A Scoping Review of Time Toxicity in Cancer Patients

Background: Time toxicity has emerged as a critical concept describing the time burdens imposed on cancer patients by treatments and healthcare interactions. While recent narrative reviews have introduced the concept and discussed influencing factors qualitatively, there is a lack of systematic evidence synthesis regarding the scope of research activity. Specifically, no study has yet quantified the distribution of research types or systematically mapped the available intervention strategies across the entire cancer trajectory using rigorous scoping review methodology. Objective: This scoping review aims to systematically map the existing literature on time toxicity in cancer patients. Unlike previous narrative reviews, this study will strictly follow the JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines to: Quantify the volume, year, and geographical distribution of research in this field. Systematically categorize the measurement tools currently used to assess time burden. Map the available nursing and healthcare interventions aimed at minimizing time toxicity. Methods: We will conduct a comprehensive search in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and CNKI. We will include studies involving adult cancer patients at all disease stages (from curative to palliative care). Data will be charted and visualized to identify research gaps and provide a reference for clinical practice.