Cancer patients' preferences for written prognostic information provided outside the clinical context
2003

Cancer Patients' Preferences for Written Prognostic Information

Sample size: 26 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Davey H M, Butow P N, Armstrong B K

Primary Institution: The University of Sydney

Hypothesis

Do cancer patients want written prognostic information independent of the clinical context?

Conclusion

Most cancer patients prefer clear, positive, and relevant written prognostic information outside the clinical context.

Supporting Evidence

  • 23 out of 26 participants supported the provision of written prognostic information.
  • Participants preferred positively framed information to convey hope.
  • Most participants felt that clear information was more important than the presentation format.

Takeaway

Cancer patients want to know their chances of survival, and they prefer this information to be clear and hopeful.

Methodology

The study used a qualitative approach with questionnaires and face-to-face interviews to gather patient preferences.

Potential Biases

Participants may have had biases based on their personal experiences and preferences.

Limitations

The small sample size and qualitative design limit the generalizability of the findings.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 15 women and 11 men, aged 18 and older, with various types of cancer.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6601287

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