The experience of financial toxicity among advanced melanoma patients treated with immunotherapy

Abstract

<b>Purpose</b> To measure financial toxicity and explore its association with quality of life (QOL) in an emerging population of survivors: advanced melanoma patients treated with immunotherapy. <b>Design</b> Cross-sectional survey and medical record review. <b>Sample</b> 106 survivors (39% response). Median time since start of immunotherapy was 36.4 months (range: 14.2-133.9). <b>Methods</b> The Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity measured financial toxicity, and the EORTC-QLQ30 assessed QOL and functioning across five domains. Data were collected online, by phone, or in clinic. <b>Findings</b>: Younger patients (<65 years) reported higher financial toxicity (<i>p</i> < .001) than older patients. Controlling for age, financial toxicity was correlated with QOL (<i>p</i> < .001), financial difficulties (<i>p</i> < .001), and EORTC-QLQ30 functioning subscales. <b>Conclusions</b> Given the demonstrated association between financial toxicity and QOL, our study highlights the importance of addressing financial toxicity, particularly among patients receiving high-cost treatments. <b>Implications for Psychosocial Providers</b>: Providers should educate patients and their caregivers about cost-management techniques, link them with available resources, and provide psychosocial counseling to alleviate related distress.