RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Tradeoffs in Patient Decision Making About Rectal Cancer Treatment: Benefits Compared to Quality Of Life.

This study aims to understand how people with bowel (rectal) cancer, and their doctors, choose between different treatments. Researchers want to find out what influences these decisions, especially when it comes to balancing the benefits of a treatment (like being cured) against the impact it might have on a person's daily life. It also looks at how a person's background might play a role in their choices. Participants will complete two online questionnaires about their thoughts and preferences, with an information booklet given in between. The three main, effective treatment options for rectal cancer will be explored.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Sir Mortimer B. Davis - Jewish General Hospital

Enrolment target

192

Start

13 Dec 2021

Estimated completion

01 Jan 2028

Patient Preference

What is this study about?

Imagine you have bowel cancer, and there are a few good treatment options. Some might offer a very strong chance of getting rid of the cancer, but come with big changes to your daily life. Others might be less intensive, but perhaps not as strong against the cancer. This study is all about understanding how people like you, and even your doctors, think about these choices.

Researchers want to see if factors like your personal situation, or your financial background, affect what you choose. More importantly, they aim to understand the balancing act between what you gain from a treatment (like living longer or being cured) and what you might give up in terms of your everyday quality of life during and after treatment. They're particularly interested in how you weigh up these different aspects.

By taking part, you'd be helping doctors and researchers understand patients' priorities better. This insight could eventually lead to better ways of discussing treatment options, ensuring patients feel more supported and understood when making these very important decisions about their health.

Key takeaways

It's a survey-based study, not a treatment trial.
Aims to understand how patients and doctors choose treatments.
Focuses on balancing treatment benefits with quality of life.
Involves two online questionnaires and an information booklet.
Participation will help improve future patient-doctor discussions.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two groups of people: adults (over 18) who have recently been diagnosed with bowel (rectal) cancer that can be safely operated on, and doctors who treat this type of cancer.

To join, you must be able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part by signing a consent form. You also need to be able to complete questionnaires online using a computer or tablet. Importantly, for patients, if your cancer has spread to other parts of your body, or if it's a type that has come back after previous treatment, you won't be able to join this particular study.

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 18 years old or older?
Have you recently been diagnosed with operable rectal (bowel) cancer?
Can you complete online questionnaires using a computer or tablet?
Can you understand the study information and agree to take part?
Has your cancer not spread to other parts of your body?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, the process is straightforward. First, you'll be asked to provide your consent electronically, meaning you agree to participate. You will then complete a first online questionnaire. This questionnaire will ask about your personal background, your health information, and what you currently know about bowel cancer treatments.

After finishing the first questionnaire, you will receive an electronic information brochure. This brochure will explain the different treatment options for bowel cancer, including how long they take, what side effects they might have, and how well they work against the cancer. Finally, you'll complete a second online questionnaire, which will ask about your treatment preferences and how you weigh up different aspects of treatment. All questionnaires and the brochure will be accessed online, and there are no hospital visits or medications involved.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study involves very little risk, mainly a small amount of your time. Potential benefits include contributing to a better understanding of patient preferences, which could improve how treatment options are discussed in the future. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Jewish General Hospital
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

To understand how patients and doctors choose between different bowel cancer treatments, looking at what matters most, like cure rates versus quality of life.

Do I have to take any new medication if I join?

No, this study does not involve any medication or new treatments. It's about gathering information through questionnaires.

How long will it take to complete the study?

You will complete two online questionnaires and read an information brochure. The total time commitment is expected to be quite short, likely under an hour in total.

What if I change my mind after joining?

You can leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Will my answers be kept private?

Yes, all your responses will be handled confidentially to protect your privacy.

How to find out more

Emma Starr, BHSc

emma.starr.ccomtl@ssss.gouv.qc.ca 514-340-8222 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.