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Outcomes research in lung cancer
1F.R.C.P.C., Center for Outcomes and Policy Research, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney St., 454-STE 21-24, Boston, MA 02115, USA. craig_earle@dfci.harvard.edu
Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Monographs
|October 27, 2004
Summary
This review of lung cancer outcomes research from 1990-2000 shows a growing body of literature, primarily focused on quality of life and costs. Further research is needed in quality of care and new technologies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Services Research
- Medical Outcomes
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
- Current treatments offer limited benefits with significant toxicity and cost.
- Outcomes analysis is crucial for improving lung cancer care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically audit the published literature on lung cancer outcomes.
- To analyze trends and identify research gaps in lung cancer outcomes from 1990-2000.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and analysis of English-language outcomes literature from 1990-2000.
- Inclusion of original research on quality of life, health economics, communication, decision making, quality of care, and patient satisfaction.
- Literature reviewed and analyzed by a single author.
Main Results:
- The lung cancer outcomes literature has expanded significantly.
- Quality of life (53%) and costs (35%) were the most studied outcomes.
- Research on quality of care, communication, and decision-making remains sparse.
- The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 (LC13) is a common quality-of-life tool.
Conclusions:
- A substantial body of lung cancer outcomes research exists since 1990.
- Further research is needed in methods development and assessing new technologies.
- Monitoring quality of care for vulnerable populations requires attention.