Factors Influencing Adherence to Tumor Treating Fields in Glioblastoma Patients: A Study from China

Abstract Purpose Tumor treating fields (TTFields) are a type of non-invasive therapy approved for patients with glioblastoma (GBM), showing promising efficacy in both newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM. However, clinical data on the adherence and influencing factors of TTFields in China are scarce. Therefore, the present study analyzed patients’ adherence data to identify the current status of treatment adherence and its influencing factors. Methods A total of 94 GBM patients who received TTFields in our center were enrolled from September 2020 to December 2022. Patient demographic variables were collected, including age, gender, education, allergies, comorbidities, and other relevant details. Additionally, the incidence of dermatologic adverse events (dAEs), Karnofsky performance status, hospital anxiety and depression scale, the family concern index questionnaire, and treatment adherence were assessed at 3 and 6 months. Univariate and multivariate statistical techniques were applied to analyze factors influencing treatment adherence. Results Patients were followed up at 3 and 6 months during TTFields treatment, with follow-up rates of 93.62% and 86.17%, respectively. Statistically significant differences in full adherence were observed between 1-3- and 4-6-month periods (27.27% vs 41.98%, p = 0.044). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that dAEs and depression were independent predictors of adherence in the 1-3-month period. Age, dAEs, and family function were independent predictors of adherence in the 4-6-month period. Conclusion Adherence to TTFields is critical for the prognosis of GBM patients. The study findings demonstrated that patient adherence is influenced by various factors such as age, dAEs, depression, and family function. Thus, implementing targeted interventions tailored to patients’ needs at different stages can enhance treatment adherence.