New drugs in thoracic oncology: Needs and knowledge – An online ERS lung cancer assembly survey

In the last decade, systemic therapy for advanced lung cancer has become diverse, complex and personalised. These new therapies (monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immunotherapy) have a far different toxicity profile compared to chemotherapy. Furthermore, clinical indications and reimbursement criteria can vary across Europe. The aim of the present online survey was to assess the knowledge, views and challenges facing the European respiratory community in this rapidly changing field. A 15-question web survey was sent to all European Respiratory Society members through the Society’s monthly electronic communication. A total of 315 questionnaires were completed. Most of the respondents were male (59.1%), were above 40 years of age (52.9%) and were working in university/academic hospitals (74.8%), the majority as pulmonologists (90%). Only 55% of the participants were aware of the legal processes for drug recognition. Except for epidermal growth factor receptor TKI, up to 38% did not know about the specific toxicities of anaplastic lymphoma kinase/ROS proto-oncogene 1 TKIs, monoclonal antibodies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Of the respondents, 92% showed an interest in an online platform reporting new drugs’ toxicities. Despite a large amount of publicity and integration of new drugs into therapeutic algorithms and clinical guidelines, physicians taking care of lung cancer patients have a need for up-to-date information on systemic therapy toxicity management and legal constraints.