Delivering bad news is an essential part of daily medical practice, especially in gynecological oncology. Despite the frequency of these conversations, delivering bad news poses a significant challenge for many physicians. Studies emphasize the need for communication training to strengthen the confidence of medical staff and reduce the fear of such conversations. However, there are currently few studies on this topic, particularly in German-speaking countries, where research is lacking that captures the perspective of female patients when receiving bad news in gynecological oncology. To close this gap, the Expression 20 survey was planned.

What is the aim of the survey?

The aim of this survey is to capture and analyze the perspective of female patients when receiving bad news. Differences between women with and without a migration background will be investigated. It is assumed that patients generally see a need for improvement in the delivery of bad news. In addition, the study aims to explore whether women with a migration background feel less well informed compared to women without a migration background, and whether they have a need for intercultural competencies and services.

What is the survey procedure?

A total of 500 female patients are to be surveyed for the study. The survey is anonymous, and data will be collected using a questionnaire, which will be available in paper form at the participating study centers. The questionnaire is available in 4 languages – German, Turkish, Arabic, and English.

The questionnaire is divided into 2 parts:

1. Sociodemographic questions
   – 15 questions about the person (age, educational status, partnership, mother tongue, place of birth) and the tumor disease
2. Conversation questions
   – 46 questions about a conversation in which bad news regarding the illness was conveyed. The questions relate in particular to the patient’s feelings and wishes during this conversation and the time after the conversation.

Are there any risks?

The Expression 20 is a survey study and therefore has no participation risks.

Participation requirements:

Women with gynecological-oncological tumor diseases, including borderline tumors, may participate in this survey. The minimum age is 18 years. Only women living in Germany will be included.

Where can I participate in the survey?

The study is currently being conducted in Berlin at the Department of Gynecology of the Charité at Virchow-Klinikum and at the Vivantes Klinikum am Urban.

Participation is now also possible online!