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Qualitative Research Informing a Preference Study on Selecting Cannabis for Cancer Survivor Symptom Management: Design of a Discrete Choice Experiment

Author

Listed:
  • Colene Bentley

    (BC Cancer Research Institute
    Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control)

  • Sara Izadi-Najafabadi

    (BC Cancer Research Institute
    Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control)

  • Adam Raymakers

    (BC Cancer Research Institute
    Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control
    Simon Fraser University)

  • Helen McTaggart-Cowan

    (BC Cancer Research Institute
    Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control
    Simon Fraser University)

Abstract

Introduction The legalization of recreational cannabis use can enable cancer survivors to manage aspects of their care with cannabinoids without medical authorization or stigmatization. However, the absence of medical guidance—from the scientific literature or the healthcare system—makes it difficult for survivors to reach informed decisions about their care. Objective This article outlines the qualitative research undertaken to design a discrete choice experiment (DCE) aimed at understanding Canadian cancer survivors’ preferences for managing their cancer symptoms with cannabis in this complex socio-medical context. Methods In this study, we drew on previously published qualitative research (a literature review and interviews with cancer survivors) and the theory of planned behavior, holding weekly team meetings to review the qualitative data and identify initial attributes associated with medicinal cannabis consumption to inform the DCE design. The initial attributes were further assessed to determine whether they were sensitive to the Canadian context, modifiable to produce levels and trade-offs, and amenable to policy intervention, in order to form the DCE choice sets. The choice sets were tested via think-aloud exercises with members of the general population and included debriefing interviews. Think-aloud participants were recruited from patient groups and previous studies. Results Based on our review of the interview study, we identified the following attributes associated with selecting medicinal cannabis: effectiveness; chance of side effects; support from family, friends, and/or physicians; cost; and availability. Ability to perform everyday activities was added and monthly out-of-pocket cost was refined to render the DCE realistic to cancer survivors in the Canadian context. Revisions to the DCE instructions, terminology, and cost levels were made based on results from the think-aloud exercises (n = 10). Conclusions This qualitative study outlines the preference evidence collected regarding Canadian cancer survivors’ decisions to manage their symptoms with cannabis to inform a DCE quantitative survey. It contributes to transparent reporting of qualitative work in DCE development and to understanding cancer survivors’ preferences regarding medicinal cannabis consumption under legalization.

Suggested Citation

  • Colene Bentley & Sara Izadi-Najafabadi & Adam Raymakers & Helen McTaggart-Cowan, 2022. "Qualitative Research Informing a Preference Study on Selecting Cannabis for Cancer Survivor Symptom Management: Design of a Discrete Choice Experiment," The Patient: Patient-Centered Outcomes Research, Springer;International Academy of Health Preference Research, vol. 15(4), pages 497-507, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:patien:v:15:y:2022:i:4:d:10.1007_s40271-021-00567-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s40271-021-00567-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Caroline Vass & Dan Rigby & Katherine Payne, 2017. "The Role of Qualitative Research Methods in Discrete Choice Experiments," Medical Decision Making, , vol. 37(3), pages 298-313, April.
    2. Ryan, Mandy, 1999. "Using conjoint analysis to take account of patient preferences and go beyond health outcomes: an application to in vitro fertilisation," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 48(4), pages 535-546, February.
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