Objective:

Tumor treating fields (Optune), despite effectively preventing further tumor growth and increasing life expectancy, is not prescribed by many neuro-oncologists or preferred by patients. This study aims to observe what demographics of patients prefer using Optune, and qualitative analysis of reasons patients may not want to use the device. 

Background:

Optune is a non-invasive antimitotic tumor treating field (TTF) device used for treating glioblastoma (GBM). The device works by aligning spindles, causing mitosis to be halted at metaphase and stop cell division. The device consists of an adhesive which is stuck to the bare scalp and is attached with wires to a device which is carried by the patient. The therapy increased the survival chances of patients who used optune and Temozolomide (TMZ) versus patients who only use TMZ, with chances of survival doubling at five-year. 

Design/Methods:

Using a patient population of all patients seen at the INOVA Schar Neuro-oncology clinic with glioblastomas from March 2020 to September 2023, a retrospective chart analysis was performed to extract patient data of various social demographics and notes about their Optune usage. 

Results:

Out of the 63 patients we have collected data on thus far, 28 (43.8%) of patients had successfully started Optune. 54% (19/35) males started Optune compared with 33% (9/27) of females (p=0.124) There was no difference in age between users and non-users (mean 63 vs 64, p=0.7). Only 1 out of 4 people whose first language was not English started Optune. Additional analyses on insurance type and socioeconomic status are ongoing. 

Conclusions:

There is a trend toward greater Optune use with males than females. Age does not predict Optune use. Data collection is ongoing.