Patient decision aids in colorectl cancer: a review

Abstract

Aim: The objective is to collect available patient decision aids (PDA) for colorectal cancer in any of the stages of the disease and to gather published studies about the use of these tools in the last ten years Methods: A systematic review (SR) of tools for Decision-making Aid in colorectal cancer was performed since year 2000. Search includes main databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Cochrane) as well as websites of institutions working with PDAs to search available tools. Results: After the appraisal of the found articles, we finally selected 10 studies with PDA for colorectal cancer in which patients preferences in the decision making process, disseminating strategies of the tools or the way of presenting patient information were assessed. Through the websites of institutions working with PDAs we found six tools about screening in colorectal cancer. Conclusions: There is a growing interest to involve patients with colorectal cancer in the decision making process. To do so, it’s necessary to assess patients’ values and preferences and that’s why PDAs are effective in helping both, professionals and patients. They are useful for professionals for this assessment process, and also for patients, not just to make a decision but also for being satisfied with the final decision