Patient perception of burden of disease and treatment preferences in non-small cell lung cancer: Results from a European survey

Objectives: To understand European non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients' perceptions of disease burden, treatment, and future expectations of treatment and care.

Materials and methods: A 32-item online survey was conducted on a sample of NSCLC patients across Europe. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results were presented by disease stage (I-III vs. IV).

Results: NSCLC patients (N = 292) from 10 countries responded. Most patients resided in France, Spain, Italy, Germany and UK, with 16 patients from five other countries. Patients' knowledge of biomarker testing was limited (23% of 376 responses indicated no knowledge). Patients reported fear (stage I-III: 40%, stage IV: 27%), anxiety (stage I-III: 44%, stage IV: 33%) and depression (stage I-III: 24%, stage IV: 20%), but also hope (stage I-III: 57%, stage IV: 59%). Professional status was majorly impacted for 43% of stage I-III patients and 58% stage IV patients. Household finances were impacted for ∼70% of all patients. Oral treatment was preferred (60%), and respondents understood dosing schedules (stage I-III: 82%, stage IV: 97%) remembering to take medications (stage I-III: 82%, stage IV: 87%). Most respondents were willing to take more pills, but some indicated that this would be difficult.

Conclusion: Approximately half of the patients in this survey were aware of clinical trial options, but most lacked information about their molecular tumor profile, making it difficult for patients to engage in discussions about their care. The results also suggest that NSCLC patients have significant information and support needs, especially in the areas of emotional and financial burden. Action is needed to address these burdens associated with NSCLC. Furthermore, patients should be provided with the information needed to actively participate in treatment decisions.