Gastric cancer patient insights: Patient-reported outcomes and real-world perspectives from the gastric cancer patient community.

362 Background: According to the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, an estimated 26,890 patients in the United States will be diagnosed with gastric (stomach) cancer in 2024. Estimated deaths from the disease in 2024 will reach 10,880, with a five-year relative survival rate of 36%. Understanding the need for increased gastric cancer education and awareness, the GI Cancers Alliance created a 12-month series of engagement opportunities to better understand and listen to the gastric cancer patient voice and perspectives. Methods: Our 12-month patient-reported outcomes (PRO) research (September 2023 – August 2024) included an online survey, in person and virtual focus groups, and personalized follow-up interviews. 651 gastric cancer patients and survivors participated in these engagement opportunities, with 89% of participants asking for follow-up personalized interviews. One of our program goals was to reach and interact with patients who often experience barriers in receiving quality cancer care. Our PRO research provided an opportunity to amplify the patient voice and lived experience by engaging patients in medically underserved communities, rural and urban populations, diverse ethnic communities, and patients receiving care in community-based and federally funded oncology centers, and charity (indigent) care. Results: Overarching results from our study suggest that while advances have been made, health equity, racial disparities and barriers in cancer care remain a challenge. 651 patient participants (43% male, 54% female, 3% non-binary) identified their race/ethnicity as: 24% Black/African American, 22% Hispanic, 21% Multiracial, Non-Hispanic/White 19%, Asian/Pacific Islander 7%, Native American 2%, and 5% Other. 69% of patients reported that their clinician did not suggest biomarker testing, nor discuss the role of biomarkers to help make informed treatment decisions. 68% of patients were concerned that they lacked knowledge and options to make informed decisions regarding their treatment. 64% of patients reported they suffered from mental health concerns ranging from severe depression, feelings of hopelessness and anxiety; 63% of patients struggled to afford nutritious food to meet their changing dietary needs, especially post-surgery. Conclusions: Our PRO research underscores the need for increased education and outreach for gastric cancer patient communities experiencing barriers to high quality cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. By partnering with our 100+ advocacy partner organizations, we will continue to amplify the gastric cancer patient voice by establishing new programming, initiatives, and enhanced outreach addressing the challenges and barriers to quality cancer care for all patients.