Evaluation of the Japanese Gastric Cancer Association?s Gastric Cancer Treatment Guidelines for Popular Use

Background. The Japanese Gastric Cancer Association’s (JGCA’s) Gastric cancer treatment guidelines for doctors’ reference and the guidelines (GLs) for popular use were both published in 2001. The purpose of this study was to know whether or not it is useful for patients to read the GLs for popular use. Methods. We lent the GLs for popular use to patients with gastric cancer for several days and had them read the GLs before they were informed about their condition and the recommended treatment. Then they received questionnaires concerning the GLs. Results. Most of the patients, even the elderly, had read and understood the GLs. Nearly 70% of the patients answered that it was very useful for them to read the GLs. On the other hand, 34% of the patients suggested negative aspects, such that reading the GLs increased their anxiety about the disease or treatment. Only 9% of the patients expected treatment that followed the GLs, whereas 54% of the patients expected treatment based on the doctor’s own experience without adherence to the GLs. If the doctor were to suggest treatment that did not follow the GLs, 87% of the patients answered that they would follow the doctor’s suggestion, and it was only 8% who answered that they would seek a second opinion. These results did not differ when patients were requested to fill out questionnaires anonymously. Conclusion. Although the GLs for popular use are useful to provide patients with information concerning the disease and the treatment modalities, they may not have a great impact on patients’ decisions about their treatment.