Attitudes Toward Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Cancer-Related Psychosocial Symptoms: A Multi- Stakeholder Analysis

Abstract Background Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is gaining attention as a potential treatment for cancer-related psychosocial symptoms. While growing evidence highlights its promise, little is known about how different stakeholder groups perceive its use in oncology and palliative care.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess stakeholder-specific perspectives on PAT, including attitudes, perceived knowledge, agent-specific beliefs, safety and effectiveness, implementation barriers, and interest in training and access. Predictors of positive attitudes were also examined.

Methods: A national cross-sectional survey was conducted across Canada. Measures included the Attitudes to Psychedelics Questionnaire (APQ), self-rated knowledge, perceived effectiveness and safety of psychedelic agents, implementation barriers, and views on appropriate patient populations. Group comparisons were conducted using Kruskal–Wallis tests, ANOVA, and post hoc analyses; multivariate linear regression identified predictors of attitudes.

Results: A total of 742 participants were included: cancer patients (PLWC; n = 519), healthcare providers (HCP; n = 187), and policymakers (PM; n = 36). PLWC reported the most favourable attitudes toward PAT, significantly higher than both HCP and PM. Despite their positive views, PLWC self-reported the lowest knowledge. PM reported the highest perceived knowledge but also the greatest safety concerns. Across all groups, psilocybin was viewed as the most effective agent. PLWC and HCP supported PAT use across the cancer continuum, while most PM favoured restricting use to advanced-stage cases.

Conclusion: Stakeholder perspectives on PAT reveal high interest tempered by role-specific concerns about safety, legitimacy, and readiness. Effective and ethical integration of PAT into oncology will require stakeholder-informed education, regulatory guidance, and attention to contextual implementation needs.