2022 World Conference on Lung Cancer (Posters)-P1.09-01. The Lung Cancer Patient Experience and Care Pathway: A Multi-Country Survey

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A global survey was conducted to understand the experiences and care pathways of people with lung cancer. The survey included 1,000 participants who completed an online questionnaire between October 2021 and January 2022. The median age of diagnosis was 51 years, and the majority of participants were male. The survey found that the diagnosis of lung cancer had a significant impact on various aspects of daily life, both physically and mentally. Working life was particularly affected, with more individuals in North America reporting an impact compared to Europe and Asia. The quality of life and the well-being of people with lung cancer were discussed with pulmonologists/respiratory specialists, medical oncologists, and spouses/partners. Support in daily life was reported by 71% of participants, mainly provided by family members. However, 7% of participants did not have support but desired it. Menta1 well-being was a major difficulty for almost half of the participants, and 64% had received or desired psychological support. Employment status was also affected, leading to reduced or interrupted work due to sick leave or early retirement. The study also found that there were disparities in the care and management of lung cancer worldwide. The diagnosis pathway often involved pulmonologists/respiratory specialists, followed by primary care physicians/general practitioners and medical oncologists. Treatment decisions were influenced by doctors, family members, and the desire to live longer or control the cancer. Participants reported hesitating to start treatment due to concerns about its impact on daily life, quality of life, and long-term side effects. Additionally, the survey revealed that many participants were not asked to participate in clinical trials, suggesting a potential missed opportunity for treatment options. The findings highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address the impact of lung cancer on mental well-being and employment, as well as to improve access to healthcare and information.

Asset Subtitle

Pauline Frank, Msc, Switzerland

Meta Tag

Speaker Pauline Frank, Msc, Switzerland

Topic Global Health, Health Services Research, and Health Economics - Support to Patients and Staff

Keywords

global survey

lung cancer

care pathways

diagnosis impact

working life

quality of life

well-being

support in daily life

disparities in care

treatment decisions