The life cycle of evidence for novel chemotherapeutic agents in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Problem. The failure of evidence to be translated in practice is sometimes referred to as the research-practice gap and can result in the inefficient use of limited health care resources. Methodology. The thesis investigated the role of evidence in determining clinical recommendations and practice in lung cancer care. This was accomplished by simultaneously comparing the results of a systematic review of evidence, cumulative meta-analysis, recommendations, key milestones, and physician prescription database. Results. There was limited evidence found in the literature for two novel chemotherapeutic agents (NCA) in combination with platinum chemotherapy for the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite this, clinical recommendations for the use of these NCA were made within relatively short periods of time. There was rapid adoption of both NCA relative to recommendations by Ontario oncologists. Conclusion. Evidence-practice gaps in the treatment of advanced NSCLC are short and may even be premature or inappropriate.