Patient-Friendly Health Literacy Resources for Cancer Patients and Caregivers

Being diagnosed with cancer can be overwhelming for anyone due to the emotional impact, level of uncertainty, and potential lifestyle changes. The challenges of accessing and understanding medical information introduce additional layers of complexity when patients navigate their care. Disparities and inequities can further restrict an individual’s capacity to develop the skills they need to look after their health.

It is not enough for Pfizer to simply develop breakthrough medicines. We must help patients understand cancer, and cancer care, to impact as many people as possible. Proficiency in health literacy is vital to improving patient outcomes.

To address this, Pfizer Oncology co-created a range of materials on This is Living with Cancer aimed at helping individuals understand the scientific landscape. These resources serve as a guide and can be used for patients, caregivers, or anyone needing some extra help on their journey. I’m proud of these resources we’ve developed for patients, and I hope individuals will utilize them, so they feel empowered to make decisions related to their care.

• Understanding the Clinical Trial Process: Comprehending the complexities of the clinical trial process can be challenging, still it remains crucial to enable patients living with cancer to make well-informed decisions regarding their care. Reference this resource to better understand the clinical trial process.
• Navigating Clinical Trial Information Websites: During your cancer care, you may be interested in participating in a clinical trial, however finding one that suits your needs may be overwhelming. Learn how to identify the right clinical trial for you.
• Four Tips for Finding Medical Information Online: Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation on the internet about cancer. While the internet can be a helpful resource for people living with cancer, it’s important that the information is reliable, clear, and from a reputable source. Here are some tips to find medical information online.
• How to Read an Abstract for a Clinical Trial Publication: There are countless research articles that provide information on clinical trials for many different types of cancer. Learn how to read and interpret abstracts from research articles or scientific publications focused on cancer.
• Common Terms Used in Abstracts and Research Articles for Clinical Trials: Words used in abstracts and research articles for cancer clinical trials can be difficult to understand. This guide builds off and complements, “How to Read an Abstract for a Clinical Trial Publication.” Check out this list of terms commonly used in publications for cancer clinical trial results.
• Abstract Plain Language Summaries at Scientific Congresses: Abstract Plain Language Summaries (aPLS) are resources that make data presented at medical meetings easier to understand to the layperson. Find out more about this tool to understand the appropriate use of aPLS when it comes to cancer care.
• The Basics of Medical Meetings: It’s important for patients to understand what medical meetings are and how the information or data that is shared there can impact their cancer care. Check out the resource to better understand what a medical meeting is, who attends, and why they’re important.

While these resources are just a step towards improving health literacy, I know how imperative it is that we continue to provide accessible information that elevates the patient voice and addresses key barriers to cancer care. Pfizer is committed to continuing to make actionable change so patients around the world can obtain, understand, and implement medical information to help them achieve the best possible outcomes. Check out this video to learn more about Pfizer Oncology’s dedication to addressing health literacy:

Learn how breaking down barriers related to language, limited resources, age, and where patients live can help them make informed decisions about their cancer care.

By Dany Habr

Oncology Chief Medical Affairs Officer, Pfizer

Dany Habr is Senior Vice President and Oncology Chief Medical Affairs Officer at Pfizer, overseeing the oncology portfolio and medical organization. He has co-authored 43 manuscripts and more than 80 abstracts in the fields of hematology-oncology and health equity and has presented at major medical conferences across the globe.