2022 World Conference on Lung Cancer (ePosters)-EP10.01-005. Australian Lung Cancer Survivors Experiences of Novel Treatments, Healthcare, and Ongoing Physical and Psychological Needs

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This study aimed to explore the experiences and challenges faced by Australian lung cancer survivors who have undergone novel treatments such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies. The participants included adults who were 6-24 months post-diagnosis and had completed initial lung cancer treatment. The study used a qualitative approach, conducting telephone interviews to gather data on physical, psychological, and social changes and challenges experienced by the survivors. <br /><br />The results of the study identified three main themes. The first theme focused on living with symptoms and side effects. Participants described a rollercoaster of tests and treatments, but many found that the treatment was not as bad as expected and were proud of their coping skills. Common ongoing effects included fatigue, breathlessness, coughing, nausea, poor sleep, uncertainty, fear of recurrence or progression. Participants were learning to live with these effects, with some symptoms improving over time. <br /><br />The second theme explored hope and struggle. Participants understood the reality of their diagnosis and prognosis, and while some were practically preparing for death, they remained hopeful for more time and focused on enjoying life. Many participants perceived novel treatments like immunotherapy as a beacon of hope, with some willing to endure severe side effects for a chance of a cure. <br /><br />The third theme examined the interaction with the healthcare system. Participants valued the continued involvement of the cancer care team, particularly access to a specialist nurse coordinator. However, the role of the general practitioner (GP) in survivorship was unclear and varied. Some participants felt their GP was not informed by the cancer care team, while others found their GP to be an emotional support. <br /><br />Overall, most participants coped well, showed resilience and acceptance, and enjoyed life. They found the physical and psychological effects to be manageable and drew on personal qualities and strategies to cope. However, they expressed the need for clear and realistic information about the efficacy and possible side effects of novel treatments. <br /><br />It is important for clinicians to be aware of the optimistic attitudes of patients towards novel therapies when discussing treatment options and to provide accurate information to facilitate informed decision-making. The study acknowledges that participants had relatively high quality of life and low distress levels, so the perspectives of those who are more acutely unwell or struggling may not have been fully captured.

Asset Subtitle

Bea Brown

Meta Tag

Speaker Bea Brown

Topic Palliative and Supportive Care

Keywords

Australian lung cancer survivors

novel treatments

immunotherapy

targeted therapies

experiences

challenges

qualitative approach

physical changes

psychological changes

social changes