531P - Tumor treating fields therapy for glioblastoma: Identifying needs and satisfaction of new and long-term users

Background

Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy uses electric fields to disrupt processes critical for cancer cell survival. TTFields therapy delivered by a wearable, portable device is approved in several counties for the treatment of newly diagnosed and recurrent glioblastoma (GBM), including Germany, Austria, Switzerland (DACH) and the US, and is under investigation for other tumour types.

Methods

Two surveys (independently developed and administered) were distributed (mail and online) in DACH and the US to patients/caregivers using TTFields (Optune^(R); Novocure^(R) GmbH, device manufacturer) as therapy for GBM.

Results

Between 1 January–31 December 2022, 545 (DACH) and 1282 (US) patients/caregivers returned surveys (response rates of 43% and 27%, respectively). In DACH, 43% had recently initiated therapy (“new starters”; 66% were male, 55% were ≥60 yrs of age). In the US, 31% of responses were from new starters; 69% were male and 63% were ≥60 yrs. Respondents with TTFields usage of >6 months (long-term users) accounted for 21% of DACH and 29% of US surveys; most were male (59% in DACH; 65% in US), and around half were ≥60 yrs of age (40% in DACH; 55% in US). Overall satisfaction (very satisfied, satisfied, mixed, less satisfied or dissatisfied) with TTFields was high; most respondents indicated they were very satisfied or satisfied (82% and 61% of new starters, and 67% and 74% of long-term users, in DACH and the US, respectively). Amongst long-term users, most noted that using TTFields required changes to daily life (63% DACH; 57% US). Frequently mentioned changes related to skin irritation, device handling, and impact of weight/portability on lifestyle. Despite this, the majority (74% in DACH; 73% in US) of long-term TTFields users/caregivers would recommend the treatment for GBM.

Conclusions

Surveys returned in DACH and the US showed the population of TTFields therapy users was representative of patients with GBM. Users from both surveys had a high level of satisfaction with the therapy and mostwould recommend it to others. Any potential concerns regarding device handling/portability can perhaps be mitigated by increased educational and communication efforts.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

Novocure.

Funding

Novocure.

Disclosure

E.T. Batzianouli, R. Adams, H. Johnson, P.G. Gwyn, H.I. Abdullah: Financial Interests, Personal, Full or part-time Employment: Novocure; Financial Interests, Personal, Stocks/Shares: Novocure.