Objective To describe differences in preferred roles in cancer treatment decision-making and identify associated sociodemographic and health-related factors among adults in the United States.

Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative data from the 2014 Health Information National Trends Survey. Descriptive statistics were calculated and multivariable logistic regression was conducted to examine associations.

Results Half (48.3%) of respondents preferred a collaborative role in decision-making under the supposition of a moderate chance of survival; while 53.4% preferred a more active role when the chance of survival was low. Approximately 7%–8% indicated a preference for a passive role in decision-making, for both low and moderate chances of survival. Several predictors of role preference for cancer treatment decision-making emerged, including age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, and having a regular health care provider. At both low and moderate chances of survival, the college educated were less likely to prefer a passive role, whereas Hispanics were two to three times more likely than whites to indicate a preference for a passive role.

Conclusion Adults’ role preference for cancer treatment decision-making may be influenced by sociodemographic and health-related factors. Increased awareness of these factors, paired with enhanced patient–provider communication, may assist health care professionals in providing individualized and high-quality, patient-centered cancer care.