Co-creating the future of cancer treatment decision-making research

Background: Treatment decision-making in older adults with cancer is shaped by the interplay of comorbidities, limited evidence, and the involvement of multiple stakeholders - patients, caregivers, families, and healthcare professionals - whose priorities may converge or diverge in ways that remain poorly understood. Misalignments in perspectives and informational needs can impede effective decision-making and the effective implementation of research findings.
Aim: This project aims to investigate what matters most to each stakeholder group in the cancer treatment decision-making process, co-develop targeted support resources, and collaboratively define research priorities that reflect the lived experiences of those affected by cancer in Luxembourg.
Methods: The project employs a two-phase qualitative design. Phase 1 involves an open-ended multilingual online survey (Luxembourgish, English, French, German, Portuguese) recruiting participants across stakeholder groups. Phase 2 comprises World Café workshops, in which survey-derived themes will be explored through facilitated dialogue.
Expected outcomes: The project will produce co-designed support resources addressing key identified gaps. Findings will inform the implementation of ongoing research findings and interventions developed in partnership with advocacy organizations, ensuring alignment with the needs of Luxembourg's cancer community.