New Survey Highlights Patient Struggles with Endometrial Cancer Treatment at 2026 SGO Meeting
The 2026 Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico, spotlighted urgent patient voices as findings from a new survey revealed dramatic insights into the experiences of individuals battling endometrial cancer. Conducted by Eisai Inc. and strategic partners including the Endometrial Cancer Action Network for African-Americans (ECANA), Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE), and the Foundation for Women's Cancer (FWC), the survey focused on 119 patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer in the U.S. who have undergone chemotherapy. With more than 60,000 new cases of endometrial cancer reported annually in the U.S., it is critical to understand patient sentiments around the treatment landscape.
Survey Findings
Survey results unveiled that 70% of the patients felt the stress of chemotherapy was comparably burdensome to the cancer itself. Furthermore, a staggering 71% expressed a desire to avoid future chemotherapy treatments. Participants voiced significant concern over the emotional and physical toll chemotherapy took on their lives, with nearly 95% experiencing hair loss, a common side effect. Alongside this, many reported long-term complications, including fatigue (51%) and neuropathy (42%).
Interestingly, the study pointed out disparities in patient experiences, especially highlighting differences among patients of color. Those identifying as Black or Hispanic felt less informed regarding their treatment options compared to White respondents, with 62% versus 79%, respectively. This disparity underscores the pressing need for tailored communication strategies that address the unique challenges faced by these communities.
Dr. Ginger J. Gardner, leading author and gynecologic oncologist, emphasized the survey's call for healthcare providers to foster transparent discussions with patients. Many respondents desired a more prominent role in decision-making about their treatment, with 79% wanting more time spent by their provider discussing treatment matters that mattered to them personally. Given that 91% of patients wished to learn more about treatments beyond chemotherapy, there's an evident demand for personalized treatment plans.
This survey serves as a reminder of the hope and resilience within the endometrial cancer community, as patients express the importance of having their voices heard in the medical world.
The Importance of Communication
The emphasis on collaborative care is echoed by the findings that a significant gap exists between how often patients feel informed about their treatment options and how often they wish to be involved in discussions surrounding them. This highlights not only the need for educational resources but also for physicians to adopt a more inclusive approach in treatment discussions. Many respondents felt overwhelmed by their treatment journey and expressed the need for additional support and information. While chemotherapy remains a standard component in treating endometrial cancer, the rising call for alternative treatments and inclusive dialogue suggests a shift in patient expectations and needs.
Encouragingly, the survey outcomes will be formally presented as a poster, titled "Endometrial Cancer: The Patient Voice is Center Stage", during the SGO Annual Meeting later this week, further amplifying the crucial conversation around patient experiences in cancer treatments.
Conclusion
As the meeting unfolds, the medical community is reminded of the profound impact that treatment burdens can impose upon patients and the undeniable importance of dialogue and patient involvement in cancer care. The findings from this survey not only lend credence to existing patient sentiments but also open discussions on the necessity of tailored treatment paths. With endometrial cancer becoming increasingly prevalent, moving forward with informed patient interactions will be vital to improving care outcomes.
Such insights can help guide future strategies in counseling and treatment choices, underscoring an evolving landscape in oncology that prioritizes patient-centered care above all else.