The wellbeing-informed shared decisions about oncology management study
This study, called WISDOM, looks at how to help older people (aged 65 and over) with advanced stomach or lung cancer make important decisions about their treatment. Many older patients also live with 'frailty,' which can make recovering from illness or treatment harder. The study tests a new way of working called the WISDOM approach. This approach helps doctors and patients discuss treatment options by also considering things like their overall well-being and frailty. The aim is to make sure treatment choices are more personal and better suited to each patient's needs. The findings will help improve this approach for wider use in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When people get older and have advanced cancer, they often have to make difficult choices about their treatment. Some older people also experience 'frailty'. This isn't just about age; it's a health condition that means your body might find it harder to bounce back from illness or medical treatments. If you're frail, treatments can sometimes have more side effects or complications. Often, whether someone is frail isn't always fully discussed in standard cancer appointments, which means important factors might be missed when deciding on a treatment plan.
This study, called WISDOM, wants to change that. It's testing a new approach designed to help patients and their doctors make more personal and informed choices about cancer treatment. The WISDOM approach focuses on bringing up discussions about a patient's frailty and overall well-being during their cancer appointment. This helps make sure that the treatment plan chosen is the best fit for that individual, taking into account all their circumstances, not just the cancer itself.
This is a 'feasibility study,' which means it's an early step to see if the WISDOM approach is practical and works well in real life. The information gathered will be used to improve the approach and plan a larger study later on. This bigger study would then properly check if the WISDOM approach truly helps patients get better care.
Key takeaways
- Aims to help older people (65+) with advanced tummy or lung cancer.
- Focuses on personalised treatment decisions by considering frailty and well-being.
- Tests a new approach called WISDOM in cancer appointments.
- Involves short assessments, information, and questionnaires.
- No direct risks, but emotional support will be available.
- It's a study to improve how doctors and patients make decisions together.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you are 65 years old or older and have advanced cancer that has affected your stomach, bowel, or lungs. This refers to cancers like colorectal, anal, stomach, pancreas, or lung cancer that doctors are considering treating with medication to control it, rather than surgery to remove it.
To be included, you would be referred to a cancer clinic in Leeds for your first appointment about possible drug treatment. You must also be able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part, and be able to fill out some short questionnaires, with a bit of help if you need it.
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you can't understand what you're agreeing to, or if you can't complete the questionnaires even with help.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 65 years old or older?
- Do you have advanced cancer in your gut (stomach/bowel) or lungs?
- Are you being referred to a cancer clinic in Leeds for possible drug treatment?
- Can you understand what the study involves and fill out short forms, with help if needed?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, it would involve a few steps. First, before your main cancer appointment, you'll have a short check-up to look at your well-being and if you have any signs of frailty. You'll also be given some clear, easy-to-understand information to help you prepare for discussing your treatment choices with your doctor.
During your cancer appointment, your doctor will use the special WISDOM approach. This means they will talk with you about your treatment options while also considering your overall well-being. After your first appointment, you'll be asked to fill out a couple of short questionnaires. These will check your quality of life and how you found the process, usually around 2 and then 8 weeks later. Some people taking part might also be asked to do an interview to share their experiences of the WISDOM approach and being in the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS TrustCity onlyLeeds, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'frailty' in this study?
Frailty means your body might find it harder to cope with illnesses or treatments, not just how old you are. The study wants to make sure this is considered when planning your care.
What does 'advanced cancer' mean?
Advanced cancer means the cancer has spread or cannot be cured with surgery. The study focuses on drug treatments to control this type of cancer.
Where is the study taking place and for how long?
The study is based at Leeds Cancer Centre in the UK and runs from October 2022 to July 2026.
Will I get special treatment if I join?
The study aims to help you and your doctor make more informed, personalised decisions using the WISDOM approach. This might feel like more personal care.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.
How to find out more
Jessica Pearce
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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