Abstract 135P
Background
Cancer patients often perceive their condition differently from healthcare professionals (HCPs). The differences in perception can be explained by a variety of factors, including emotional involvement, family support and personal beliefs. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which patients' perceptions of their cancer care are consistent with HCPs' understanding, and to identify factors that might explain the lack of agreement.
Methods
Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients were invited to participate in the PICO-SM study. They were asked to indicate their perceived disease status (under control, progressing or uncertain) and to complete psychometric tools to assess anxiety, depression and well-being. Two HCPs independently and blinded to patients' responses reviewed case notes to indicate the stage of the patient's treatment at the time the patient completed the questionnaire. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression for binary outcomes: anxiety (GAD-7 ≥ 5), depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10), and poor well-being (WHO-5 < 50); odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.
Results
205 patients with CRC were included. The mean age was 65 years and 58% were male. Overall, a significant difference in perception between HCPs and patients was observed (p<0.001), particularly for patients identified by HCPs as having progressive disease (PD). Significant discrepancies were observed for patients receiving palliative care (p<0.001), whereas patients in the adjuvant or neo-adjuvant pathway appeared to be more in line with HCPs' perceptions (p=0.99). No demographic factors were associated with lack of agreement in perception. Patients perceiving PD or expressing uncertainty had significantly higher levels of depression compared to those with stable disease (SD) in multivariate analysis (OR 6.42, p=0.001 and OR 3.86, p=0.009, respectively).
Conclusions
This study reveals significant differences in cancer perception between HCPs and patients, particularly among those without SD or undergoing palliative care, highlighting the importance of effective communication in addressing patients' needs and psychological well-being.
Clinical trial identification
21/WA/0021, IRAS ID 292413, date of approval 21 January 2021.
Legal entity responsible for the study
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust (Ref: CFTSp196).
Funding
Servier.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.