Insights into the advanced non-small cell lung cancer patient journey: Treatment decision-making, preferences, and quality of life considerations.

Abstract

e21129 Background: Individuals with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) who have undergone multiple lines of prior therapy face a poor prognosis and limited treatment options, significantly impacting quality of life (QoL). This exercise explored European, North, and South American patient advocate perspectives on QoL and its relation to treatment decision-making and preferences in aNSCLC. Methods: A global aNSCLC patient advocacy advisory board was convened with organizations from Europe, US, Canada, and Brazil, asking participants about QoL and treatment side effects, and how these relate to subsequent care and treatment decision-making. The discussion was moderated by an oncologist, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Preserving one’s independence was highlighted as a key component of QoL, with advocates noting that tumor-related symptoms and treatment toxicities have a substantial negative impact on an individual’s ability to engage in daily activities. Fatigue – both physical and psychological – is especially burdensome, particularly for those who have undergone multiple lines of therapy. Participants also noted the need for more accessible care (e.g., telehealth appointments, oral therapies) that fits into the routines of individuals and caregivers. The importance of palliative care and its ability to improve QoL was noted, showing the need for health systems to better integrate palliative care into treatment regimens. Finally, participants noted that treatment priorities change as individuals undergo subsequent lines of therapy, with participants noting the importance of independence and QoL in later stages of therapy, and thus must be assessed regularly by the care team. Conclusions: Individuals with aNSCLC place importance on consideration of QoL when making treatment decisions, particularly those related to maintaining independence. While there remains a need for additional and more effective therapies, an integrated and accessible care approach, with patient-provider communication focusing on maintaining QoL and independence, should be a priority.