How do CDK4/6 inhibitors affect daily life for older adults?
A study exploring what it’s like for people aged 65 and over to take CDK4/6 inhibitors after surgery for primary breast cancer.
What’s the title of the study?
Exploring the older patients experience of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK4/6) inhibitors in the adjuvant breast cancer setting. A qualitative semi-structured interview study conducted in the UK.
What’s the project about?
Treatments called CDK4/6 inhibitors are increasingly being used after surgery to reduce the risk of primary breast cancer coming back. But we still know relatively little about what it’s like to take these treatments as an older adult.
This study focuses on people aged 65 and over who are taking abemaciclib or ribociclib following surgery for primary breast cancer.
The researchers want to understand the realities of treatment. Why people choose to take these medicines. How side effects affect day-to-day life. And how other health conditions or taking multiple medications might shape their experience.
By listening to older adults directly, the study aims to improve the information, support and care offered to future patients receiving these treatments.
Who’s organising it?
Name of project lead: Sarah Loizou
Job title: MSc Student Advanced Practice
Organisation: University of Surrey
Email address: sl02428@surrey.ac.uk
Who can take part?
You can take part if you:
- Are aged 65 or over
- Have been diagnosed with primary breast cancer
- Had surgery within the last 2 years
- Started treatment with abemaciclib or ribociclib within the last year
- Live in the UK
- Have a good understanding of spoken and written English
Please note, you cannot take part if you are receiving treatment at Royal Surrey County Hospital.
Why do you want me to be involved?
Older adults make up a large proportion of people diagnosed with breast cancer, but their experiences are often underrepresented in research.
By sharing your experience, you can help researchers understand the benefits and challenges of taking CDK4/6 inhibitors later in life. Your insights could help healthcare professionals better support future patients, improve conversations about treatment decisions, and identify areas where more research is needed.
What will you ask me to do?
You’ll be invited to take part in a one-off interview lasting 30 to 60 minutes.
The interview will take place by Microsoft Teams or telephone, depending on your preference.
You’ll be asked about:
- How you were informed about treatment
- Your reasons for choosing to take the medication
- Any side effects you’ve experienced
- How treatment has affected your daily life
- Whether you feel your experiences have been understood by your healthcare team
The researchers are also keen to hear from people from underrepresented groups, including people from ethnic minority backgrounds.
As a thank you for your time, you’ll receive £25 after completing the interview.
How do I get involved?
To find out more or register your interest, please email Sarah at sl02428@surrey.ac.uk
When’s the deadline?
29 September 2026
Get involved
Take part in the study and help researchers understand how older adults can be better supported to make the best treatment decisions for them.