Sponsored Insight
The scientific understanding of the causes and mechanisms of cancers has advanced in recent years enabling scientists to develop new diagnostic methods and treatments that provide greater tumor precision and patient personalization. However, according to patient/carer groups in a recent survey, the dissemination of patient-focused information about the innovations in cancer research and treatment has failed to keep pace with the advances in cancer science.
AstraZeneca commissioned a survey with PatientView to better understand how the patient and caregiver communities view the landscape of cancer science communications. Reaching 124 patient and caregiver group representatives in 39 countries, the survey uncovered a need to simplify science information for individuals battling cancer and for their families.
The majority of survey respondents recognize that cancer science is complex and changing rapidly, and 99 percent agree or somewhat agree that patients want to know how their cancer treatments work. More than 90 percent of patient organizations surveyed believe that the communities they serve will be better equipped to manage their cancer diagnoses with a fundamental understanding of basic cancer science, while 60 percent of survey respondents believe that cancer science is not well explained to patients and the public.
“As an organization that regularly communicates the benefits and risks of our medicines, we believe these survey results demonstrate a clear call to action for all who educate cancer patients: make the information clear, understandable and accessible,” said Martha Orzechowski, Global Director, Oncology Patient Group Relations at AstraZeneca. “Arming patients and families with knowledge to help them better understand their disease, diagnostics and treatments will enable them to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals and empower them to make their best healthcare decisions.”
The full survey results can be accessed via this summary report and this infographic.