1
|
Naittee George P, Mp G. Beyond the battle: A cross-sectional study on cancer-related fatigue and predictors of quality of life in female adolescent and young adult survivors. Chronic Illn 2024:17423953241282664. [PMID: 39246253 DOI: 10.1177/17423953241282664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study delves into the intricacies of cancer-related fatigue (CRF), the quality of life (QoL), and other demographic variables of female adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYACS) in the landscape of Kerala, India. METHODS The cross-sectional study included 288 female AYACS who were selected through purposive sampling and completed self-reported questionnaires on CRF, QoL, and demographic and clinical data. Statistical analyses were applied, including correlation, one-way ANOVA, and regression. RESULTS and discussion: The temporal dimension is particularly interesting, as individuals three to five years post-treatment report heightened CRF and QoL scores. Furthermore, the research unveils the pivotal role played by predictors such as marital status, educational attainment, and employment status in shaping QoL. Marital status and education emerge as positive predictors of well-being. The study unveils compelling insights into AYA cancer survivorship, revealing a profound impact of CRF on the quality of life dimensions. The role of spirituality, sometimes affecting social connectedness, adds intrigue. CONCLUSION The findings provide insights into the complex world of female AYACS, compelling researchers to ponder the significance of addressing CRF and tailoring rehabilitation systems during the critical post-treatment phase, with recognition of gender-specific challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prema Naittee George
- Department of Liberal Arts, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Ganesh Mp
- Department of Liberal Arts, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schilstra CE, Sansom-Daly UM, Ellis SJ, Trahair TN, Anazodo AC, Amiruddin A, Lindsay T, Maguire F, Wakefield CE, Lah S, Bland E, Lenthen K, Rifkin A, Awan A, Kittos T, Hanbury N, Tsalidis S, Patterson P, McDonald F, Fardell JE. Guidelines for Caring for the Social Well-Being of Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer in Australia. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:8-29. [PMID: 37367208 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 1000 Australian adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are diagnosed with cancer annually. Many report unmet social well-being needs, which impact their mental health. Australian AYA cancer care providers lack guidance to address these needs well. We aimed to develop guidelines for caring for the social well-being of AYAs with cancer in Australia. Following the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council guidance, we formed a multidisciplinary working group (n = 4 psychosocial researchers, n = 4 psychologists, n = 4 AYA cancer survivors, n = 2 oncologists, n = 2 nurses, and n = 2 social workers), defined the scope of the guidelines, gathered evidence via a systematic review, graded the evidence, and surveyed AYA cancer care providers about the feasibility and acceptability of the guidelines. The guidelines recommend which AYAs should have their social well-being assessed, who should lead that assessment, when assessment should occur with which tools/measures, and how clinicians can address AYAs' social well-being concerns. A key clinician, who is knowledgeable about AYAs' developmental needs, should lead the assessment of social well-being during and after cancer treatment. The AYA Psycho-Oncology Screening Tool is recommended to screen for social well-being needs. The HEADSSS Assessment (Home, Education/Employment, Eating/Exercise, Activities/Peer Relationships, Drug use, Sexuality, Suicidality/Depression, Safety/Spirituality Assessment) can be used for in-depth assessment of social well-being, while the Social Phobia Inventory can be used to assess social anxiety. AYA cancer care providers rated the guidelines as highly acceptable, but discussed many feasibility barriers. These guidelines provide an optimal care pathway for the social well-being of AYAs with cancer. Future research addressing implementation is critical to meet AYAs' social well-being needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa E Schilstra
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah J Ellis
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Toby N Trahair
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Antoinette C Anazodo
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Azhani Amiruddin
- Western Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Westmead Hospital, Wentworthville, Australia
| | | | - Fiona Maguire
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Suncica Lah
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Bland
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | | | - Allison Rifkin
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Adry Awan
- Cancer Survivor and Advisor, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Pandora Patterson
- Canteen, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fiona McDonald
- Canteen, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Western Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Westmead Hospital, Wentworthville, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Maasoumi R, Rahimi F, Naghizadeh S. Translation and validation of Persian version of sexual function: vaginal changes questionnaire (SVQ) for women with gynecologic cancers. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:283. [PMID: 35804312 PMCID: PMC9264581 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01863-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Changing in the sexual function is an important condition in women with gynecological cancers. A valid and reliable questionnaire is required to assess this condition. The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Persian version of the Sexual-Vaginal Function Changes Questionnaire (SVQ) in women with gynecologic cancers.
Methods
This methodological study with a psychometric design was conducted on 250 women with gynecologic cancers, who visited public and private medical centers in Tehran to receive follow-up services. Convenience sampling was conducted from April 2019 to May 2020. First, the Persian version of the Sexual Function-Vaginal Changes Questionnaire was developed and then, psychometric properties such as content validity, face validity, construct validity and criterion validity were assessed. Reliability of the instrument was assessed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
Results
Mean age of participants was 53.3 ± 11.8 and mean score of SVQ was 63.0 ± 9.1 in the possible range of 26–104. Content validity was tested through qualitative method and six items were revised as suggested by the expert panel. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.71 for the whole questionnaire and it was 0.93, 0.92, 0.89, 0.78, 0.88 and 0.78 for the 6 subscales, respectively, which shows the optimal internal consistency. Results of exploratory factor analysis revealed six factors as (1) intemacy and sexual interst, (2) arousal, (3) changes in intemacy and sexual interst after cancer, (4) vaginal changes after cancer, (5) vaginal bleeding during coitus, (6) and sexual worry and dissatisfaction after cancer. explained 70.09% of the variance observed. Criterion validity test of the questionnaire showed a significant correlation between the total SVQ scores and the total Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores as well as between SVQ dimensions and dimensions of FSFI (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
The findings from this study indicated that the Persian version of the SVQ is a valid and reliable instrument to assess sexual function-vaginal changes in women with gynecologic cancers.
Collapse
|
4
|
Majdalani MP, Alazraqui M. Predominant approaches in studies on health-related quality of life of young survivors of childhood or adolescent cancer: an integrative literature review. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232022278.22132021en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Survivors of childhood cancer constitute a growing population. The disease experienced, its treatment or the occurrence of late complications may affect survivors’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Understanding HRQOL is a challenge due to its conceptual complexity and the mode in which it is studied. Objective: To identify the predominant lines of research in the study of HRQOL in this population. Methods: An integrative literature review was carried out, involving a systematic search of primary articles indexed in the Scopus and PubMed databases. Results: In the 48 publications selected, four main lines of research were identified: HRQOL in survivors in general; HRQOL in long-term survivors; the study of determinants of HRQOL; and the study of methodological aspects of HRQOL measurement. A quantitative approach using generic measurement instruments predominates, and the conceptual model of HRQOL based on function emphasizes the importance of physical, psychological, and social functionality and the impact of the disease and treatment on these aspects. Conclusions: incorporating a qualitative, meaning-based approach to the understanding of lived experiences from a subjective and holistic perspective is indispensable.
Collapse
|
5
|
Majdalani MP, Alazraqui M. Predominant approaches in studies on health-related quality of life of young survivors of childhood or adolescent cancer: an integrative literature review. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022; 27:3063-3077. [PMID: 35894319 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232022278.22132021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivors of childhood cancer constitute a growing population. The disease experienced, its treatment or the occurrence of late complications may affect survivors' health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Understanding HRQOL is a challenge due to its conceptual complexity and the mode in which it is studied. OBJECTIVE To identify the predominant lines of research in the study of HRQOL in this population. METHODS An integrative literature review was carried out, involving a systematic search of primary articles indexed in the Scopus and PubMed databases. RESULTS In the 48 publications selected, four main lines of research were identified: HRQOL in survivors in general; HRQOL in long-term survivors; the study of determinants of HRQOL; and the study of methodological aspects of HRQOL measurement. A quantitative approach using generic measurement instruments predominates, and the conceptual model of HRQOL based on function emphasizes the importance of physical, psychological, and social functionality and the impact of the disease and treatment on these aspects. CONCLUSIONS incorporating a qualitative, meaning-based approach to the understanding of lived experiences from a subjective and holistic perspective is indispensable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Pía Majdalani
- División de Medicina Interna General, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires Argentina.
| | - Marcio Alazraqui
- Instituto de Salud Colectiva, Universidad Nacional de Lanús. Buenos Aires Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wayant C, Bixler K, Garrett M, Mack JW, Wright D, Vassar M. Evaluation of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures of Positive Psychosocial Constructs in Children and Adolescent/Young Adults with Cancer: A Systematic Review of Measurement Properties. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2022; 11:78-94. [PMID: 33983839 PMCID: PMC8864417 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer are a vulnerable population in whom improvements in psycho-oncology care would be valuable. We previously published a scoping review exploring what is known about positive psychological constructs in this population. A key finding was that evidence-based patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were needed to standardize psycho-oncology research. Methods: We undertook a systematic review of measurement properties focused on PROMs in the pediatric and adolescent/young adults (AYAs) with cancer populations. We searched for PROMs that measured at least 1 of 15 previously identified, key positive constructs. This systematic review followed COSMIN guidelines, considered the gold standard manual for systematic reviews of measurement properties. Results: We identified 20 (22 if proxy reports are counted separately) unique PROMs that met inclusion criteria. Of those, only five were recommended for use given the current evidence. The remainder may be used if no alternative exists. Only eight PROMs had any evidence of content validity, considered the most important psychometric property by COSMIN. Many studies were at risk of bias owing to incomplete or suboptimal methods. Discussion: Five PROMs are considered reliable for the pediatric and AYA with cancer populations. A number of PROMs require additional research to ensure their items and instructions are comprehensive, relevant, and comprehensible to children and AYAs. Given the overall lack of research, this review may be considered a starting point for the future refinement of a core set of PROMs to measure positive psychological constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cole Wayant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.,Address correspondence to: Cole Wayant, DO, PhD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK 74107, USA
| | - Kaylea Bixler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Morgan Garrett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jennifer W. Mack
- Division of Population Sciences, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Drew Wright
- Department of Information Technologies and Services, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Matt Vassar
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shunmugasundaram C, Elangovan V, Radhakrishnan V. Construction and validation of a quality of life tool for pediatric patients of Indian origin with cancer: A single-center prospective study. CANCER RESEARCH, STATISTICS, AND TREATMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/crst.crst_191_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
8
|
Loh KP, Abdallah M, Kumar AJ, Neuendorff NR, Dahiya S, Klepin HD. Health-Related Quality of Life and Treatment of Older Adults with Acute Myeloid Leukemia: a Young International Society of Geriatric Oncology Review Paper. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2019; 14:523-535. [PMID: 31776773 PMCID: PMC6938300 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-019-00552-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The treatment landscape for older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is evolving. Many treatments have comparable efficacy making their impact on quality of life (QoL) an important differentiating factor. In this review, we discuss QoL in older adults with AML, focusing on therapeutic and observational trials that have incorporated QoL assessments. RECENT FINDINGS Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a multi-dimensional concept incorporating physical, mental, emotional, and social functioning domains. HRQoL components overlap with components of geriatric assessment, a multidisciplinary diagnostic process that identifies underlying vulnerabilities of older adults and guides subsequent management strategies. HRQoL questionnaires may be general, cancer-specific, leukemia-specific, or symptom-focused. Therapeutic and observational cohort studies suggest HRQoL improves, or at least remains stable, during intensive and lower-intensity therapies. Nonetheless, HRQoL is not routinely incorporated in AML therapeutic trials. HRQoL assessments can inform both decision-making and management for older adults with AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kah Poh Loh
- James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 704, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
| | - Maya Abdallah
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Anita J Kumar
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute for Clinical Research & Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nina R Neuendorff
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Saurabh Dahiya
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heidi D Klepin
- Section on Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yeoh SF, Oxley J, Ibrahim R, Hamid TA, Syed Abd. Rashid SN. Measurement Scale Development for Mobility-Related Quality of Life among Older Malaysian Drivers. AGEING INTERNATIONAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12126-017-9310-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
10
|
Abstract
Spirituality has been identified as an important dimension of quality-of-life. The objective of this study was to review the literature on quality-of-life and spirituality, their association, and assessment tools. A search was conducted of the keyterms 'quality-of-life' and 'spirituality' in abstract or title in the databases PsycINFO and PubMed/Medline between 1979-2005, complemented by a new search at PUBMED from 2006-2016. Quality-of-life is a new concept, which encompasses and transcends the concept of health, being composed of multiple domains: physical, psychological, environmental, among others. The missing measure in health has been defined as the individual's perception of their position in life in the context of culture and value system in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards, and concerns. There is consistent evidence of an association between quality-of-life and religiosity/spirituality (R/S), through studies with reasonable methodological rigour, using several variables to assess R/S (e.g. religious affiliation, religious coping, and prayer/spirituality). There are also several valid and reliable instruments to evaluate quality-of-life and spirituality. Further studies are needed, however, especially in Brazil. Such studies will provide empirical data to be used in planning health interventions based on spirituality, seeking a better quality-of-life. In the last 10 years, research is consistently growing about quality-of-life and spirituality in many countries, and also in many areas of health research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Gehrke Panzini
- a Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| | - Bruno Paz Mosqueiro
- a Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| | - Rogério R Zimpel
- a Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| | - Denise Ruschel Bandeira
- b Department of Psychology , Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| | - Neusa S Rocha
- a Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| | - Marcelo P Fleck
- a Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre-RS , Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Aubin S, Perez S. The Clinician's Toolbox: Assessing the Sexual Impacts of Cancer on Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer (AYAC). Sex Med 2015; 3:198-212. [PMID: 26468383 PMCID: PMC4599557 DOI: 10.1002/sm2.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents and young adults aged 15-39 years who have been diagnosed with cancer (AYAC) have unique medical and psychosocial needs. Following their cancer treatments, AYAC must learn to manage the sometimes irreversible general side effects of cancer treatments including side effects that impact their sexuality. These side effects include but are not limited to: infertility, altered body/physical appearance, and sexual dysfunction. Such effects may hinder AYAC efforts to date and experiment sexually, limiting sexual maturation and confidence, as well as the formation or maintenance of meaningful couple and sexual relationships. It is clear that we need to tailor our clinical approaches to ensure that we assess the unique needs and concerns faced by AYAC. AIMS Based on consistent study findings substantiating the distinctive needs of AYAC, the main objective of this article is to present the core clinical components involved in assessing sexuality among AYAC. METHODS The clinical recommendations are based on the authors and experts' clinical experiences coupled with a thorough examination of the literature related to AYAC sexuality. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES This article first describes the three components (clinical interview, review of chart notes, and self-report questionnaires) of a sexuality assessment and the seven core domains that highlight target areas of focus. RESULTS A detailed outline of each of the core domains of assessment (socio-demographics; medical history; fertility and sexually transmitted infection; sexual functioning; sexual coping style; body and self-image; and sexual history and dating/couple experience) is presented. A "toolbox" table containing useful resources for clinicians (e.g., questionnaires and red flags) and direct resources for AYAC patients are included. CONCLUSION Cancer can have a significant impact on numerous domains of AYAC sexuality. The assessment of and attention to the impact of sexuality on AYAC is crucial in order to provide effective and comprehensive quality patient cancer care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Aubin
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General HospitalMontreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
- Louise Granofsky Psychosocial Oncology Program, Segal Cancer Center, Jewish General HospitalMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Samara Perez
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General HospitalMontreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ford JS, Puleo E, Sprunck-Harrild K, deMoor J, Emmons KM. Perceptions of risk among childhood and young adult cancer survivors who smoke. Support Care Cancer 2014; 22:2207-17. [PMID: 24659242 PMCID: PMC10360447 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-014-2165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the fact that childhood and young adult cancer survivors are at increased risk for chronic health problems as a result of their cancer treatment, many use tobacco, thereby increasing their risks. Perceptions of risk related to tobacco use can be targeted for interventions aimed at improving health behaviors for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors. Understanding the covariates of perceptions of health risks among young adult survivors who smoke will help to determine targets for intervention. METHOD Three hundred seventy-four participants who were diagnosed with cancer prior to age 35, currently between 18 and 55 years of age, and current smokers were recruited as part of a larger smoking cessation study, Partnership for Health-2 (PFH-2). Data were collected by telephone survey. RESULTS Overall, women had the highest perception of risk for serious health problems, a second cancer, and heart problems. Additionally, those participants who were dependent on nicotine endorsed that they were at higher risk of serious health problems and second cancers, but not heart problems. Finally, Hodgkin lymphoma survivors reported that they were at increased risk for second cancers and heart problems compared to their “healthy” peers. CONCLUSION Young adult cancer survivors who smoke correctly perceived some of their increased health risks. Additional motivation and education is needed for those young adult cancer survivors who perceive their increased health risks yet continue to smoke. Further education is needed for young survivors so they have a fully appropriate sense of risk, especially as it relates to their tobacco use.
Collapse
|
13
|
van Leeuwen M, Efficace F, Fosså SD, Bolla M, De Giorgi U, de Wit R, Holzner B, van de Poll-Franse LV, van Poppel H, White J, Collette L, Osanto S, Aaronson NK. Recruiting long-term survivors of European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer phase III clinical trials into quality of life studies: challenges and opportunities. Eur J Cancer 2014; 50:1957-63. [PMID: 24820932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2014.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this pilot study we evaluated the feasibility of and methods for assessing the quality of life of long term survivors of European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) phase III clinical trials. Here we report the results pertaining to the feasibility of conducting such research. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we recruited long-term, disease-free survivors from two mature EORTC clinical trials in testicular and prostate cancer from centres in Northern and Southern Europe, and the United Kingdom (UK). RESULTS A number of challenges were encountered in recruiting participating centres, obtaining medical ethical approval and in recruiting survivors and collecting the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) data in a timely manner. The efficiency with which the study could be conducted varied widely across centres and countries. Time to obtain medical ethical approval for the study ranged from 1.5 to 25 months. We encountered most problems with ethical approval in the UK, Italy and Belgium. In most cases, data collection was completed within 3 months (range 10 weeks-1 year). Completed questionnaires were obtained from 68% and 56%, respectively, of the testicular and prostate cancer survivors who were approached. CONCLUSIONS HRQoL research among long-term survivors of EORTC phase III clinical trials is possible, but the process of ethical approval and data collection is a lengthy one. To minimise many of the logistical problems, long-term follow-up of patients should be an integral part of future clinical trials. Moreover, regulations governing medical ethical approval for clinical research within the EU should be carefully evaluated to facilitate long-term follow-up of cancer survivors in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marieke van Leeuwen
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fabio Efficace
- Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Hematologic Diseases (GIMEMA) Data Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Sophie D Fosså
- Department of Clinical Cancer Research, Rikshospitalet-Radiumhospitalet Medical Center, Oslo, Norway
| | - Michel Bolla
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire A Michallon, Grenoble, France
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) - IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Ronald de Wit
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC University Hospital and the ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bernhard Holzner
- Department of Psychiatry, Innsbruck University Hospital, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | | | - Jeff White
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Center, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom(1)
| | | | - Susanne Osanto
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Neil K Aaronson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Assessing quality of life in young adult cancer survivors: development of the Survivorship-Related Quality of Life scale. Qual Life Res 2014; 23:2213-24. [PMID: 24729054 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-014-0682-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Scientific advances in treatments and outcomes for those diagnosed with cancer in late adolescence and early adulthood depend, in part, on the availability of adequate assessment tools to measure health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for survivors in this age group. Domains especially relevant to late adolescence and young adulthood (LAYA; e.g., education and career, committed romantic relationships, worldview formation) are typically overlooked in studies assessing the impact of cancer, usually more appropriate for middle-aged or older survivors. Current HRQOL measures also tend to assess issues that are salient during or shortly after treatment rather than reflecting life years after treatment. METHODS To develop a new measure to better capture the experience of LAYA cancer survivors in longer-term survivorship (the LAYA Survivorship-Related Quality of Life measure, LAYA-SRQL), we completed an extensive measure development process. After a literature review and focus groups with LAYA cancer survivors, we generated items and ran confirmatory factor and reliability analyses using a sample of 292 LAYA cancer survivors. We then examined validity using existing measures of physical and mental health, quality of life, and impact of cancer. RESULTS The final model consisted of two domains (satisfaction and impact), each consisting of ten factors: existential/spirituality, coping, relationship, dependence, vitality, health care, education/career, fertility, intimacy/sexuality, and cognition/memory. Confirmatory factor analysis and validity analyses indicated that the LAYA-SRQL is a psychometrically sound instrument with good validity. CONCLUSION The LAYA-SRQL fills an important need in survivorship research, providing a way to assess HRQOL in LAYAs in a developmentally informed way.
Collapse
|
15
|
Xu J, Qiu J, Chen J, Zou L, Feng L, Lu Y, Wei Q, Zhang J. Lifestyle and health-related quality of life: a cross-sectional study among civil servants in China. BMC Public Health 2012; 12:330. [PMID: 22559315 PMCID: PMC3432623 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been increasingly acknowledged as a valid and appropriate indicator of public health and chronic morbidity. However, limited research was conducted among Chinese civil servants owing to the different lifestyle. The aim of the study was to evaluate the HRQoL among Chinese civil servants and to identify factors might be associated with their HRQoL. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate HRQoL of 15,000 civil servants in China using stratified random sampling methods. Independent-Samples t-Test, one-way ANOVA, and multiple stepwise regression were used to analyse the influencing factors and the HRQoL of the civil servants. Results A univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences among physical component summary (PCS), mental component summary (MCS), and TS between lifestyle factors, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, having breakfast, sleep time, physical exercise, work time, operating computers, and sedentariness (P < 0.05). Multiple stepwise regressions showed that there were significant differences among TS between lifestyle factors, such as breakfast, sleep time, physical exercise, operating computers, sedentariness, work time, and drinking (P < 0.05). Conclusion In this study, using Short Form 36 items (SF-36), we assessed the association of HRQoL with lifestyle factors, including smoking, drinking alcohol, having breakfast, sleep time, physical exercise, work time, operating computers, and sedentariness in China. The performance of the questionnaire in the large-scale survey is satisfactory and provides a large picture of the HRQoL status in Chinese civil servants. Our results indicate that lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking alcohol, having breakfast, sleep time, physical exercise, work time, operating computers, and sedentariness affect the HRQoL of civil servants in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xu
- Department of Sanitation Economy Administration, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Clinton-McHarg T, Carey M, Sanson-Fisher R, D'Este C, Shakeshaft A. Preliminary development and psychometric evaluation of an unmet needs measure for adolescents and young adults with cancer: the Cancer Needs Questionnaire - Young People (CNQ-YP). Health Qual Life Outcomes 2012; 10:13. [PMID: 22284545 PMCID: PMC3317875 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7525-10-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors may have unique physical, psychological and social needs due to their cancer occurring at a critical phase of development. The aim of this study was to develop a psychometrically rigorous measure of unmet need to capture the specific needs of this group. METHODS Items were developed following a comprehensive literature review, focus groups with AYAs, and feedback from health care providers, researchers and other professionals. The measure was pilot tested with 32 AYA cancer survivors recruited through a state-based cancer registry to establish face and content validity. A main sample of 139 AYA cancer patients and survivors were recruited through seven treatment centres and invited to complete the questionnaire. To establish test-retest reliability, a sub-sample of 34 participants completed the measure a second time. Exploratory factor analysis was performed and the measure was assessed for internal consistency, discriminative validity, potential responsiveness and acceptability. RESULTS The Cancer Needs Questionnaire - Young People (CNQ-YP) has established face and content validity, and acceptability. The final measure has 70 items and six factors: Treatment Environment and Care (33 items); Feelings and Relationships (14 items); Daily Life (12 items); Information and Activities (5 items); Education (3 items); and Work (3 items). All domains achieved Cronbach's alpha values greater than 0.80. Item-to-item test-retest reliability was also high, with all but four items reaching weighted kappa values above 0.60. CONCLUSIONS The CNQ-YP is the first multi-dimensional measure of unmet need which has been developed specifically for AYA cancer patients and survivors. The measure displays a strong factor structure, and excellent internal consistency and test-retest reliability. However, the small sample size has implications for the reliability of the statistical analyses undertaken, particularly the exploratory factor analysis. Future studies with a larger sample are recommended to confirm the factor structure of the measure. Longitudinal studies to establish responsiveness and predictive validity should also be undertaken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara Clinton-McHarg
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle and the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Huang IC, Quinn GP, Wen PS, Shenkman EA, Revicki DA, Krull K, Li Z, Shearer PD. Using three legacy measures to develop a health-related quality of life tool for young adult survivors of childhood cancer. Qual Life Res 2011; 21:1437-50. [PMID: 22101901 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-011-0055-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little attention has been paid to selecting and developing health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measurement tools for young adult survivors of childhood cancer (YASCC). The primary purpose of this study was to develop a HRQOL tool for YASCC based on three legacy instruments. METHODS Data collected from 151 YASCC were analyzed. HRQOL was measured using the Medical Outcomes Study SF-36, Quality of Life in Adult Cancer Survivors, and Quality of Life-Cancer Survivor. We used the following stages to develop our HRQOL tool: mapping items from three instruments into a common HRQOL construct, checking dimensionality using confirmatory factor analyses (CFA), and equating items using Rasch modeling. RESULTS We assigned 123 items to a HRQOL construct comprised of six generic and eight survivor-specific domains. CFA retained 107 items that meet the assumptions of unidimensionality and local independence. Rasch analysis retained 68 items that satisfied the indices of information-weighted/outlier-sensitive fit statistic mean square. However, items in most domains possess relatively easy measurement properties, whereas YASCC's underlying HRQOL was on the middle to higher levels. CONCLUSIONS Psychometric properties of the established tool for measuring HRQOL of YASCC were not satisfied. Future studies need to refine this tool, especially adding more challenging items.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I-Chan Huang
- Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nightingale CL, Quinn GP, Shenkman EA, Curbow BA, Zebrack BJ, Krull KR, Huang IC. Health-Related Quality of Life of Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Review of Qualitative Studies. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2011; 1:124-132. [PMID: 23610733 PMCID: PMC3621306 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2011.0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The occurrence of late effects, combined with traditional growth and developmental issues, can significantly affect the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of young adult survivors of childhood cancer (YASCC). Limited HRQOL measurement tools have been developed or validated for YASCC. The purpose of this study was to identify the domains of HRQOL that are unique to YASCC by conducting a systematic review of qualitative studies. Specifically, we compared the findings to the classical framework of HRQOL that was developed for survivors of adult-onset cancer and identified specific domains not being assessed in existing HRQOL instruments for YASCC. Methods: We searched qualitative studies published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2010 in the PsychINFO, PubMed, and EBSCOhost databases. A set of keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria were utilized to identify eligible studies with a focus on survivorship and HRQOL issues of YASCC. Results: Sixteen studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were investigated in this study. Six important domains of HRQOL were identified (physical, social, psychological, spiritual, fertility/sexual, resilience, and body appearance) with several sub-domains. Conclusion: Use of the classical HRQOL framework and existing instruments is not comprehensive enough for YASCC. Adding unique domains to the classical framework and existing instruments will make them valuable tools for measuring the HRQOL of YASCC and increase health professionals' ability to identify if and when psychosocial services are needed for this unique population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chandylen L. Nightingale
- Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, College of Medicine, University of South Florida, and Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Elizabeth A. Shenkman
- Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, and Institute for Child Health Policy, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Barbara A. Curbow
- Department of Behavioral Science and Community Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Kevin R. Krull
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - I-Chan Huang
- Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, and Institute for Child Health Policy, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lehmann V, Oerlemans S, van de Poll-Franse LV, Vingerhoets AJJM, Mols F. Suffering in long-term cancer survivors: an evaluation of the PRISM-R2 in a population-based cohort. Qual Life Res 2011; 20:1645-54. [PMID: 21499801 PMCID: PMC3220815 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-011-9911-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Pictorial Representation of Illness and Self Measure-Revised 2 (PRISM-R2) has been developed as generic measure to assess suffering. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of this instrument to identify long-term cancer survivors with high levels of suffering who may need additional support. METHODS 1299 cancer survivors completed the PRISM-R2, the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivors questionnaire (QoL-CS). The PRISM-R2 distinguishes between the Self-Illness Separation (SIS) and Illness Perception Measure (IPM), both measuring aspects of suffering. RESULTS 112 (9%) cancer survivors reported high suffering according to IPM. This group had a higher cancer stage at diagnosis, more cancer recurrences, more comorbidities, and were lower educated compared to people reporting less suffering. The PRISM-R2 could explain substantial amounts of variance (10-14%) in the psychological aspects of the SF-36 and QoL-CS. The IPM also discriminated statistically and clinically significant between high- and low-health status. CONCLUSION The PRISM-R2 proved to be able to discriminate between individuals with good and deteriorated levels of QoL. Further evaluation of its validity and screening potential is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Lehmann
- Department of Medical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Center of Research on Psychology in Somatic Diseases, Tilburg University, Warandelaan 2, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Clinton-McHarg T, Carey M, Sanson-Fisher R, Shakeshaft A, Rainbird K. Measuring the psychosocial health of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors: a critical review. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2010; 8:25. [PMID: 20205922 PMCID: PMC2850329 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7525-8-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Accepted: 03/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors require psychometrically rigorous measures to assess their psychosocial well-being. Without methodologically adequate scales the accuracy of information obtained on the prevalence of needs, predictors of risk, and the potential success of any interventions, can be questioned. This review assessed the psychometric properties of measures designed specifically to identify the psychosocial health of this unique population. Methods Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL and EMBASE databases were searched to identify measures developed to assess the psychosocial health of AYA cancer survivors. Searches were limited to the years 1998-2008. A search of Medline revealed that the number of publications related to the assessment of psychosocial well-being in AYA cancer survivors prior to this period were minimal. The psychometric properties of identified measures were evaluated against pre-determined and generally accepted psychometric criteria including: reliability (internal consistency and test-retest); validity (face, content, construct, and criterion); responsiveness; acceptability; and feasibility. Results Seven quality of life measures met the inclusion criteria. No measures of unmet need were identified. All seven measures reported adequate internal consistency, face, content, and construct validity. Test-retest reliability, criterion (predictive) validity, responsiveness, acceptability, and feasibility were rarely examined. Conclusions There is a need to further evaluate the psychometric properties of existing quality of life measures for AYA cancer survivors. Valid, reliable, and acceptable measures which can assess the psychosocial needs of this population should also be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara Clinton-McHarg
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour (PRCHB), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Developing a new instrument to assess the impact of cancer in young adult survivors of childhood cancer. J Cancer Surviv 2009; 3:174-80. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-009-0087-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2009] [Accepted: 04/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
22
|
van de Poll-Franse LV, Mols F, Essink-Bot ML, Haartsen JE, Vingerhoets AJJM, Lybeert MLM, van den Berg HA, Coebergh JWW. Impact of External Beam Adjuvant Radiotherapy on Health-Related Quality of Life for Long-Term Survivors of Endometrial Adenocarcinoma: A Population-Based Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2007; 69:125-32. [PMID: 17544600 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2007.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2006] [Revised: 02/13/2007] [Accepted: 02/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among 5-10-year survivors of Stage I-II endometrial (adeno-)carcinoma (EC) treated with surgery alone or surgery with external beam adjuvant radiotherapy (EBRT) and an age-matched norm population. METHODS AND MATERIALS A population-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted by the Eindhoven Cancer Registry. All patients were included who had been diagnosed with EC between 1994 and 1998 (n = 462). Information from the questionnaires returned was linked to data from the Eindhoven Cancer Registry on patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics. RESULTS Responses were received from 75% of the patients. The analyses were restricted to women with Stage I-II disease at diagnosis, treated with either surgery alone or surgery with adjuvant EBRT, and without recurrent disease or new primary malignancies (n = 264). The patients who had received adjuvant EBRT (n = 80) had had a significantly higher tumor stage and grade at diagnosis (p < 0.0001) and a longer mean time since diagnosis (p = 0.04). Age, number of comorbid diseases, current marital status, nulliparity, education, and occupation were similar for both treatment groups. On multivariate analyses, adjuvant EBRT was independently and negatively associated with the vitality and physical and social well-being scale scores. The HRQOL scores of both treatment groups, however, were similar to those of an age-matched norm population. CONCLUSION In general, the HRQOL of EC survivors is good. EC survivors treated with surgery alone had a better HRQOL than women treated with surgery and adjuvant EBRT, although for both groups, the HRQOL was in the range of the norm population.
Collapse
|
23
|
Mols F, Aaronson NK, Vingerhoets AJJM, Coebergh JWW, Vreugdenhil G, Lybeert MLM, van de Poll-Franse LV. Quality of life among long-term non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors. Cancer 2007; 109:1659-67. [PMID: 17330853 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.22581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this population-based study was to document the long-term effects (5-15 years postdiagnosis) of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and its treatment on health-related quality of life (HRQL) and social problems. METHODS The population-based Eindhoven Cancer Registry was used to select all patients who were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma from 1989 to 1998. Three hundred sixty patients were invited to complete the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivors questionnaire, and 294 patients (82%) responded. RESULTS Patients who had received chemotherapy reported significantly worse psychological and social well-being and health-related quality of life (HRQL) than patients who had not received chemotherapy. Radiotherapy and watchful waiting were not associated significantly with HRQL outcomes. Patients who were diagnosed from 10 to 15 years earlier reported better social well-being than patients who were diagnosed from 5 to 9 years earlier. Compared with an age-matched, normative sample from the general population, patients reported significantly worse general health and less vitality, but they reported less bodily pain. Practical problems were reported with work (41%), obtaining health care insurance (6%) and life insurance (15%), and obtaining a home mortgage (22%). CONCLUSIONS From 5 to 15 years after diagnosis, the general health perceptions and vitality levels of non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors remained significantly lower than those of their peers in the of general population. In addition, survivors faced practical problems with work and finances that deserve additional attention during the period of rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floortje Mols
- Comprehensive Cancer Center South, Eindhoven Cancer Registry, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mols F, Helfenrath KA, Vingerhoets AJJM, Coebergh JWW, van de Poll-Franse LV. Increased health care utilization among long-term cancer survivors compared to the average Dutch population: A population-based study. Int J Cancer 2007; 121:871-7. [PMID: 17417782 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.22739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, self-reported health care utilization of cancer survivors is compared with those of an age- and gender-matched normative population and predictors of health care utilization are identified. A population-based, cross-sectional survey among 1893 long-term survivors of endometrial and prostate cancer and malignant lymphomas (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's) diagnosed between 1989 and 1998 was conducted using the cancer registry of the Comprehensive Cancer Centre South. Cancer survivors visited their general practitioner somewhat more often compared to the age and gender-matched general Dutch population but this effect was not always statistically significant. In addition, they visited their medical specialist significantly more often. Survivors only sporadically (0-3%) visited or required a dietician, sexologist, oncology nurse, pastor, creative therapy or recovery program. Contact with a psychologist, physiotherapist and other cancer survivors took place somewhat more often. Patients visited a medical specialist less often if they were diagnosed with endometrial cancer (OR = 0.2; 95% CI = 0.1-0.5), if they were diagnosed between 10-15 years ago (OR = 0.6; 95% CI = 0.1-0.5) and if they were not married or divorced (OR = 0.5; 95% CI = 0.3-0.9). Contact with a psychologist was related to having a university or college degree (OR = 3.6; 95% CI = 1.3-9.4). Cancer survivors visited their specialist more often compared to the normative population. Changes in health care, such as less administrative work for the specialist and more efficiency, are probably necessary in order to cope adequately with the increasing demand on the system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floortje Mols
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre South (CCCS), Eindhoven Cancer Registry, 5600 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mols F, van de Poll-Franse LV, Vingerhoets AJJM, Hendrikx A, Aaronson NK, Houterman S, Coebergh JWW, Essink-Bot ML. Long-term quality of life among Dutch prostate cancer survivors: results of a population-based study. Cancer 2006; 107:2186-96. [PMID: 17013914 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.22231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this report, the authors describe the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of long-term prostate cancer survivors 5 to 10 years after diagnosis and compare it with the HRQL of an age-matched, normative sample of the general Dutch population. METHODS The population-based Eindhoven Cancer Registry was used to select all men who were diagnosed with prostate cancer from 1994 to 1998. Nine hundred sixty-four patients received questionnaires (the 36-item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36] and the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivors questionnaire), and 780 of 964 patients responded (81%). RESULTS Unselected, long-term prostate cancer survivors reported comparable HRQL scores but worse General Health Perceptions and better Mental Health scores than an age-matched, normative population. Patients who underwent radical prostatectomy had the highest physical HRQL, followed by patients who received 'watchful waiting,' and patients who received radiotherapy. Patients who received hormone treatment, in general, had the lowest physical HRQL. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggested that the long-term HRQL of prostate cancer survivors may vary significantly as a function of the type of primary treatment. Because baseline differences between treatment groups cannot be excluded as part of the explanation for these differences, the current findings need to be verified in longitudinal studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floortje Mols
- Comprehensive Cancer Center South, Eindhoven Cancer Registry, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mols F, Vingerhoets AJJM, Coebergh JW, Vreugdenhil G, Aaronson NK, Lybeert MLM, van de Poll-Franse LV. Better quality of life among 10–15 year survivors of Hodgkin’s lymphoma compared to 5–9 year survivors: A population-based study. Eur J Cancer 2006; 42:2794-801. [PMID: 16996260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2006.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2006] [Accepted: 08/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study describes the quality of life (QoL) of long-term Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors and compares it to an age-matched normative sample. The population-based Eindhoven Cancer Registry was used to select all patients diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma from 1989 to 1998. Eighty percent of survivors completed the SF-36 and the quality of life-cancer survivors questionnaire. QoL was better among patients diagnosed 10-15 years ago compared to patients diagnosed 5-9 years ago. The patients diagnosed 5-9 years ago experienced lower general health, social functioning, mental health and vitality compared to an age-matched normative sample, while the patients diagnosed 10-15 years earlier reported lower general health but better physical functioning. Most patients reported that their work situation did not change. Problems pertaining to the obtainment of health insurance, life insurance and mortgages were high. QoL among Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors is lower compared to an age-matched normative sample. Survivors furthermore experience some (financial) problems in the years after diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floortje Mols
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre South, Eindhoven Cancer Registry, P.O. Box 231, 5600 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
van Dis FW, Mols F, Vingerhoets AJJM, Ferrell B, van de Poll-Franse LV. A Validation Study of the Dutch Version of the Quality of Life – Cancer Survivor (QOL-CS) Questionnaire in a Group of Prostate Cancer Survivors. Qual Life Res 2006; 15:1607-12. [PMID: 16826441 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-006-0015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to validate the Dutch version of the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivor (QOL-CS) questionnaire using a group of Dutch prostate cancer survivors. The QOL-CS was specifically designed to measure the quality of life of long-term cancer survivors. We performed a population-based, cohort study of 784 prostate cancer survivors who were diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1994 and 1998. To determine the test-retest reliability, second questionnaires were sent to 109 participants, of whom 103 (94%) returned the forms. The quality of life in Dutch long-term prostate cancer survivors was adequately measured by the physical, psychological and social well-being subscale and can be used in order to measure the specific aspects of quality of life important to cancer survivors. However, as the subscale spiritual well-being showed a low internal consistency, which could be related to cultural background, it seems to be appropriate to evaluate the validity and reliability of the QOL-CS in other cultural settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Femke W van Dis
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre South (IKZ), Eindhoven Cancer Registry, 5600 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Boehmer S, Luszczynska A. Two Kinds of Items in Quality of Life Instruments: ‘Indicator and Causal Variables’ in the EORTC QLQ-C30. Qual Life Res 2006; 15:131-41. [PMID: 16411037 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-005-8290-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2005] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Two kinds of variables may be differentiated within instruments measuring health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Physical symptoms may be called causal variables because their occurrence can cause a change in HRQOL, but poor HRQOL need not necessarily imply that a patient suffers from these symptoms. Other items can be regarded as indicator variables. They reflect the level of HRQOL and a patient with a poor HRQOL is likely to have low scores on all indicator variables. The aim of this study was to test the relationship of the latent HRQOL construct to items and domains on the EORTC QLQ-C30. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed on EORTC QLQ-C30 data from 205 gastrointestinal cancer patients assessed one month after surgery. Functioning scales were established as variables indicating the level of HRQOL whereas all other subscales and items were established as variables causing a change in HRQOL. The model-data fit was satisfactory. Results support the hypothesis that two kinds of variables may be differentiated within HRQOL instruments. Further research should investigate whether both kinds of variables could be combined into a higher order, aggregate score for HRQOL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Boehmer
- Department of Health Psychology, Free Universität of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Affiliation(s)
- Brad J Zebrack
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|