Unmet information needs and knowledge gaps in cancer patients undergoing oral anticancer therapy

The increasing use of oral anticancer therapy (OAT) requires self-management skills from cancer patients. Adequate information and counseling, as well as medication literacy, are key elements of safe and successful therapy in the patient's home.

The aim of the study was to identify unmet information needs and knowledge gaps of cancer patients regarding their therapy with OAT.

Semi-structured, guideline-based interviews with cancer patients undergoing OAT were conducted, recorded and professionally transcribed. The transcripts were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

A total of 21 interviews were conducted. Fifteen of the interviewees were female, the median age was 69.6 years. Patients with solid tumours as well as those with blood cancers were interviewed. In the interviews, experiences were reported with various classes of OATs (chemotherapy; anti-hormonal therapy; targeted therapy). The following themes were identified: 1) Therapy-related information needs; 2) No information received; 3) No awareness for information needs; 4) No need for more information; 5) Therapy-related knowledge gaps; 6) Potentially inadequate knowledge. Deficits were identified in relation to correct use, possible interactions, and dealing with adverse events. Individual patients also report actively avoiding information.

The identified information needs and knowledge gaps of patients undergoing OAT highlight the need to optimize information and counseling in order to ensure treatment safety and success. In addition to providing knowledge, the self-management skills of patients should also be specifically strengthened. Furthermore, improvements to the structural framework in the outpatient setting are necessary, particularly with regard to the availability of counseling services. The results can be used as a basis for the development of specific interprofessional educational interventions for those affected.