2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) - ePosters-EP.12B.05 Drivers of Treatment Choice in ALK-Positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer from Patients' and Caregivers' Perspectives

EP.12B.05 Drivers of Treatment Choice in ALK-Positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer from Patients' and Caregivers' Perspectives

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The study outlined in the document examines the perspectives of patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positive metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and their caregivers on treatment options, focusing on the associated adverse events (AEs) and treatment regimens. Conducted in the US, it involved semi-structured interviews with 20 participants, including patients and caregivers, to understand their preferences and concerns regarding current treatment options.<br /><br />Key study findings highlight that both patients and caregivers prioritize avoiding certain AEs, particularly lung complications, cognitive/mood effects, and abnormal lab results. These AEs are deemed concerning due to limited management options and their potential impact on treatment continuity and patient functionality.<br /><br />Progression-free survival (PFS) was often ranked higher than overall survival as a significant treatment benefit, reflecting patients' desire to manage symptoms and delay cancer progression. Prevention of brain metastasis was also notably valued given its severe implications compared to lung-focused cancer progression.<br /><br />Regarding treatment regimens, while patients showed a preference for once-daily pills, aspects like the number of pills or food requirements ultimately played a minor role in their treatment choices compared to the potential treatment benefits or risks. Patients and caregivers suggested that awareness of drugs available to manage AEs could alleviate concerns.<br /><br />The study underscores the importance of understanding patient and caregiver preferences and concerns to facilitate shared decision-making. It addresses the necessity for more data on the treatment experiences of ALK NSCLC patients to better guide therapeutic strategies and improve quality of life.

Asset Subtitle

Christopher Danes

Meta Tag

Speaker Christopher Danes

Topic Metastatic Non-small Cell Lung Cancer – Targeted Therapy

Keywords

ALK positive NSCLC

metastatic lung cancer

patient perspectives

caregiver perspectives

adverse events

treatment regimens

progression-free survival

brain metastasis prevention

shared decision-making

quality of life