(HealthDay News) — The UR-GOAL communication tool is useful for managing older adults with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML), according to a study published in Cancer Medicine.
The UR-GOAL tool addresses aging-related vulnerabilities, patient values, and prognostic awareness. Researchers examined the feasibility and usefulness of UR-GOAL in treatment decision-making between older adults with newly diagnosed AML, their caregivers, and oncologists.
The researchers assessed retention rate, recruitment rate, usefulness, and outcomes, including AML knowledge and perceived efficacy in communicating with oncologists. Data were included for 15 AML patients, 12 caregivers, and 5 oncologists.
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The enrollment and retention rates were 84% and 73%, respectively. Patients agreed that the UR-GOAL tool helped with understanding about their AML diagnosis and options for treatment, communication with oncologists, and with informed decision-making.
From baseline to postintervention, patients and caregivers scored numerically higher on AML knowledge (+0.6 and +1.1, respectively) and perceived greater efficacy in communicating with oncologists (+1.5 and +1.2, respectively).
“Innovative interventions, such as the UR-GOAL tool, which address challenges specific to older adults with AML are critical to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population,” the researchers wrote.
One researcher disclosed financial ties to Pfizer and Seattle Genetics.
