Understanding impact of comorbidities on treatment recommendations for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in Australia, accounting for over 11% of all cancer deaths. Comorbid chronic disease is a significant concern in patients with CRC and there is limited consensus on how specific comorbidities in cancer patients impact on treatment recommendations in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings for CRC. In this project, we will conduct semi-structured interviews with 30 participants (colorectal MDT members and patients) at the Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH). The aims are to understand their views on the impact of comorbidities on treatment recommendations, the barriers in decision implementation, and possible improvements regarding decision making in MDT meetings and treatment experience for patients with CRC. This project will provide valuable information about the ways we can take to improve treatment and care management and achieve better outcomes for comorbid patients with CRC.