S2656
RTT - Patient experience and quality of life
ESTRO 2026
1 Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. 2 CancerResearch@UCC, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. 3 Radiation Oncology Department, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland Purpose/Objective: Radiotherapy is a common and effective treatment for gynaecological cancers; however, it is frequently associated with complex long-term side effects that impact patients’ physical, sexual, and emotional wellbeing. Evidence suggests that many patients feel inadequately informed about managing these effects, particularly after treatment concludes (1). Survivors of gynaecological cancer have reported significant gaps in post-treatment education and support (2). This study investigates whether patients who have undergone radiation therapy for gynaecological malignancies perceive a need for a structured information session at the end of treatment, addressing a recognised gap in continuity of care. Material/Methods: An ethically approved qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews to explore participants’ experiences with post-treatment information and their views on the potential value of a structured information session. Interviews were audio- recorded and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six- phase thematic analysis (3). To enhance rigour, AI- assisted coding was used as a secondary tool to verify the resultant themes. Eligible participants were adults ( ≥ 18 years) who had completed a course of radical radiation therapy for a gynaecological malignancy within the past five years, had the cognitive ability to recall their post-treatment experience, and were able to provide informed consent. Results: Analysis of interviews with two participants revealed four key themes: Lack of Structured Post-Treatment Education – Participants reported receiving minimal, informal, and predominantly verbal information at the end of treatment, with no structured discharge process or written materials to guide them through the recovery period.Gaps in Follow-Up Support – There was a perceived lack of continuity in care, with limited follow-up and no clear pathway for addressing ongoing concerns.Emotional and Psychological Fallout – The end of treatment was described as abrupt and disorienting, with participants experiencing anxiety and vulnerability during the transition back to daily life, and a lack of validation for lingering emotional or physical issues.Self-Navigation and Systemic Barriers – Survivors often had to navigate complex healthcare systems independently, were unaware of available support services, and expressed frustration at not being signposted to appropriate resources.These findings underscore a consistent need for structured
post-treatment education and guidance. Conclusion:
This study highlights the importance of implementing structured post-treatment education for patients receiving radiotherapy for gynaecological cancers. Such interventions may enhance patient preparedness, support survivorship, and improve long-term outcomes. Further research is warranted to explore this need across a broader patient population. References: 1. Nicolaije KAH, Husson O, Ezendam NPM, Vos MC, Kruitwagen RFPM, Lybeert MLM, et al. Endometrial cancer survivors are unsatisfied with received information about diagnosis, treatment and follow-up: A study from the population-based PROFILES registry. Patient Education and Counseling. 2012;88(3):427-352. Faller H, Brähler E, Härter M, Keller M, Schulz H, Wegscheider K, et al. Unmet needs for information and psychosocial support in relation to quality of life and emotional distress: A comparison between gynecological and breast cancer patients. Patient Education and Counseling. 2017;100(10):1934- 42.3. Braun V, Clarke V. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qual Res Psychol. 2006;3(2):77–101. doi:10.1191/1478088706qp063oa Keywords: continuity of care, education, The perceptions and knowledge of men who received radiotherapy for prostate cancer of bladder and bowel preparation protocols Nicole Coughlan 1 , Annemarie Devine 1 , Caoimhe Foster 1 , Andrew England 1 , Martin Higgins 2 , Theresa O' Donovan 1 1 Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. 2 Radiation Oncology Department, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland Purpose/Objective: External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is a standard definitive treatment for men with localised prostate cancer, offering cancer control outcomes comparable to radical prostatectomy (1). A key component of EBRT is consistent bladder and bowel preparation, which helps optimise treatment delivery and reduce toxicity Digital Poster 1553 (2). However, there is limited research on the information provided to patients regarding these protocols and their experiences during treatment. This study aimed to explore the knowledge and experiences of men with prostate cancer regarding bladder and bowel preparation throughout their radiotherapy journey.
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online