Age-related sarcoma patient experience: results from a national survey in England, BMC Cancer

Sarcomas are rare, heterogeneous tumours affecting patients of any age. Previous surveys describe that sarcoma patients report a significantly worse experience than those with common cancers. Consequently, Sarcoma UK conducted a national survey and these data were examined for age- and tumour-related differences in patients’ experiences. Patients were randomly selected from respondents to National Cancer Patient Experience Surveys (n = 900). Differences between patient groups according to age (Adolescents and Young Adults [AYA] 18–39 years, middle-aged 40–64 years, elderly 65 + years) and tumour type (soft-tissue [STS] vs. bone]) were analysed with t-tests or chi-square tests. Survey response rate was 62% (n = 558; STS 75%, bone sarcoma 25%). Delay in diagnosis was reported; 27% patients (n = 150) waited > 3 months and initial symptoms were incorrectly interpreted; AYA STS patients were significantly more likely to be treated for another condition, or advised that their symptoms were not serious, than older STS patients. Clinical trial participation was low (6%, n = 35). Symptom burden was high, most commonly daytime fatigue (48%, n = 277) and pain (44%, n = 248). AYAs were significantly more likely to report most side-effects and post-treatment concerns than older patients. Elderly patients were more satisfied with the information and emotional support provided than younger patients, however were significantly less likely to be referred to rehabilitation services. This study identifies significant age-related differences in the sarcoma patient journey, which are not only related to variation in tumour-types. These results provide rationale for adopting an age-specific approach to the management of sarcoma patients in order to improve overall patient experience.

Global Cancer Statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN Estimates of Incidence and

Diagnostics, Free Full-Text

Purpose

PDF) Diagnosed with a Rare Cancer: Experiences of Adult Sarcoma

PDF) Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours (GIST) in Young Adult (18–40 Years) Patients: A Report from the Dutch GIST Registry

Diagnostic delay in soft tissue tumors: a single-center study of a university cancer center with a focus on health services research, BMC Health Services Research

PDF) Incidence, Survival, and Mortality Trends of Cancers Diagnosed in Adolescents and Young Adults (15–39 Years): A Population-Based Study in The Netherlands 1990–2016

Sotorasib for Lung Cancers with KRAS p.G12C Mutation

Qualitative study to characterize patient experience and relevance