact on individuals and their social life. Since intact (socio-)psychological functioning and mental health are protective factors contributing to the immune system and preventing diseases, it is crucial to identify individuals with increased vulnerability.

Methods: We conducted a German online survey from April until August 2020 investigating health-related, social, behavioral, and psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. One hundred and seventy three adults participating in the survey were analyzed (39.9% male, age: M = 44.81±13.31). We explored effects on mental health by (a) clustering participants in two clusters and (b) analyzing the clusters using correlations and regression models.

Results: Participants belonged either to a cluster characterized by higher general well-being or to a more concerned cluster depending on their responses. The correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relation between age and well-being with younger participants revealing higher depression scores in the concerned cluster. Furthermore, multiple regression models revealed that the number of risk factors only has a significant influence on psychological well-being in the concerned but not in the comfortable cluster.

Conclusion: We found that especially participants at (a) younger age and (b) greater risk of a severe course of disease reported reduced mental well-being and seemed to be weakened in their psychological protective factors in our sample. These insights allow to provide tailored recommendations for preventive and immediate actions to promote psychological well-being and reduce stress.

Mobile and comprehensive assessment of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in routine inpatient cancer care: A three-arm randomized controlled feasibility study

e18664

Background: Most of the work on PRO has been done in outpatient setting. However, cancer patients might even suffer from more severe problems when admitted to hospital for anticancer therapy. The question whether and how patients’ well-being changes during the course of the hospital stay and if electronically assessed PRO (ePRO) will bring benefit to patients and physicians remains unanswered. Implementing such a tool into routine clinical care can be considered as an additional challenge.The objectives of this study were to implement a multidimensional ePRO system to improve patient-physician interaction in inpatient cancer care and test its feasibility. A comprehensive set of PRO measures that would broadly assess the patient’s situation was developed by a multidisciplinary expert team. Before study initiation, semi-structured interviews with patients were carried out to optimize visualization and user experience. The tool included a rapid response ePRO system with a patient-tailored graphical feedback for physicians. The effect of the mobile tool on quality of life (QoL), symptom burden and patients’ satisfaction with care were explored. Methods: The study is an interventional, three-arm and multicenter inpatient trial. A self-administered questionnaire based on validated PRO-measures was applied and completed at admission, one week after and at discharge. Group A (intervention arm) and B received tablet versions while group C (control) completed the questionnaire on paper. Additional to the mere assessment of electronic patient reported outcome, results from group A were presented graphically to the treating physicians. Standardized instruments included measures of QoL (EORTC QLQ-C30), patients’ satisfaction with care (IN-PATSAT32) and adverse events (PRO-CTCAE). A feasibility questionnaire was administered to arm A and B. Results: N = 185 patients (mean age 63.5, 44.3% female) were recruited in oncology wards. 62% of patients were treated for oncological disease (33% with stage IV disease) and 37% for hematological disease. Feasibility questions revealed that the majority of patients preferred the electronic tool and believed that the tool was of high value for individualized patient care. Among others, symptom burden and global QoL did not significantly change during hospital stay. Satisfaction with care was significantly lower ( p = 0.047) in the intervention group (mean 3.55) versus the control group (mean 3.77) with scores ranging from 0-5. Conclusions: Results indicate that the intervention is feasible. Some of the results are counterintuitive and could possibly be influenced by a lack of physician compliance due to a busy daily routine. Moreover, the optimal interval and composition of questionnaires has yet to be determined in inpatient setting.

Utilization of Interdisciplinary Tumor Boards for Sarcoma Care in Germany: Results from the PROSa Study

BACKGROUND

Data on institutional structures of sarcoma care in Germany are scarce. The utilization of an interdisciplinary tumor board (IDTB) is an essential part of modern cancer care. We investigated to which extent and when IDTB are used in sarcoma care. We hypothesized that IDTB before treatment initiation were used more often at certified cancer centers and at high-volume centers and that IDTB utilization increased over time.

METHODS

From 2017 to 2020 we conducted a prospective cohort study, undertaking major efforts to include the whole spectrum of sarcoma treatment facilities. To analyze potential predictors of IDTB utilization, we calculated multivariable logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Patients and survivors (n = 1,309) from 39 study centers (22 tertiary referral hospitals, 9 other hospitals, and 8 office-based practices) participated; 88.3% of the patients were discussed at some stage of their disease in an IDTB (56.1% before treatment, 78% after therapy, and 85.9% in metastatic disease). Hypotheses were confirmed regarding the utilization of IDTB in certified cancer centers (vs. all others: OR = 5.39; 95% CI 3.28-8.85) and the time of diagnosis (2018/2019 vs. until 2013: OR = 4.95; 95% CI 2.67-9.21).

CONCLUSION

Our study adds to the evidence regarding the institutional structures of sarcoma care in Germany. Utilization of a tumor board before therapy seems to be in an implementation process that is making progress but is far from complete. Certification is a possible tool to accelerate this development.

Incorporating the Patient Voice in Sarcoma Research: How Can We Assess Health-Related Quality of Life in This Heterogeneous Group of Patients? A Study Protocol

Sarcomas comprise 1% of adult tumors and are very heterogeneous. Long-lasting and cumulative treatment side-effects detract from the (progression-free) survival benefit of treatment. Therefore, it is important to assess treatment effectiveness in terms of patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as well. However, questionnaires capturing the unique issues of sarcoma patients are currently lacking. Given the heterogeneity of the disease, the development of such an instrument may be challenging. The study aims to (1) develop an exhaustive list of all HRQoL issues relevant to sarcoma patients and determine content validity; (2) determine a strategy for HRQoL measurement in sarcoma patients. We will conduct an international, multicenter, mixed-methods study (registered at clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04071704) among bone or soft tissue sarcoma patients ≥18 years, using EORTC Quality of Life Group questionnaire development guidelines. First, an exhaustive list of HRQoL issues will be generated, derived from literature and patient (n = 154) and healthcare professional (HCP) interviews (n = 30). Subsequently, another group of sarcoma patients (n = 475) and HCPs (n = 30) will be asked to rate and prioritize the issues. Responses will be analyzed by priority, prevalence and range of responses for each item. The outcome will be a framework for tailored HRQoL measurement in sarcoma patients, taking into account sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Quality of life and added value of a tailored palliative care intervention in patients with soft tissue sarcoma undergoing treatment with trabectedin: a multicentre, cluster-randomised trial within the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group (GISG)

OBJECTIVES

The choice of drug treatment in advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) continues to be a challenge regarding efficacy, quality of life (QoL) and toxicity. Unlike other cancer types, where integrating patient-reported outcomes (PRO) has proven to be beneficial for QoL, there is no such evidence in patients with STS as of now. The YonLife trial aimed to explore the effect of a tailored multistep intervention on QoL, symptoms and survival in patients with advanced STS undergoing treatment with trabectedin as well as identifying predictors of QoL.

DESIGN

YonLife is a cluster-randomised, open-label, proof-of-concept study. The intervention incorporates electronic PRO assessment, a case vignette and expert-consented treatment recommendations.

PARTICIPANTS

Six hospitals were randomised to the control arm (CA) or interventional arm (IA). Seventy-nine patients were included of whom 40 were analysed as per-protocol analysis set.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was the change of Functional Assessment for Cancer Therapy (FACT-G) total score after 9 weeks. Secondary outcomes included QoL (FACT-G subscales), anorexia and cachexia (Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT)), symptoms (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI)), anxiety and depression (HADS), pain intensity and interference (Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)) and survival assessment.

RESULTS

After 9 weeks of treatment, QoL declined less in the IA (ΔFACT-G total score: -2.4, 95% CI: -9.2 to 4.5) as compared with CA (ΔFACT-G total score: -3.9; 95% CI:-11.3 to 3.5; p=0.765). In almost all FACT-G subscales, average declines were lower in IA, but without reaching statistical significance. Smaller adverse trends between arms were observed for MDASI, FAACT, HADS and BPI scales. These trends failed to reach statistical significance. Overall mean survival was longer in IA (648 days) than in CA (389 days, p=0.110). QoL was predicted by symptom severity, symptom interference, depression and anxiety.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest a potentially favourable effect of an electronic patient-reported outcomes based intervention on QoL that needs to be reappraised in confirmatory studies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT02204111).

Motivationaler und gesundheitsschädigender Prozess bei Deutschen Hospizhelfern

Zusammenfassung. Eine möglichst lang anhaltende Bindung (Retention) ehrenamtlicher Hospizhelfer an ihre Freiwilligentätigkeit und die Erhaltung der psychischen Gesundheit sind für ambulante Hospizdienste angesichts steigender Zahlen an hochaltrigen Menschen in unserer Gesellschaft sowie zeit- und ressourcenaufwendiger Qualifikation der Ehrenamtlichen wichtige Kenngrößen. Basierend auf dem Job Demands-Resources Modell (JD-R) untersuchte die vorliegende Studie mögliche Prädiktoren für die Absicht, in der Freiwilligentätigkeit zu verbleiben (Retentionsabsicht), und die psychische Gesundheit bei 110 ehrenamtlichen Hospizhelfern. Im Sinne des motivationalen Prozesses zeigten wir einen positiven direkten Effekt der Ressourcen freiwilliger Hospizhelfer auf deren Retentionsabsicht. Zudem fanden wir einen signifikanten negativen indirekten Effekt von Anforderungen auf die psychische Gesundheit der Freiwilligen, welcher über Burnout vermittelt wurde. Insgesamt sprechen die Ergebnisse für eine hohe Ausprägung der Retentionsabsicht von ehrenamtlichen Hospizhelfern und für geringe Burnout-Werte, jedoch bei mehr als einem Viertel der Studienteilnehmer für Depressivitätswerte, die einer weiteren Diagnostik bedürfen.

A cluster-randomised, controlled proof-of-concept study to explore the feasibility and effect of a patient-directed intervention on quality of life in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma

INTRODUCTION

Even with evolving and expanding therapeutical options for the treatment of advanced sarcomas over recent years, the balance between efficacy and toxicity still remains a major concern. Moreover, the symptom burden in patients with sarcoma remains high compared with other malignant diseases. It is, therefore, crucial to assess treatment effectiveness not only in terms of disease-related outcomes (eg, overall survival) but also from an individual and patient-centred perspective using the assessment of patient-reported outcomes (PROs). By focusing on PROs as a primary study endpoint, we aim to address key issues for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) undergoing palliative treatment.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The protocol of the YonLife study describes a multicentre, cluster-randomised, controlled, open-label proof-of-concept study conducted in patients with advanced or metastatic STS treated with trabectedin in seven German hospitals. The primary objective of the study is to exploratively compare overall quality of life between the patients receiving a multidimensional intervention based on individual PROs and those receiving usual supportive treatment. This complex intervention consists of the (1) electronic assessment of PRO, (2) creation of a case vignette based on PRO and clinical data and (3) treatment suggestions based on the discussion of these vignettes in a regularly meeting expert panel. Additionally, the YonLife trial assesses the applicability of a tablet-based assessment of PROs. Patients' and physicians' acceptance and challenges concerning the implementation process will be evaluated.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The YonLife trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the University Hospital Dresden as well as by the relevant institutions of each participating centre before patient enrolment. The findings will be reported via relevant peer-reviewed journals as well as through presentation at international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02204111, pre-results.

Implementation and first results of a tablet-based assessment referring to patient-reported outcomes in an inpatient cancer care unit

BACKGROUND

Inclusion of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in routine cancer care is of key importance for individualized treatment, shared decision making and patient satisfaction.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the implementation under routine conditions of an electronic self-administered PRO assessment and comparison of PROs before and after inpatient treatment in oncologic care.

METHODS

In a tablet-based survey PROs on symptom burden, global health status/ quality of life (QoL) and health utility were collected twice (at hospital admission and discharge) in an inpatient oncological setting over a 17-month period using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EQ-5D questionnaires. Data were linked to the hospital information system (HIS). Patient acceptability, recruitment rates, symptom burden, and clinically meaningful changes in PROs over time were analyzed.

RESULTS

From a total of 384 hospitalized patients invited to participate at admission 371 (96.6 %) participated. At discharge, 195 patients were approached for a follow-up assessment, and 192 patients (98.5 %) participated. Despite strong acceptance among patients, recruitment rates were decreasing over time. During the hospital stay clinically meaningful improvements were observed for health utility (33.3 %, n = 64) and global health status/QoL (43.2 %, n = 83). Patients reported a variety of symptoms at admission and discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of PRO assessment in routine care and data integration into the HIS provides valuable information for the entire medical staff as symptom burden is present during the entire hospital stay.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Long-term maintenance of PRO assessment in a clinical setting as a prerequisite of value-based healthcare requires continuous involvement of the nursing team, which can only be achieved by allocating resources to this task.

Impact of Different Exercise Programs on Severe Fatigue in Patients Undergoing Anticancer Treatment-A Randomized Controlled Trial

CONTEXT

Physical exercise can alleviate cancer-related fatigue. Randomized controlled trials in patients with advanced cancer are scarce.

OBJECTIVES

We test the impact of a structured, individual sports program on fatigue in patients with advanced cancer.

METHODS

Seventy-seven patients were invited to participate in this randomized controlled trial exploring the effects of physical exercises on fatigue 12 and 24 weeks after baseline. Patients were randomized into three groups. Group A received treatment as usual, Group B was taught a structured, individual sports program, and Group C received additional ambulatory physiotherapeutical supervision. Primary outcome was general fatigue, secondary outcomes included rate of severe general fatigue, further dimensions of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI), as well as walking distance.

RESULTS

Mean score of general fatigue as well as other MFI subdimensions differed nonsignificantly between all groups at 12 weeks. However, the mental fatigue score demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the three groups. The rate of severe general fatigue was significantly reduced within Intervention Group C. Significant longitudinal change of MFI-dimension mental fatigue was found and reached the threshold for minimal clinically important difference, while all MFI-dimensions increased in Group A.

CONCLUSION

Our results imply that tumor-patients' severe general fatigue can be reduced when patients conduct appropriate physical exercise. This study amends previous knowledge, as it describes the impact of outpatient physical exercise on fatigue in a heterogeneous patient cohort with various advanced cancer entities. Furthermore, this trial differentiates between patients with only a self-directed exercise program versus those receiving additional partially professional supervision.

Mammalian-target of rapamycin inhibition with temsirolimus in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) patients is associated with considerable toxicity: results of the temsirolimus pilot trial by the German MDS Study Group (D-MDS)

The mammalian-target of rapamycin (also termed mechanistic target of rapamycin, mTOR) pathway integrates various pro-proliferative and anti-apoptotic stimuli and is involved in regulatory T-cell (TREG) development. As these processes contribute to the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), we hypothesized that mTOR modulation with temsirolimus (TEM) might show activity in MDS. This prospective multicentre trial enrolled lower and higher risk MDS patients, provided that they were transfusion-dependent/neutropenic or relapsed/refractory to 5-azacitidine, respectively. All patients received TEM at a weekly dose of 25 mg. Of the 9 lower- and 11 higher-risk patients included, only 4 (20%) reached the response assessment after 4 months of treatment and showed stable disease without haematological improvement. The remaining patients discontinued TEM prematurely due to adverse events. Median overall survival (OS) was not reached in the lower-risk group and 296 days in the higher-risk group. We observed a significant decline of bone marrow (BM) vascularisation (P = 0·006) but were unable to demonstrate a significant impact of TEM on the balance between TREG and pro-inflammatory T-helper-cell subsets within the peripheral blood or BM. We conclude that mTOR-modulation with TEM at a dose of 25 mg per week is accompanied by considerable toxicity and has no beneficial effects in elderly MDS patients.

Efficacy and safety of Dexrazoxane (DRZ) in sarcoma patients receiving high cumulative doses of anthracycline therapy - a retrospective study including 32 patients

BACKGROUND

Anthracyclines, as the most effective therapy, are the cornerstone of advanced stage sarcoma treatment. However, anthracyclines can also contribute to myocardial dysfunction and congestive heart failure, ultimately limiting the therapeutic potential of the drug. Coadministration of Dexrazoxane has been shown to effectively reduce cardiotoxicity, however primarily in patients suffering in diseases other than sarcoma.

METHODS

The aim of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate safety and efficacy of chemotherapy with high cumulative doses of anthracyclines in combination with Dexrazoxane. The medical charts of 32 patients treated in four institutions were analyzed. Reasons for coadministration were rechallenge, reaching the cumulative anthracycline dose and preexisting heart failure.

RESULTS

The median age was 54 years [18-68 years]. The median cumulative anthracycline dose before adding DRZ was 450 mg/m(2) and after administration of last anthracycline containing therapy 750 mg/m(2). Either during treatment or follow up, 2/27 patients (7 %) without preexisting major cardiac findings developed anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity. The median overall survival (OS) from start of the first anthracycline containing chemotherapy was 46 months and 17 months from the initial coadministration of DRZ. At rechallenge, the median progression free survival (PFS) with DRZ was 7 months. In continuous therapy, the median PFS was 13 months from beginning of chemotherapy and 9 months from the addition of DRZ.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy with high cumulative doses of anthracyclines in addition with DRZ demonstrated a remarkable OS in these advanced disease patients. Cardiac side-effects due to high cumulative doses of anthracyclines requiring discontinuation of anthracycline treatment were rare. A PFS of 9 months from the beginning of the coadministration of DRZ indicates that continuing anthracycline therapy beyond established cumulative doses is a promising therapeutic option.

Effects of a home-based exercise program on physical capacity and fatigue in patients with low to intermediate risk myelodysplastic syndrome-a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Fatigue is a frequent and disabling symptom in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). There is evidence for the benefit of exercise on fatigue in haematological malignancies, but clinical trials targeting patients with MDS do not exist.

METHODS

A prospective, non-randomized feasibility trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of a home-based exercise intervention in patients with MDS. Exercise schedule contained endurance or strength training in daily turns over 12 weeks. Outcome measures included 6-min walking distance (6-MWD), an ergometer check, strength measurement of lower limb, abdomen and back, quality of life and fatigue.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (13 male, 8 female) were included. Median age was 66 years (range 29-87). Fifteen patients (71%) continued the program till week 12 (T1), of whom eleven patients met criteria for program completion. There were no adverse events reported due to the intervention. 6-MWD significantly improved from 580m at T0 to 645m at T1 (p<0.05). Fatigue scores did not significantly change over time (MFI: 12.8 vs. 12.3 vs. 11.9; QLQ-C30 fatigue scale: 48.2 vs. 46.7 vs. 47.4).

CONCLUSION

These data provide evidence that an unsupervised outpatient exercise program is feasible and can improve physical capacity. Randomized, controlled studies implementing these interventions are warranted.

Implementation of a mobile inpatient quality of life (QoL) assessment for oncology nursing

PURPOSE

Cancer patients suffer from a variety of symptoms, but little is known about changes during hospitalization and symptom burden at discharge. We implemented an electronic quality of life (QoL) assessment used by the nursing team in routine inpatient care. Feasibility, acceptance, and the course of QoL were investigated.

METHODS

A self-administered electronic questionnaire based on the EQ-5D and the EORTC QLQ-C30 was applied in clinical routine. Cancer patients were approached by the nursing staff to complete the QoL assessment twice, at admission and at the day of discharge. Both the feedback of the nursing staff as well as characteristics of participants were used to evaluate the electronic assessment.

RESULTS

Out of 210 patients from an oncologic ward, 85 patients (40 %) were invited to participate, 95 % of whom (n = 81) agreed to participate. Participation rate depended on the day of admission, the presence of the coordinating nurse, the overall morbidity assessed by patient clinical complexity level, and the patient age. Forty-six patients (56 %) asked for assistance in completing the questionnaire. Patients older than 53 years and male patients were more likely to need assistance. Twenty-two percent of the nursing staff (n = 5) use the information assessed for individual patient care. Fifty-two percent (n = 12) rated the additional workload as very little or little and 68 % (n = 15) agreed that handling for the patient was easy. Global QoL improved during the stay. Most severe symptoms at admission included fatigue, pain, appetite loss, and insomnia.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that it is feasible to implement and use an electronic QoL assessment by the nursing staff in routine inpatient cancer care. Obstacles and worries of staff members have to be considered when further developing this program.

Electronic real-time assessment of patient-reported outcomes in routine care-first findings and experiences from the implementation in a comprehensive cancer center

PURPOSE

Cancer patients suffer from a variety of physical and mental complaints. Since physician assessment of symptoms seems insufficient to reveal the complete range of patients' ailments, patient-reported outcomes (PRO) have become of key importance in modern cancer treatment. The implementation and first results of a systematic electronic real-time assessment of PRO in routine care is described.

METHODS

Consecutive patients presenting for the first time to a German comprehensive cancer center were asked to fill in an adaptive self-administered electronic questionnaire consisting of standardized PRO measures. After completion, patient-reported data was linked to the patients' medical files for discussion in the first consultation with the treating physician. Interviews with staff were conducted to identify barriers in implementation.

RESULTS

Out of 160 cancer patients, 126 (79 %; mean age 63 years, 67 % males) agreed to participate. The number of recruited patients increased over time. Of participating patients, 67 % provided complete information on all PRO-related scales. On average, 31 min (range 3-140) were required to fill in the questionnaire. Of participating patients, 53.0 % comprised need for psychooncological support and 62 % revealed moderate to severe psychosocial distress. The mean score for global quality of life according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) was 55.2 (SD ±25.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Comprehensive oncological treatment needs to consider disease symptoms, quality of life, preferences, and comorbidities of individual patients in a structured, standardized, and transparent way. Our findings indicate that an adaptive, self-administered electronic assessment tool for cancer patients to report a broad set of PRO can be feasibly implemented and is well accepted by patients in a realistic setting.