Claire Taylor explores what patients who have undergone radiotherapy for pelvic cancers want to know

A patient survey was conducted to determine satisfaction with information provision during pelvic radiotherapy and identify any unmet information needs. A questionnaire was designed that incorporated questions from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Group information questionnaire. Eligible patients were identified from a database of those who had received treatment at the cancer centre over an 18-month period. Eighty three patients were sent the questionnaire and 58 (70%) responded. Nearly half would have liked more information and none wanted less. More than two thirds of respondents stated they had received written information, which in half of cases was offered by a nurse. Information on potential late effects of radiotherapy was well received, with most indicating a preference to be offered it before treatment. Continuing review of an individual’s information prescription throughout the cancer pathway is recommended.