WP 3.12: Venous thromboembolism in patients with primary lung cancer: Integrating information strategies in clinical practice

Timely identification and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE), particularly pulmonary embolism, in lung cancer patients is challenging and crucial for prevention, early detection, treatment, and prognosis. VTE in lung cancer patients results increases morbidity and premature death. There is no reliable risk assessment tool for predicting VTE risk in lung cancer. The overlapping symptoms of VTE and lung cancer complicate timely diagnosis and treatment. Health care professionals’ (HCP) communication regarding VTE is generally inadequate.
This project aims to explore the experience of VTE symptoms in the context of lung cancer. Specifically, we will explore and characterize the experience and perception of symptoms and signs of VTE in relation to lung cancer symptoms. In a co-creation process involving workshops with patients and HCPs, we will develop, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of an information video integrated into a digital care guide. The video will account for the symptomatic profile of pulmonary embolism in lung cancer. We will collaborate with patients and HCPs to identify relevant endpoints for measuring the video’s effectiveness covering aspects such as awareness, symptom, morbidity, mortality, health care resource utilization, quality of life, and satisfaction.
The video will be implemented in clinical practice in an existing digital care guide. With a pre-post design, the study will compare outcomes in lung cancer patients with VTE before and after implementation. Ultimately, this project aims to facilitate effective, personalized treatment decisions to reduce adverse events and healthcare costs, with potential for national implementation and adaption to other cancer populations.

Awarded to: Thomas Decker Christensen (Aarhus Universitetshospital) – CFA3

Awarded grant to support VIP and TAP personnel.