Experiences and outcomes after Rectal Cancer Treatment with total neoadjuvant therapy.

Summary

We want to understand patient's experiences, perspectives and preference with locally advanced rectal cancer treatment in Alberta. Our study looks at patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (stage II/III), who are often treated first with chemotherapy and radiation, in what is called "total neoadjuvant treatment" or "TNT".

After TNT patients either receive surgery, or select patients undergo a non operative "watch and wait" strategy. Many regimens of chemoradiation exist. Our study looks at the outcomes of the different regiments both from a cancer perspective, as well as a quality of life perspective. We want to know from patients how their experience was, and what their priorities and perceptions are. Furthermore, we want to understand how the treatment impacts their bowel function and quality of life.

This study aims to create a database of patients with rectal cancer who have undergone TNT in Alberta. We are also providing an optional survey for patients at 1-year and 2-years post treatment, to be able to provide the patient perspective on their treatment experience.