1833P - JUMP_START: Optimization of multiprofessional care for young patients with colorectal cancer

Background

With rising rates of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) among younger individuals, dedicated care programs are crucial. JUMP_START, a multi-center trial associated with the AIO (Quality of Life/PRO Working Group, AIO-LQ-0323ass), is currently recruiting at the National Center for Tumor Diseases Heidelberg and aims to understand the needs of young CRC patients and improve multiprofessional support.

Methods

To identify unmet needs and important topics, semi-structured interviews were conducted with CRC patients ≤ 50 years until content saturation (n = 14), leading to 464 minutes of audio. The interview guide was developed based on i) literature research, ii) discussion with affected individuals, and iii) multiprofessional expert discussions. Qualitative content analysis was performed using Kuckartz's method. Quality of life of CRC patients ≤ 50 and > 50 years was evaluated using the EORTC QLQ-C30 (n = 111) and QLQ-CR29 (n = 150). Scores were categorized into functional and symptom scales (0-100 range) following the EORTC Scoring Manual. In a planned interim analysis, the age groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney-U-test.

Results

Patients ≤ 50 years (n = 47) had lower functional levels in 3 out of 5 functional scales compared to patients > 50 years (n = 64) for both QLQ-C30 (emotional functioning (main scores: 51.8 vs. 66.3; p = 0.003), cognitive functioning (66.3 vs. 81.8; p = 0.001), social functioning (48.9 vs. 62.2; p = 0.020)) and QLQ-CR29 (n = 70, ≤ 50 years; n = 80, > 50 years) (anxiety (36.1 vs. 47.5; p = 0.028), weight (65.2 vs. 77.1; p = 0.031), body image (65.6 vs; 75.7; p = 0.023)). The interviews highlighted six areas of importance: changes in daily routine/employment, fertility/family planning, psychological distress, nutrition, and sports. Essential needs included psycho-oncological counseling, sports programs, social services, and nutritional support. Unmet needs included guides for care services, exchange with peers, and information on studies.

Conclusions

Young CRC patients report lower functional levels and higher psychological distress. Tailored multiprofessional support and navigation programs are necessary to address their specific care needs.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

The authors.

Funding

National Center for Tumor Diseases Heidelberg.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.