Perceived cancer-related pain and fatigue, information needs, and fear of cancer recurrence among adult survivors of childhood cancer

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Cognitive Functioning Scale (PedsQLTM-CFS) in children with cancer

The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Cognitive Functioning Scale (PedsQLTM-CFS) was developed as a brief, general, symptom-specific tool to measure cognitive function. The 6-item PedsQL™ Cognitive Functioning Scale and PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module answered 369 parents and 330 children with 5-18 years. Parents also completed Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). The PedsQL™ Cognitive Functioning Scale evidenced excellent reliability (parent proxy-report α = 0.980/Fleiss Kappa: 0.794; children self-report α = 0.963/Fleiss Kappa: 0.790). Both child self-report and parent proxy-report PedsQL™ Cognitive Functioning Scale scores exhibited significant correlations with all parent-report BRIEF summary and subscale scores (p < .05). Both child self-report and parent proxy-report PedsQL™ Cognitive Functioning Scale scores exhibited significant correlations with PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module total score and subscale scores (p < .05). The PedsQLTM-CFS can be used in high-risk populations with substantial to perfect reliability, both in regards to total/subcategory scores as well as in children with cancer.

Development and psychometric analysis of a pediatric cancer survivors Psychosocial Late Effects Scale (PCSLES)

PURPOSE

Although the physiological late effects of childhood cancer survivors are more obvious, appropriate assessment of psychosocial effects is needed. Therefore, it was aimed to develop a scale to evaluate psychosocial late effects in cancer survivors and to test its validity and reliability.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This methodological study was conducted with 100 children and adolescents who survived were collected at the oncology center in the south of Türkiye in 2022. Data were collected with the "Personal Information Form" and "Pediatric Cancer Survivors Psychosocial Late Effects Scale (PCSLES)" IBM SPSS 24.0 and IBM AMOS 24.0 software programs were used for data analysis, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze numeric variables. Exploration and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to determine the scale's factorial structure.

RESULTS

The factorial analysis was used to test the structural validity of the scale. A four-factor structure consisting of 17 items was developed. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for "1" was 0.89, "2" was 0.87, "3" was 0.80, "4" was 0.82 and the total score was 0.92. Fit indices resulting from the study were χ2/SD: 1.497, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA): 0.071, goodnessof-fit index (GFI): 0.85, comparative-of-fit index (CFI): 0.94, and normed fit index (NFI): 0.85.

CONCLUSION

The scale is a valid and reliable scale that can be used to determine psychosocial late effects in pediatric cancer patients.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Utilizing the PCSLES can assist in identifying the psychosocial symptoms of child survivors/adolescents and facilitate the planning of appropriate interventions.

Neuroblastoma survivors' self-reported late effects, quality of life, health-care use, and risk perceptions

BACKGROUND

Survivors of childhood neuroblastoma are at risk of multiple treatment-related health problems (late effects), impacting their quality of life. While late effects and quality of life among Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) childhood cancer survivors have been reported, the outcomes of neuroblastoma survivors specifically have not been reported, limiting critical information to inform treatment and care.

METHODS

Young neuroblastoma survivors or their parents (as proxy for survivors <16 years) were invited to complete a survey and optional telephone interview. Survivors' late effects, risk perceptions, health-care use, and health-related quality of life were surveyed and analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear regression analyses. In-depth interviews explored participants' experiences, knowledge, and perception of late effects and information needs. Thematic content analysis was used to summarize the data.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine neuroblastoma survivors or parents completed questionnaires (median age = 16 years, 39% male), with 13 also completing interviews. Thirty-two participants (82%) reported experiencing at least 1 late effect, most commonly dental problems (56%), vision/hearing problems (47%), and fatigue (44%). Participants reported high overall quality of life (index = 0.9, range = 0.2-1.0); however, more participants experienced anxiety/depression compared to the population norm (50% met criteria versus 25%, χ2 = 13, p < 0.001). Approximately half of participants (53%) believed they were at risk of developing further late effects. Qualitatively, participants reported knowledge gaps in understanding their risk of developing late effects.

CONCLUSION

Many neuroblastoma survivors appear to experience late effects, anxiety/depression and have unmet cancer-related information needs. This study highlights important areas for intervention to reduce the impact of neuroblastoma and its treatment in childhood and young adulthood.

Core and bridge symptoms of demoralization in Chinese female cancer patients: a network analysis

Objective

In this study, we explore the core and bridge symptoms of demoralization in female cancer patients in China, and provide a basis for precise psychological intervention among female cancer patients.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional survey. Participants were recruited from three third-class hospitals in Jiangsu Province from June 2022 to June 2023 using the convenience sampling method. The severity of each symptom of demoralization was investigated in female cancer patients using the Demoralization Scale (DS). Network analysis was performed using the R language to identify core and bridge symptoms in the network and further explore some characteristic edge connections in the network.

Results

The network structure model of demoralization had strong accuracy and stability. In the network, the symptoms with the highest strength centrality were "Discouragement" (C3, strength=2.19), "No self-worth" (A3, strength=1.21), "Don't want to live" (A5, strength=1.20), "Hopeless" (D4, strength=0.81), and "Vulnerability" (B3, strength=0.74), respectively. The bridge strength analysis identified "Hopeless" (D4, bridge strength=0.92), "Discouragement" (C3, bridge strength=0.85), "No self-worth" (A3, bridge strength=0.75), "Poor spirits" (E2, bridge strength=0.71), and "Vulnerability" (B3, bridge strength=0.69) as the bridge symptoms. The strongest edge connections of all dimensions were "No self-worth" and "Worthless" (A3-E6, edge weighting=0.27), "Poor spirits" and "Loss of emotional control" (E2-D1, edge weighting=0.22), "Discouragement" and "Vulnerability" (C3-B3, edge weighting=0.14), and "Hopeless" and "No meaning of survival" (D4-A4, edge weighting=0.12).

Conclusion

"Discouragement (C3)", "No self-worth (A3)", "Hopeless (D4)", and "Vulnerability (B3)" are both core symptoms and bridge symptoms. These symptoms can not only trigger a patient's demoralization but also stimulate more severe symptom clusters through interactions. The early recognition of and intervention regarding these symptoms could be important for the prevention and treatment of demoralization among female cancer patients.

"It just never ends": Childhood cancer survivors' perceived psychosocial impacts of recurrence and second cancer

OBJECTIVES

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk of developing primary recurrences and new second cancers. Experiencing a recurrence and/or second cancer can be highly distressing for survivors and families. We aimed to understand the psychological impacts of experiencing a recurrence or second cancer and how this potentially influences survivors' engagement with survivorship care.

METHODS

We invited childhood cancer survivors or their parents if survivors were ≤16 years of age from 11 tertiary pediatric oncology hospitals across Australia and New Zealand to complete interviews. We conducted a thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo12.

RESULTS

We interviewed 21 participants of whom 16 had experienced a recurrence, 3 had a second cancer, and 2 had both a recurrence and second cancer. Participants reported that a recurrence/second cancer was a stressful sudden disruption to life, accompanied by strong feelings of uncertainty. Participants tended to be less aware of their second cancer risk than recurrence risk. Some participants reported feelings of anxiousness and despair, describing varying responses such as gratitude or avoidance. Participants shared that the fear of cancer recurrence either motivated them to adopt protective health behaviors or to avoid information and disengage from survivorship care.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

Some survivors and their parents have a poor understanding and expressed reluctance to receive information about their risk of second cancer and other treatment-related late effects. Improving the delivery of information about late effects to families may improve their engagement with survivorship care and surveillance, although care must be taken to balance information provision and survivors' anxieties about their future health.

Body Mindsets are Associated With Pain and Threat-Related Risk Factors for Pain in Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Pain is a common consequence of childhood cancer. While most research has examined biomedical predictors of post-cancer pain, biopsychosocial conceptualisations such as the cancer threat interpretation (CTI) model hold promise for guiding comprehensive pain management strategies. Guided by the CTI model, this cross-sectional study evaluated correlates of post-cancer pain in childhood cancer survivors including threat-related risk factors (bodily threat monitoring, fear of cancer recurrence, help-seeking) and mindsets about the body. In the preceding three months, 21.8% of the survivors reported chronic pain (>3 months), and 14.3% experienced pain most days. Greater bodily threat monitoring, more fear of cancer recurrence, and more help-seeking were associated with more pain. There was heterogeneity in the mindsets that survivors of childhood cancer hold about their bodies. Holding the mindset that the 'body is an adversary' was associated with more pain, greater bodily threat monitoring, and more fear of cancer recurrence. Holding the mindset that the 'body is responsive' was associated with less bodily threat monitoring, while the mindset that the 'body is capable' was associated with greater help-seeking. A path model demonstrated a significant combined indirect effect of the 'body is an adversary' mindset on pain through bodily threat monitoring and fear of cancer recurrence. Overall, this study supported that a sub-group of childhood cancer survivors experience persistent and interfering pain and provided cross-sectional support for threat-related correlates for pain aligning with the CTI model. Body mindsets were associated with pain and threat-related correlates and may represent a novel target to support survivors with pain. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents associations of body mindsets, threat-related risk factors, and pain in survivors of childhood cancer (aged 11-25), guided by the Cancer Threat Interpretation model. The study indicates that body mindsets may be novel targets to embed in comprehensive post-cancer pain management approaches to support young survivors with pain.

The bodily threat monitoring scale: Development and preliminary validation in adult and childhood cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

Bodily threat monitoring is a core clinical feature of Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and is targeted in psycho-oncology treatments, yet no comprehensive self-report measure exists. The aim of this study was the theory-informed development and initial validation of the Bodily Threat Monitoring Scale (BTMS).

METHODS

Adult survivors of breast and gynaecological cancers (Study 1: N = 306, age = 37-81 years) and childhood cancer survivors (Study 2: N = 126, age = 10-25 years) completed the BTMS, designed to assess how individuals monitor for and interpret uncertain symptoms as indicating that something is wrong with their body. Participants completed measures to assess construct and criterion validity of the BTMS, and childhood cancer survivors (Study 2) completed the BTMS again 2 weeks later to assess test-retest reliability.

RESULTS

The 19-item BTMS demonstrated excellent internal consistency across adult and childhood cancer samples (α = 0.90-0.96). Factor analyses indicated two subscales capturing 1. Monitoring of bodily sensations and 2. Threatening interpretations of bodily sensations. Two-week stability estimates were acceptable. For construct validity, the BTMS correlated with body vigilance and anxiety sensitivity. The BTMS also demonstrated criterion validity, yielding significant associations with FCR, intolerance of uncertainty, help-seeking behaviours, and quality of life. The BTMS was associated with FCR while controlling for body vigilance and anxiety sensitivity, indicating a unique contribution of this theory-informed measure.

CONCLUSIONS

The BTMS shows evidence of sound psychometric properties and could be used to elucidate the role of bodily threat monitoring in the maintenance and management of FCR.

Cancer Pain Experience Through the Lens of Patients and Caregivers: Mixed Methods Social Media Study

BACKGROUND

Cancer pain represents a challenge for cancer patients and their family members. Despite progression in pain management, pain is still underreported and undertreated, and there is limited information on the related needs that patients and caregivers may have. Online platforms represent a fundamental tool for research to reveal the unmet needs of these users and their emotions outside the medical setting.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to (1) reveal the unmet needs of both patients and caregivers and (2) detect the emotional activation associated with cancer pain by analyzing the textual patterns of both users.

METHODS

A descriptive and quantitative analysis of qualitative data was performed in RStudio v.2022.02.3 (RStudio Team). We analyzed 679 posts (161 from caregivers and 518 from patients) published over 10 years on the "cancer" subreddit of Reddit to identify unmet needs and emotions related to cancer pain. Hierarchical clustering, and emotion and sentiment analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

The language used for describing experiences related to cancer pain and expressed needs differed between patients and caregivers. For patients (agglomerative coefficient=0.72), the large cluster labeled unmet needs included the following clusters: (1A) reported experiences, with the subclusters (a) relationship with doctors/spouse and (b) reflections on physical features; and (1B) changes observed over time, with the subclusters (a) regret and (b) progress. For caregivers (agglomerative coefficient=0.80), the main clusters were as follows: (1A) social support and (1B) reported experiences, with the subclusters (a) psychosocial challenges and (b) grief. Moreover, comparison between the 2 groups (entanglement coefficient=0.28) showed that they shared a common cluster labeled uncertainty. Regarding emotion and sentiment analysis, patients expressed a significantly higher negative sentiment than caregivers (z=-2.14; P<.001). On the contrary, caregivers expressed a higher positive sentiment compared with patients (z=-2.26; P<.001), with trust (z=-4.12; P<.001) and joy (z=-2.03; P<.001) being the most prevalent positive emotions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study emphasized different perceptions of cancer pain in patients and caregivers. We revealed different needs and emotional activations in the 2 groups. Moreover, our study findings highlight the importance of considering caregivers in medical care. Overall, this study increases knowledge about the unmet needs and emotions of patients and caregivers, which may have important clinical implications in pain management.

Cancer-Related Fatigue and Daily Living Activities in Pediatric Cancer Survivors

Cancer-related long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, fatigue, weight-related problems, and emotional disturbances are found to be increased in pediatric cancer survivors (PCSs). The relationship between daily living activities (DLAs) and such complications is still being investigated. Our aim in this study was to investigate the relationship between the cancer-related fatigue and DLA in PCS. Cancer-related fatigue was assessed by "PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MFS)" and "visual analog scale (VAS)." The DLA was evaluated by WeeFIM. There were 77 PCS (44 boys) with a mean age of 10.76 years. The mean value of fatigue scales were VAS 2.48, and MFS total score 71.14. WeeFIM total result was 118.64. While there was a statistically significant relationship between VAS fatigue score and WeeFIM total score ( r=- 0.387; P =0.007), there was no such correlation between WeeFIM total score with MFS total score ( r =0.250; P =0.080). It is established that there is a relationship between level of fatigue and DLA. Risk factors like tumor type or treatment modalities for fatigue should be investigated in larger samples of specific survivor groups. Fatigue and its association with DLA should be screened clinically as a routine surveillance in PCS and treatment options be planned.

The information needs of relatives of childhood cancer patients and survivors: A systematic review of qualitative evidence

OBJECTIVES

To synthesize qualitative research on the information needs of relatives of childhood cancer patients and survivors.

METHODS

Systematic searches of PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus identified relevant literature. Extracted data were combined using thematic synthesis. Methodological quality was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tool for qualitative research.

RESULTS

The review included 27 publications, with most research focusing on parents or primary caregivers. Five areas of information needs were identified: treatment, medication, and care; general information about cancer; coping and support; follow-up, late effects, and rehabilitation; and parenting and everyday life. Appropriateness of information depended on health care professionals' aptitude, message characteristics, communication setting, and relatives' personal factors. Preferences for form, sources, and timing for information provision varied.

CONCLUSION

The review identified information needs, communication barriers, and preferences among caregivers and siblings of childhood cancer patients and survivors, highlighting areas requiring further research and clinical consideration in addressing the identified challenges.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Caregivers and siblings have unique but similar information needs regarding childhood cancer. To ensure that these needs are met, health care professionals could use eHealth and mHealth technologies, assess each family member's knowledge, and create a safe and supportive environment for questions and feedback.

Clinician Perspectives on Managing Chronic Pain After Curative-Intent Cancer Treatment

PURPOSE

Among cancer survivors who have completed curative-intent treatment, the high prevalence and adverse consequences of chronic pain are well documented. Yet, research on clinicians' experiences with and perspectives on managing chronic pain among cancer survivors is critically lacking.

METHODS

We conducted semistructured interviews with 17 clinicians (six oncology, three palliative care, and eight primary care) affiliated with an academic medical center. Interview questions addressed clinicians' experiences with and perspectives on managing chronic pain (with or without opioid therapy) during the transition from active treatment to survivorship. A multidisciplinary team conducted content analysis of interview transcripts to identify and refine themes related to current practices and challenges in managing chronic pain in this context.

RESULTS

Overall, clinicians perceived chronic pain to be relatively uncommon among cancer survivors. Identified challenges included a lack of clarity about which clinician (or clinicians) are best positioned to manage chronic pain among cancer survivors, and (relatedly) complexities introduced by long-term opioid management, with many clinicians describing this practice as outside their skill set. Additionally, although most clinicians recognized chronic pain as a biopsychosocial phenomenon, they described challenges with effectively managing psychosocial stressors, including difficulty accessing mental or behavioral health services for cancer survivors.

CONCLUSION

Discovered challenges highlight unmet needs related to cancer survivor-clinician communication about chronic pain and the absence of a chronic pain management home for cancer survivors, including those requiring long-term opioid therapy. Research evaluating routine pain monitoring and accessible, tailored models of multimodal pain care in survivorship may help to address these challenges.

Cancer-related fatigue: scoping review to synthesize a definition for childhood cancer survivors

CONTEXT

There is no universal definition of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) specific to childhood cancer survivors, despite this population facing unique long-term side effects from their cancer. We aimed to synthesize and combine existing definitions of CRF specific to this context to inform on the necessity of a panel of experts to formulate a new definition of CRF for childhood cancer survivors.

METHODS

The literature search was performed in various databases. Titles, abstracts, and keywords were screened by two researchers to confirm eligibility. The data extraction process was performed by two researchers. Our search was conducted in various databases.

RESULTS

Thirty articles were included in the qualitative analysis. Two coders reached consensus on 14 codes. The thematization process produced 4 themes: frequency, context, attributes, and consequences of CRF. These themes were used to synthesize a definition of CRF, as follows: "In childhood cancer survivors, cancer-related fatigue is a common late effect of cancer and cancer treatments. It is characterized by a subjective, persistent, and multidimensional experience that differs from normal fatigue in the physical, emotional, and/or cognitive spheres. Cancer-related fatigue may have a variety of negative consequences including a reduced quality of life and level of functioning, a lack of vigor, work difficulties, relationship issues, and emotional distress."

CONCLUSION

A definition of CRF applicable to childhood cancer survivors is timely to organize research efforts and design appropriate interventions. The proposed definition is a first step towards the formulation of a new definition of CRF specific to childhood cancer survivors by experts.

Associations between cancer-related distress and fatigue in childhood cancer survivors: A longitudinal study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A chronic feeling of fatigue occurs in up to 85% of childhood cancer survivors (CCS). This phenomenon has a detrimental effect on quality of life, reintegration in daily life activities and psychosocial functioning of the patient. Therefore, it is important to elucidate potential individual risk and protective factors.

METHODS

CCS who were treated in the University Hospital of Leuven, completed two annual questionnaires on cancer-related distress (fear of cancer recurrence and post-traumatic stress, resilience and fatigue). Associations between distress and fatigue levels were examined by performing cross-lagged panel analyses. Resilience was included as a potential moderator. These models included all within-time associations, stability paths, and cross-lagged paths. Gender and time since diagnosis were included as covariates.

RESULTS

In total, 110 CCS participated in this study, aged 14-25 years (average time since diagnosis 12.2 years; 41.8% boys; diagnosed with leukemia/lymphoma [49%], solid tumor [15%], brain tumor [16%] or other [20%]). Fear of cancer recurrence and post-traumatic stress at baseline positively predicted fatigue 1 year later. Cross-lagged panel analyses showed that resilience did not buffer the effect of fear of cancer recurrence on fatigue, in contrary to our expectations. Stability coefficients were high for all study variables.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates associations between cancer-related distress (fear of cancer recurrence and post-traumatic stress), resilience and cancer-related fatigue over time in CCS. Interventions to improve fatigue levels could be focusing on both tackling cancer-related distress, while improving resilience levels as well.

Fear of cancer recurrence as a pathway from fatigue to psychological distress in mothers who are breast cancer survivors

Fatigue is prevalent and pervasive among breast cancer survivors. Mothers are particularly susceptible to fatigue due to the ongoing demands of their caring role. While fatigue has been associated with psychological distress in prior research, the pathway by which fatigue translates into psychological distress is unclear. Given the theoretical and empirical links between fatigue, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and psychological distress, the role of FCR in mediating the relationship between fatigue and psychological distress in mothers who are breast cancer survivors was investigated. Ninety-two mothers who were breast cancer survivors completed the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, PROMIS-Cancer Fatigue Short Form and Concerns About Cancer Recurrence scale in an online survey. Mediation analysis via PROCESS was used to examine whether fatigue predicted depression, anxiety or stress through FCR. Fear of cancer recurrence mediated the relationships between fatigue and anxiety and fatigue and stress, while fatigue directly predicted depression. This study highlights FCR as a potential pathway to anxiety and stress in response to ongoing fatigue, and as a mechanism of action to reduce psychological distress among mothers who are breast cancer survivors. Future research examining this pathway from fatigue to psychological distress should also explore the nature of mothers' fears about their cancer recurring.

Update on Prevalence of Pain in Patients with Cancer 2022: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Experiencing pain and insufficient relief can be devastating and negatively affect a patient's quality of life. Developments in oncology such as new treatments and adjusted pain management guidelines may have influenced the prevalence of cancer pain and severity in patients. This review aims to provide an overview of the prevalence and severity of pain in cancer patients in the 2014-2021 literature period. A systematic literature search was performed using the databases PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Titles and abstracts were screened, and full texts were evaluated and assessed on methodological quality. A meta-analysis was performed on the pooled prevalence and severity rates. A meta-regression analysis was used to explore differences between treatment groups. We identified 10,637 studies, of which 444 studies were included. The overall prevalence of pain was 44.5%. Moderate to severe pain was experienced by 30.6% of the patients, a lower proportion compared to previous research. Pain experienced by cancer survivors was significantly lower compared to most treatment groups. Our results imply that both the prevalence of pain and pain severity declined in the past decade. Increased attention to the assessment and management of pain might have fostered the decline in the prevalence and severity of pain.

Psychometric evaluation of the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI) and development of a short version in patients with follicular lymphoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI-C) in follicular lymphoma (FL) survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted online between July and September 2020. The following psychometric properties of the FCRI-C were evaluated: construct, convergent, and discriminant validity, and reliability. Item variance was assessed using differential item functioning (DIF). A short version of the FCRI-C was developed using a two-parameter item response theory (IRT) model. The patterns of response scale, item fit, and item information were assessed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the clinical cut-off point for the FCRI-C.

RESULTS

A total of 326 FL survivors completed the questionnaire. The confirmatory factor analysis supported the bi-factor structure of the FCRI-C. The IRT analysis confirmed a 10-item short version of the FCRI-C. Satisfactory convergent and discriminant validity were underpinned by a priori hypotheses. Cronbach's alpha of 0.95 and intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.82 indicated good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The ROC curve determined a cut-off point of 83 and 20 for the full and short versions, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The FCRI-C used to measure and screen the levels of FCR in Chinese FL survivors was found to be valid and reliable.Implications for RehabilitationThe Chinese Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI-C) is a reliable and valid measure to evaluate the fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) in follicular lymphoma survivors.The short version of the FCRI-C provides a rapid screening tool for the clinical detection of FCR in patients.The cut-off point of the FCRI-C could differentiate patients between "high" and "low" levels of FCR in clinical practice.

Cancer-related fatigue in childhood cancer survivors: A systematic scoping review on contributors of fatigue and how they are targeted by non-pharmacological interventions

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify contributors to cancer-related fatigue (CRF), explore non-pharmacological interventions addressing CRF, and highlight which contributors were targeted by these interventions in childhood cancer survivors.

METHODS

We performed a search in various databases and used the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Findings were synthesized in various different tables and figures in accordance with our objectives.

RESULTS

We included 49 articles in this systematic scoping review. We identified 59 significant contributors. Depression and physical activity level were some of the most studied significant contributors. Ten interventional studies were identified (e.g., yoga, physical activity intervention) that addressed 6 contributors (e.g., physical activity level).

DISCUSSION

This review is the first to describe and relate contributors and non-pharmacological interventions targeting CRF in childhood cancer survivors. Important clinical implications could be derived from the variety of factors explaining CRF and how it is currently addressed.

Trajectories of Pain Severity and Interference Among Adolescent and Young Adults With Cancer: A Microlongitudinal Study

OBJECTIVE

Cancer-related pain is a pervasive concern among adolescent and young adults (AYA) with cancer and is an emerging long-term health concern. Few studies have examined the complex contributions to pain among AYA. We aimed to fill a gap by (1) identifying subgroups of AYA with distinct patterns of pain severity and interference over time and (2) explore possible predictors of these patterns.

METHODS

Daily text messages over a 9-week period were used to model group-based trajectory analyses of pain severity and interference by identifying subgroups of AYA who experience common patterns of changes in pain. Demographic, medical, physical symptom burden, and psychological distress were examined as possible predictors of these patterns.

RESULTS

AYA were on average 16.93 years old and 2.5 years since diagnosis. Subgroups of AYA were identified for pain severity and interference over time: high variability (37.7%; 37.7%, respectively), consistent high pain (35.8%; 18.9%, respectively), and consistent low pain (26.4%; 43.4%, respectively). AYA with greater psychological distress were more likely to belong to the high consistent pain severity and interference groups. AYA with greater physical symptoms were more likely to belong to the high consistent pain interference group. No significant associations between demographic/medical characteristics and trajectory subgroups were found.

CONCLUSIONS

AYA with elevated physical and psychological symptoms were more likely to experience high consistent pain severity and pain interreference over time. Interventions aimed at reducing pain through focusing on teaching AYA how to alleviate physical symptoms and teaching coping skills to manage psychological distress may be beneficial.

Fear of Recurrence in Young Adult Cancer Patients—A Network Analysis

Simple Summary

Fear of cancer recurrence is a main concern for the majority of cancer patients during their disease. Young adults with cancer may experience fear of recurrence throughout their lives, given their relatively long potential survival time. More research is needed to identify evidence-based interventions that can adequately address this fear. Investigating the underlying mechanisms that trigger and sustain fear of cancer recurrence is an important step toward this goal. Network analysis is a useful tool to study symptoms and their structural relationships. The aim of this study is to apply the network analysis approach in a sample of young cancer patients to comprehend their specific symptomatology and define the optimal structure of a questionnaire to assess fear of recurrence in this patient group. Future studies may seek to replicate our findings among different age group samples to identify network structures and potential targets for clinical intervention.

Abstract

Due to the high survival rates of many young cancer patients and a high risk of second tumors, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) can cause serious impairment for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients. The aim of this study is to analyze the structure of the Fear of Disease Progression Questionnaire (FoP-Q-12) to better understand the construct of FCR. We performed a cross-sectional survey on a sample of AYA patients aged 15–39 years with different tumor entities. FCR was measured using the FoP-Q-12, and a network analysis was conducted to examine the relationship of FCR symptoms. The importance of individual items in the network was determined using centrality analyses. A total of 247 AYA patients (81.8% female, median age 31.0 years) participated in the study. The mean FCR score in the sample was 35.9 (SD = 9.9). The majority of patients reported having high FCR (59.5%), according to the established cut-off. The two questionnaire items with the strongest association related to fears about work, and the most central symptom was the fear of serious medical interventions. The centrality of emotional issues in the sample indicates that these symptoms should be prioritized in the development of interventions targeting FCR. Further research should address this topic with larger samples of patients in other age groups and in longitudinal studies.

Adaptación cultural mexicana del programa de intervención CASCAdE para padres de supervivientes de cáncer infantil

Objetivo: Describir el proceso de adaptación cultural del programa CASCAdE en línea para padres de supervivientes de cáncer infantil mexicanos. Método: Se utilizó el Modelo Ecológico de Validación (MEV), en dos fases: la primera consistió en la traducción (inglés-español) y adaptación cultural de los contenidos del programa; la segunda fue la evaluación del contenido e integridad del tratamiento. Resultados: Se realizaron cambios en la redacción del texto, se modificó el uso de la segunda persona del singular por la tercera persona del singular “usted”. Del MEV se eligieron para adaptación de materiales: Lenguaje, Personas, Metáforas o dichos, Narrativa y Conceptos. Entre los cambios más relevantes se encuentran el uso de la tercera persona del singular (aceptabilidad) y la adaptación de metáforas que fueran entendibles en este contexto (relevancia). Para la intervención se adaptaron: Métodos, contexto y objetivos, dando como resultado la aplicación individual, cambios en el diseño gráfico e inclusión de iconografías llamativas y amigables para los padres (aceptabilidad). En la evaluación del contenido por jueces expertos se obtuvieron porcentajes del 50% de acuerdo en redacción de las sesiones de introducción del manual para el facilitador y 75% en redacción de la sesión cuatro del manual para padres. Conclusión: Este estudio muestra el proceso de adaptación cultural desde el MEV a fin de contar con los materiales necesarios para que la aplicación del programa CASCAdE en un contexto mexicano.

A systematic review and pooled prevalence of symptoms among childhood and adolescent and young adult cancer survivors

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To systematically review the existing literature reporting symptoms in childhood and adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and to meta-analyse the pooled prevalence of symptoms.

BACKGROUND

Cancer survivors experience various symptoms caused by cancer treatments and their late effects. These symptoms are associated with adverse health outcomes. However, estimates of symptom prevalence vary largely, and no comprehensive review of symptoms has been conducted for childhood and adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.

DESIGN

A systematic review.

METHODS

This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO registry and was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus and CINAHL were searched up to July 2021. Three investigators assessed the eligibility of studies, extracted data and performed quality assessment. The pooled prevalence of symptoms was calculated using a random-effect model. Subgroup analysis was conducted to identify heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Sixty-one studies were used to synthesise symptom prevalence, involving 114,184 participants. There were 24 physical symptoms and 10 psychological symptoms reported in two or more studies. The most studied physical symptoms were fatigue and sleep disturbance, and the most studied psychological symptoms were anxiety and depression. Among physical symptoms, drowsiness had the highest prevalence, followed by dry mouth and fatigue. Among psychological symptoms, worry and nervousness had the highest prevalence, followed by difficulty concentrating.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical and psychological symptoms are common in the target population. This review provides an up-to-date overview of symptom prevalence, identifying areas for future research.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Education about possible symptoms related to cancer and its treatment should be given while in treatment. Symptoms should also be monitored throughout the survivorship period. Nurses have a critical role in identifying and making referrals for psychological symptoms as well as promoting preventative strategies that enhance well-being.

Psychosocial risk, symptom burden, and concerns in families affected by childhood cancer

PURPOSE

The revised Psychosocial Assessment Tool (PATrev) is a common family-level risk-based screening tool for pediatric oncology that has gained support for its ability to predict, at diagnosis, the degree of psychosocial support a family may require throughout the treatment trajectory. However, ongoing screening for symptoms and concerns (e.g., feeling alone, understanding treatment) remains underutilized. Resource limitations necessitate triaging and intervention based on need and risk. Given the widespread use of the PATrev, we sought to explore the association between family psychosocial risk, symptom burden (as measured by the revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS-r)), and concerns (as measured by the Canadian Problem Checklist (CPC)).

METHODS

Families (n = 87) with children ≤ 18 years of age (M = 11.72, male: 62.1%) on or off treatment for cancer were recruited from the Alberta Children's Hospital. One parent from each family completed the PATrev and the CPC. Participants 8-18 years of age completed the ESAS-r.

RESULTS

Risk category (universal/low risk = 67.8%, targeted/intermediate risk = 26.4%, clinical/high risk = 5.7%) predicted symptom burden (F_{[2, 63.07]} = 4.57, p = .014) and concerns (F_{[2, 82.06]} = 16.79, p < .001), such that universal risk was associated with significantly lower symptom burden and fewer concerns.

CONCLUSION

Family psychosocial risk is associated with cross-sectionally identified concerns and symptom burden, suggesting that resources might be prioritized for families with the greatest predicted need. Future research should evaluate the predictive validity of the PATrev to identify longitudinal concerns and symptom burden throughout the cancer trajectory.

Reproductive concerns and fear of cancer recurrence: a qualitative study of women's experiences of the perinatal period after cancer

Background

Young female cancer survivors are at a disproportionate risk of suffering significant psychological distress following treatment, particularly fears of cancer recurrence (FCR). While previous research has established the robust relationship between FCR and family matters (e.g., family planning and motherhood), there is a paucity of information about how a history of cancer affects women’s psychological functioning throughout the perinatal period. The present investigation sought to better understand women’s experiences of pregnancy and the postpartum period following cancer treatment through a qualitative analysis.

Methods

Ten women participated in a semi-structured, one-on-one interview either over telephone or video conferencing (Zoom). Women were recruited from Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, as well as through online cancer support platforms, and social media sites. Participants all had a past cancer diagnosis; no active disease; were 45-years of age or younger; currently in the perinatal period; and spoke English fluently. The study employed a grounded theory analysis by which verbatim interview data were analysed using a constant comparison method until data saturation was reached.

Results

The qualitative analysis yielded I’m So Happy, But Also Terrified, as the core category, indicative of the duality of emotional experience that characterized the perinatal period for these women. Additionally, four higher-order categories emerged revealing how women go through a process of grief related to potential fertility loss; conditional joy during and after pregnancy due to the lingering weight of cancer; frustration with a lack of resources regarding perinatal health after cancer; and hope as they enter into motherhood.

Conclusion

These results suggest that women in the perinatal period with a history of cancer may be at an increased risk for psychological distress and require additional fertility and reproductive resources both during and after cancer treatment. This research is an important step in further understanding women’s experiences of pregnancy after cancer and may help to inform future research and healthcare practices, in addition to improving perinatal care after cancer.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-04208-3.

Persistent Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Correlates with Health Self-Efficacy in Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Purpose: The numbers of adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of childhood cancer are exponentially growing. To ensure suitable services are available to meet the needs of this growing population, understanding the experience of late effects, quality of life, and potentially modifiable factors, such as self-efficacy, is required. Methods: AYA survivors of childhood cancer recruited through an After Cancer Therapy Service at a Children's Hospital rated their symptoms experience, quality of life, and self-efficacy using the Patient Reported Outcome Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS^®), respectively. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample. Quality-of-life scores were compared with population norms. Regression analyses were used to explore the relationships between symptom experience, quality of life, and self-efficacy. Results: Thirty participants (mean age 22 ± 4.4 years) reported an average of nine symptoms as persistently experienced at moderate or higher rated intensity among participants (standard deviation ±8.7; range: 0-32; interquartile range: 2-16); over half (n = 17, 56.7%) had finished treatment 10 or more years ago. Participants scored lower on the FACT-G Physical Well-being and Emotional Well-being, and higher on Social Well-being subscales than the general population. Around two-thirds of participants were confident in their ability to self-manage their health based on their health self-efficacy score. Bivariate linear regression identified a statistically significant increase in the overall quality of life with increased self-efficacy, adjusted for age and sex (0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30-0.90, p < 0.01). Higher symptom burden was associated with a lower overall quality of life after adjusting for age and sex (-0.95, 95% CI: -1.35 to -0.54, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Young cancer survivors experience a substantial number of persistent symptoms related to their cancer treatment that may negatively impact aspects of their quality of life. Health self-efficacy is a potential target for future interventions.

Worry about somatic symptoms as a sign of cancer recurrence: prevalence and associations with fear of recurrence and quality of life in survivors of childhood cancer

OBJECTIVE

Somatic symptoms (e.g., pain, fatigue) are common after childhood cancer and are associated with greater fear of cancer recurrence and poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Qualitative studies indicate that survivors of childhood cancer (SCCs) worry about somatic symptoms as indicating cancer recurrence, which could in part explain associations between symptoms and poorer psychosocial outcomes. However, the prevalence, characteristics, and impact of symptom worry has not been quantitatively studied.

METHODS

SCCs (N = 111; 52% female; Mage at study = 17.67 years, range = 8-25 years; Mage at diagnosis = 6.70 years) across a variety of diagnoses were recruited from a pediatric cancer center in Canada and completed self-report measures of symptom worry, symptom frequency, general anxiety, fear of cancer recurrence, and HRQoL.

RESULTS

A majority (62%) of SCCs worried about at least one symptom as a sign of recurrence. Pain was the most worrisome symptom, but SCCs also reported worrying about symptoms that are rarely associated with cancer recurrence such as hunger, dizziness, and feeling cold. Symptom worry was more strongly associated with fear of cancer recurrence than the mere frequency of those symptoms, and this relationship held while controlling for treatment factors and general anxiety. Symptom worry and frequency each explained unique variance in HRQoL.

CONCLUSIONS

Worry about somatic symptoms as a sign of cancer recurrence is common and may be impactful after childhood cancer. Excessive worry about somatic symptoms could be an important target to reduce fear of recurrence and increase HRQoL in SCCs.

Spotlight on the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI)

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a pervasive concern for people living with cancer. The rapidly expanding FCR literature has been weakened somewhat by use of miscellaneous FCR measures of varying quality. The Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI) has been widely used in observational and intervention studies and the FCRI severity subscale, also known as the FCRI-Short Form (FCRI-SF), is often used to identify potential cases of clinically significant FCR. Given the FCRI's increasing use in research and clinical practice, we aimed to provide an overview, critique, and suggested improvements of the FCRI. Studies citing the original FCRI validation paper were identified and synthesised using narrative and meta-analytic methods. The 42-item FCRI has demonstrated a reasonably robust 7-factor structure across evaluations in multiple languages, although certain subscales (eg, Coping) demonstrate sub-optimal reliability. Confirmation of the cross-cultural equivalence of several FCRI translations is needed. Meta-analysis of FCRI-SF scores revealed a combined weighted mean score of 15.7/36, a little above the lowest proposed cut-off score (≥13) for clinical FCR. Depending on the FCRI-SF cut-off used, between 30.0% and 53.9% of the cancer population (ie, patients and survivors) appear to experience sub-clinical or clinical FCR. Higher FCRI scores were associated with younger age and female gender, pain/physical symptoms and psychological morbidity, consistent with the FCR literature generally. Issues regarding the application and interpretation of the FCRI remain. Whether the FCRI is well suited to assessing fear of progression as well as recurrence is unclear, the meaningfulness of the FCRI total score is debatable, and the use of the FCRI-SF to screen for clinical FCR is problematic, as items do not reflect established characteristics of clinical FCR. Refinement of the FCRI is needed for it to remain a key FCR assessment tool in future research and clinical practice.

Childhood Cancer Survivorship: Daily Challenges

Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk of experiencing fatigue, pain, lower levels of physical activity, increased engagement in risky health behavior, and poor social adjustment, after finishing treatment. Risks are more pronounced for survivors of specific diagnoses or receiving specific treatment protocols. Interventions to address these outcomes are in their infancy. Future research should focus on exploring the antecedents and consequences of these outcomes. In the meantime, researchers and cancer centers should attempt to provide high-quality and accessible health information to survivors through various media outlets to encourage healthy behaviors.

Fear of cancer recurrence in childhood cancer survivors: A developmental perspective from infancy to young adulthood

AIMS

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is among the most prevalent and distressing concerns reported by cancer survivors. While younger age is the most consistent predictor of elevated FCR, research to date has focused almost exclusively on adult cancer survivors. This is despite the fact that children with cancer are more likely to survive compared to adults, and will become regular, lifelong users of the medical system to mitigate the effects of toxic treatment. The early experience of cancer yields unique challenges and circumstances that may impact children's capacity for and experience of FCR across the developmental trajectory. The aim of this paper is to present a developmental perspective of FCR from infancy to young adulthood.

METHODS

Drawing on the developmental science literature and recent theoretical advancements in FCR, we outline cognitive and social factors that may influence children's capacity for and experience of FCR across the developmental trajectory.

RESULTS

First, distinct developmental groups that fall under the classification of "childhood cancer survivor," and that all require attention, are summarized. Using the structure of these groupings, we centrally provide a developmental perspective of FCR that offers a useful starting point for research in pediatric populations. Key research gaps, including the need for validated assessment tools to measure FCR in child and adolescent survivors, are highlighted.

CONCLUSIONS

Consideration of the unique context of childhood is needed to guide the identification of childhood cancer survivors at risk for FCR as well as the development of effective FCR interventions for this population.

Fear of cancer recurrence among young adult cancer survivors-exploring long-term contributing factors in a large, population-based cohort

PURPOSE

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) may be debilitating, yet knowledge of FCR among the growing population of long-term young adult cancer survivors (YACS) is scarce. We explored risk of FCR and associated factors in a nation-wide, population-based cohort of YACS.

METHODS

All 5-year survivors diagnosed at the ages of 19-39 years with breast cancer (BC), malignant melanoma (MM), colorectal cancer (CRC), leukemia (LEU), or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) between 1985 and 2009 in Norway were identified by the Cancer Registry of Norway and completed the cross-sectional comprehensive NOR-CAYACS health survey. Univariate and multivariate linear regression modeling was performed.

RESULTS

In total, 936 survivors were included, with an average of 16 years since diagnoses. BC was the most prevalent cancer form (38.4%), followed by MM (24.7%), NHL (15.6%), CRC (11.8%), and LEU (9.6%). Survivors worried most about getting another cancer (74%), and (20%) reported quite a bit or a lot of FCR. BC and MM survivors had the highest FCR scores. Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) had the strongest association with FCR (Std B 0.21, p < 0.01), above demographic and clinical variables.

CONCLUSIONS

FCR is prevalent even among long-term YACS, including survivors of MM with favorable prognoses.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Attention to ongoing risks of PTSS and FCR in this growing survivor population is warranted to optimize future survivorship care.

A portable survivorship care plan: a tool that helps educate and improve knowledge in childhood cancer survivors

PURPOSE

There is a growing population of survivors of childhood cancer at risk for late effects that can affect their overall quality of life. There is evidence that they have inadequate knowledge about their diagnosis, treatment, and subsequent late effects. A randomized study was conducted to determine if a portable credit card-sized plastic card, the "Survivor Healthcare Passport," improved the survivor's knowledge of diagnosis, treatment, risks, and follow-up care. The study included 126 patients 2 years post-end of cancer treatment and took place at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Survivorship Clinic.

METHODS

Patients attending the UCSF Survivorship clinic were randomized to receive or not receive a passport at their first survivorship clinic visit. Each groups' knowledge of diagnosis, treatment history, and follow-up needs was assessed at three time points with a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Patients who received the passport distributed immediately after their visit demonstrated improved and sustained knowledge compared with survivors who did not receive the passport until more than 4 months later.

CONCLUSION

Enhancing a survivor's knowledge is an important endeavor and a continual challenge for practitioners in survivorship clinics. This portable educational tool helps improve patient knowledge of their cancer, therapy, and follow-up needs. By providing a tangible card that is quick and easy to access, survivors have access to their treatment late effects and follow-up needs that can also be shared with other healthcare providers.

Fear of cancer recurrence among survivors of childhood cancer

OBJECTIVES

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) has not been widely explored in survivors of childhood cancer. Yet, childhood survivors are at risk of experiencing late effects and may be especially vulnerable. The aims of the current study were to conduct a retrospective chart review to determine the prevalence and persistence of FCR among survivors of childhood cancer and to examine factors that may be related to FCR.

METHODS

Survivors of childhood cancer (n = 228, mean attained age = 14.5 years [range = 4.7-21 years]; mean diagnosis age = 4.4 years [range = 0-16.5 years]; mean time off treatment = 8.7 years [range = 2.8-19.3 years]) seen in a Long-Term Survivor Clinic (LTSC) completed questionnaires at each clinic visit detailing their current health. FCR was measured with a single item. Data from questionnaires from 2011 to 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Descriptive statistics and a random effects model were used to address study aims.

RESULTS

FCR was reported in 43% (n = 98) of survivors at least once across all clinic visits. Among survivors reporting FCR at least once, 66% were diagnosed with cancer under the age of 5, and 64% were 13 years or older at their most recent follow-up. Twenty-one percent of survivors (n = 48/224) reported FCR during at least 50% of their visits. Survivors with a higher number of depressive symptoms were more likely to report FCR (OR = 1.66, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

FCR is prevalent among survivors of childhood cancer and is related to other health concerns. Research is needed to understand who is at risk and how to.

Pain in long-term survivors of childhood cancer: A systematic review of the current state of knowledge and a call to action from the Children's Oncology Group

Survivors of childhood cancer may be at risk of experiencing pain, and a systematic review would advance our understanding of pain in this population. The objective of this study was to describe: 1) the prevalence of pain in survivors of childhood cancer, 2) methods of pain measurement, 3) associations between pain and biopsychosocial factors, and 4) recommendations for future research. Data sources for the study were articles published from January 1990 to August 2019 identified in the PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and Web of Science data bases. Eligible studies included: 1) original research, 2) quantitative assessments of pain, 3) articles published in English, 4) cancers diagnosed between birth and age 21 years, 5) survivors at 5 years from diagnosis and/or at 2 years after therapy completion, and 6) a sample size >20. Seventy-three articles were included in the final review. Risk of bias was considered using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The quality of evidence was evaluated according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Common measures of pain were items created by the authors for the purpose of the study (45.2%) or health-related quality-of-life/health status questionnaires (42.5%). Pain was present in from 4.3% to 75% of survivors across studies. Three studies investigated chronic pain according the definition in the International Classification of Diseases. The findings indicated that survivors of childhood cancer are at higher risk of experiencing pain compared with controls. Fatigue was consistently associated with pain, females reported more pain than males, and other factors related to pain will require stronger evidence. Theoretically grounded, multidimensional measurements of pain are absent from the literature.