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Luo X, Xu H, Zhang Y, Liu S, Xu S, Xie Y, Xiao J, Hu T, Xiao H. Identifying the unmet needs of post-treatment colorectal cancer survivors: A critical literature review. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 70:102570. [PMID: 38574419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102570] [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] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Following treatment completion, colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors experience various unmet needs. This review aims to synthesize the unmet needs of CRC survivors after treatment and to identify demographic, disease or treatment-related, healthcare-related, and psychosocial factors correlated with unmet needs. METHOD English or Chinese articles that focused on CRC survivors' post-treatment unmet needs were systematically searched from the five electronic databases, which included CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and the China Academic Journal Full-text Database, from the launch of databases to July 2023. The reference lists of the subsequent articles were further screened. RESULTS 136 individual needs extracted from 50 manuscripts were classified into nine domains based on the Supportive Care Framework. The top four unmet needs identified by CRC survivors were assistance with fears of cancer recurrence, information about managing illness and side effects at home, emotional or psychological support and reassurance, and help with sexuality problems. Following surgery, CRC survivors showed strong demand in the physical, psychological, and information domains. Survivors completed treatment within 1-year had more diverse needs than those who completed 1-3 years. Unmet needs may be greater among CRC survivors who were young, female, more educated, and unmarried. Furthermore, greater unmet needs were associated with distress, anxiety, depression, and worse quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Despite diverse needs experienced by post-treatment CRC survivors, a predominant focus on fears of cancer recurrence, information, psychological support, and sexuality needs is noted. Future studies should further explore the needs of CRC survivors after specific treatment and in different post-treatment periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingjuan Luo
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Haiying Xu
- Nursing Department, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Yanting Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Sirun Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Shan Xu
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Yali Xie
- Nursing Department, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Juan Xiao
- Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Diseases, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China.
| | - Tingting Hu
- Nursing Department, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China.
| | - Hong Xiao
- Nursing Department, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China.
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Cihan E, Vural F. Effect of a telephone-based perioperative nurse-led counselling programme on unmet needs, quality of life and sexual function in colorectal cancer patients: A non-randomised quasi-experimental study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 68:102504. [PMID: 38310665 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102504] [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] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of perioperative nurse-led counselling intervention on unmet needs, sexual function and quality of life in colorectal cancer patients. METHOD This quasi-experimental study included 82 patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery (control n = 45, intervention n = 37). The telephone-based perioperative nurse-led counselling intervention, which contained implementation, follow-up, and assessment, was applied to start from pre-surgery to post-surgery 3rd month. Data were collected with the Unmet Needs of Cancer Survivors Scale, European Organisation for Treatment and Research of Cancer Quality of Life Scale-30, Colorectal-29, Female Sexual Function Index, and International Index of Erectile Function pre- and post-surgery 3rd-6th months. The control data was collected before the pandemic, and the intervention group throughout the pandemic. The Mann-Whitney-U, Wilcoxon rank test was used. RESULTS Compared to the control group, intervention group patients reported lower unmet and total needs scores (p = 0.000); higher quality of life (p = 0.000), physical, emotional (p = 0.000), role (p = 0.001), and social functioning scores (p = 0.002); lower fatigue (p = 0.000), constipation (p = 0.034), pain (p = 0.018), nausea-vomiting (p = 0.004), and insomnia scores (p = 0.003); and higher body image, anxiety (p = 0.000) and weight scores (p = 0.003), lower urinary frequency buttock pain (p = 0.000), dysuria (p = 0.001), abdominal pain (p = 0.001), fluctuance (p = 0.000), stool frequency (p = 0.002), and faecal incontinence (p = 0.006) scores at the sixth month (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between male and female sexual function scores (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Perioperative nurse-led counselling reduced unmet needs and increased the overall quality of life by decreasing symptom levels but did not affect sexual health outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Cihan
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kutahya Health Sciences University, 43100, Kutahya, Turkey.
| | - Fatma Vural
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Dokuz Eylul University, 35100, Izmir, Turkey.
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Yoon J, Jeong D, Son H. Types of Social Support That Colorectal Cancer Survivors Need by Treatment Phase: A Text-Mining Analysis. Cancer Nurs 2023; 46:E375-E383. [PMID: 35943188 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluating the needs of colorectal cancer survivors is critical for developing and providing effective supportive services; however, little is known about the specific needs of the survivors. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine the types of social support that colorectal cancer survivors need at each treatment phase. METHODS Data were extracted using text-mining analysis from posts on an online self-help group for colorectal cancer survivors in Korea from 2011 to 2020. Classification analysis was performed based on the frequency of terms posted, and word clouds were created. RESULTS In the pretreatment phase, support for pain and diagnostic testing were needed. In the treatment phase, needing support for colorectal cancer treatment and managing subsequent adverse events were frequently mentioned. In the posttreatment phase, informational interventions providing information on adjusting to changes in bowel functions and preventing cancer recurrence were needed. CONCLUSIONS There were differences in the types of social support and the number of words frequently used across phases of treatment, highlighting the need for phase-specific supportive interventions. The highest identified needs, including colorectal cancer treatment and adverse events in the treatment phase, suggest that colorectal cancer survivors need additional information about treatment within the healthcare system. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Colorectal cancer survivors have specific needs that vary by their treatment stage. Supportive services that reflect the needs of each treatment phase are needed to improve the physical and mental health and quality of life of colorectal cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaehee Yoon
- Author Affiliations: Wolchon Elementary School (Dr Yoon); Hongik University Library, Hongik University (Mr Jeong); and Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University (Dr Son), Seoul, South Korea
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Drury A, O'Brien A, O'Connell L, Cosgrave S, Hannan M, Smyth C, Fessele K, Harkin M, Rogers L. Setting a Patient-Driven Agenda for Cancer Research Priorities in Geriatric Oncology: A Qualitative Study. Semin Oncol Nurs 2023; 39:151463. [PMID: 37419848 PMCID: PMC11166470 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to explore older adults' perceptions of priorities for research in cancer and hematological malignancies and proposes an agenda of patient-driven priorities for cancer care research in the field of geriatric oncology. DATA SOURCES Sixteen older adults (≥65 years) living with or after a diagnosis of cancer participated in a descriptive qualitative study. Participants were purposively recruited via a regional cancer center and cancer advocacy organizations. Semistructured telephone interviews explored participants' experiences of cancer and perceptions of priorities for future cancer-related research. CONCLUSION Participants reported positive experiences of cancer care. However, positive and negative experiences of information, symptoms, and support both within and beyond the hospital setting were highlighted. Forty-two research priorities in six thematic areas were identified: 1) recognition of the signs and symptoms of cancer; 2) research about cancer treatment; 3) assessment and management of comorbidities; 4) unmet needs of older adults living with and after cancer; 5) impact of COVID-19; and 6) impact on caregivers and family members of people living with and after cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE The results of this study provide a basis for future priority-setting activities that are culturally and contextually sensitive to health care systems, resources, and needs of older adults living with and after cancer. Based on the findings of this study, we make recommendations for the development of interventions that can build awareness, capacity, and competence in geriatric oncology among cancer care professionals and consideration of the diverse needs of older adults in the development of interventions to address unmet information and supportive care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Drury
- Associate Professor in General Nursing, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Aoife O'Brien
- Research Assistant, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Liz O'Connell
- Haematology Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Haematology Department, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sarah Cosgrave
- Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Caritas Day Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michelle Hannan
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Geriatric Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Waterford, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Caroline Smyth
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Community Intervention Team, Anam Cara, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kristen Fessele
- Nurse Scientist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Office of Nursing Research, New York, New York
| | - Mary Harkin
- Research & Evaluation Manager, Age & Opportunity Lisa Rogers, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lisa Rogers
- Research Assistant, School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Ju A, Wiltink L, Walker J, White K, Rutherford C. Supportive care interventions for managing gastrointestinal symptoms following treatment for colorectal cancer: a systematic review. J Cancer Surviv 2023:10.1007/s11764-023-01403-3. [PMID: 37280309 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01403-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Colorectal cancer (CRC) is prevalent in the developed world, with unhealthy lifestyles and diet contributing to rising incidence. Advances in effective screening, diagnosis, and treatments have led to improved survival rates, but CRC survivors suffer poorer long-term gastrointestinal consequences than the general population. However, the current state of clinical practice around provision of health services and treatment options remains unclear. PURPOSE We aimed to identify what supportive care interventions are available to manage gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms for CRC survivors. METHODS We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL from 2000 to April 2022 for resources, services, programs, or interventions to address GI symptoms and functional outcomes in CRC. We extracted information about characteristics of supportive care interventions, the study design, and sample characteristics from included studies, and performed a narrative synthesis RESULTS: Of 3807 papers retrieved, seven met the eligibility criteria. Types of interventions for managing or improving GI symptoms included two rehabilitation, one exercise, one educational, one dietary, and one pharmacological. Pelvic floor muscle exercise may help to resolve GI symptoms more quickly in the post-operative recovery phase. Survivors may also benefit from rehabilitation programs through improved self-management strategies, especially administered soon after completing primary treatment. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Despite a high prevalence and burden of GI symptoms post-treatment, there is limited evidence for supportive care interventions to help manage or alleviate these symptoms. More, large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to identify effective interventions for managing GI symptoms that occur post-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Ju
- School of Psychology, Sydney Quality of Life Office, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia.
| | - Lisette Wiltink
- School of Psychology, Sydney Quality of Life Office, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jared Walker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kate White
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Cancer Care Research Unit (CCRU), The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Claudia Rutherford
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Cancer Care Research Unit (CCRU), The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, Australia
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Haas S, Mikkelsen AH, Kronborg CJS, Oggesen BT, Møller PF, Fassov J, Frederiksen NA, Krogsgaard M, Graugaard-Jensen C, Ventzel L, Christensen P, Emmertsen KJ. Management of treatment-related sequelae following colorectal cancer. Colorectal Dis 2023; 25:458-488. [PMID: 35969031 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Colorectal cancer survivors are one of the most rapidly growing groups of patients living with and beyond cancer. In a national multidisciplinary setting, we have examined the extent of late treatment-related sequelae in colorectal cancer survivors and present the scientific evidence for management of these conditions in this patient category with the aim of facilitating identification and treatment. METHOD A systematic search for existing guidelines and relevant studies was performed across 16 and 4 databases, respectively, from inception to 2021. This yielded 13 guidelines and 886 abstracts, of which 188 were included in the finalized guideline (231 included for full text review). Secondarily, bibliographies were cross-referenced and 53 additional articles were included. RESULTS Symptoms have been divided into overall categories including psychosocial, bowel-related, urinary, sexual (male and female), pain/neuropathy and fatigue symptoms or complaints that are examined individually. Merging and grading of data resulted in 22 recommendations and 42 management strategies across categories. Recommendations are of a more general character, whereas management strategies provide more practical advice suited for initiation on site before referral to specialized units. CONCLUSION Treatment-related sequelae in colorectal cancer survivors are common and attention needs to be focused on identifying patients with unmet treatment needs and the development of evidence-based treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Haas
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Pia F Møller
- Department of Surgery, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Janne Fassov
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Lise Ventzel
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katrine Jøssing Emmertsen
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
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Kim YI, Park IJ, Kim CW, Yoon YS, Lim SB, Yu CS, Kim JC, Lee Y, Kim H, Chung S, Choi CM, Lee HJ, Kim KW, Ko Y, Yun SC, Jo MW, Lee JW. Lifestyle interventions after colorectal cancer surgery using a mobile digital device: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31264. [PMID: 36254015 PMCID: PMC9575786 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In treating colorectal cancer, surgical techniques and adjuvant treatments have advanced over the past century, but relatively less attention has been given to improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Recent studies report a significant association between cancer recurrence and patient lifestyle after surgery, hence emphasizing the need to assist patients to reduce this risk through appropriate lifestyle choices. The proposed study will evaluate the effects of digital interventions on lifestyle after surgery for colorectal cancer using mobile applications. METHODS A randomized controlled trial design was proposed. A total of 320 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer aged between 20 and 70 years were to be enrolled and randomized in equal numbers into 4 groups (3 groups assigned to different mobile applications and a control group). Surveys that evaluate HRQOL, physical measurements, and metabolic parameters (fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1C, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and fat/muscle mass measurements by abdominal computed tomography (CT), will be conducted prior to surgery and every 6 months post-surgery for 18 months. Statistical analysis will be used to compare the outcomes between groups. DISCUSSION Results from this study could provide evidence that easily accessible mobile applications can influence patient lifestyles. Results showing minimal effects of such applications could also be constructive for improving healthcare-related applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Il Kim
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - In Ja Park
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- *Correspondence: In Ja Park, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of College of Medicine, 88, Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05505, Korea (e-mail: )
| | - Chan Wook Kim
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Sik Yoon
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok-Byung Lim
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Sik Yu
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Cheon Kim
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yura Lee
- Department of Information Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Harin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Min Choi
- Department of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Centre, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hui Jeong Lee
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Won Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yousun Ko
- Biomedical Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Cheol Yun
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Clinical Research Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Woo Jo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Won Lee
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Sitarz J, Spencer C. Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia: Examining Patient Perceptions and Adherence to Home Haircare Recommendations. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2022; 26:190-197. [PMID: 35302555 DOI: 10.1188/22.cjon.190-197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is one of the most distressing side effects experienced by patients with cancer. Although most chemotherapy-induced alopecia is temporary, this side effect can cause significant anxiety and may lead to refusal of curative treatment. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to examine patient perceptions and measure adherence to haircare recommendations throughout the course of treatment while using scalp cooling therapy in addition to learning which haircare recommendations were the most onerous. METHODS This was a cross-sectional observational and descriptive study that used repeated-measures survey data. Participants completed electronic surveys during each treatment corresponding with the current treatment phase. FINDINGS Final survey results revealed that most participants adhered to haircare recommendations with little difficulty and that the recommendations had an insignificant impact on daily lives.
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Martin E, Hocking C, Sandham M. The occupational impact of bowel cancer: Survivors' voices and advancing the role of occupational therapy assessment and intervention. Aust Occup Ther J 2021; 69:117-128. [PMID: 34658023 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the occupational impact (i.e., how engagement in occupation is affected) of having had bowel cancer and the role of occupational therapy with bowel cancer survivors and their significant others. METHODS Two rounds of semi-structured interviews were carried out with individuals who had completed treatment for bowel cancer, with interviews designed to gain insight into their occupational experiences post treatment. Thematic analysis was utilised to construct themes and patterns founded on the perceptions of participants. Analysis involved concurrent data collection and analysis, constant comparative analysis, and iterative analysis. FINDINGS Eighteen participants were interviewed, with occupational impact evident across multiple aspects of everyday life. Four themes were identified: Changes in eating habits, changes in toileting habits, changes in relationships, and rethinking occupational choices. CONCLUSION Findings of the occupational impact of having had bowel cancer reveal a possible role for occupational therapists with people affected by bowel cancer. Occupation focused assessments and self-management programmes are identified as a possible means of meeting the needs of this population, making use of the experiences of peers to provide a credible, relatable voice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Martin
- Otago Polytechnic, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Clare Hocking
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Margaret Sandham
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Drury A, Payne S, Brady AM. Prevalence vs impact: a mixed methods study of survivorship issues in colorectal cancer. Qual Life Res 2021; 31:1117-1134. [PMID: 34417713 PMCID: PMC8960628 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02975-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to explore the prevalence of CRC survivorship issues and their impact on survivors’ quality of life (QoL). Methods This study utilised a mixed methods sequential explanatory design. Adult CRC survivors between 6- and 60-months post-diagnosis (n = 304) were purposively recruited from three hospitals and twenty-one cancer support centres in Ireland. QoL was evaluated using the EuroQol and FACT-C questionnaires and results compared to population norms. 22 survey participants took part in semi-structured interviews exploring the impact of survivorship issues on their daily lives. Results While CRC survivors reported QoL outcomes comparable to or better than normative populations, 54% were dissatisfied with their QoL. The most common survivorship issues reported included negative body image (74%), fatigue (68%), sexual dysfunction (66%) and sleep disturbance (59%). Thematic analysis of the qualitative data illustrated survivors’ attempts to live with the impact of cancer and its treatment (loss, fear, impact) and striving to contextualise, reframe and understand the consequences of cancer and its treatment (control, vigilance, benefit). Within these themes, the cross-domain impact of less prevalent symptoms including bowel dysfunction (28–57%) and peripheral neuropathy (47%) were widely discussed. Conclusions Although cancer survivors report positive QoL outcomes, many experience distressing physical, psychological and social effects. The findings suggest less common and difficult to manage symptoms are the greatest source of distress and unmet need. Support and information must be tailored to address survivors’ individual needs and preferences for support, informed by holistic person-centred assessment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11136-021-02975-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Drury
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Sheila Payne
- Division of Health Research, International Observatory on End of Life Care, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4AT, UK
| | - Anne-Marie Brady
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, 24 D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, D02 T283, Ireland
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Lim CYS, Laidsaar-Powell RC, Young JM, Kao SCH, Zhang Y, Butow P. Colorectal cancer survivorship: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative research. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13421. [PMID: 33733545 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With rapid changes in treatments for colorectal cancer (CRC), qualitative research into CRC survivorship requires greater synthesis. This paper aims to fill this gap through a systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42019131576) and thematic synthesis of the qualitative literature on survivorship experiences across early-stage and advanced CRC survivors. METHODS CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PubMed were searched for qualitative CRC survivorship papers. Titles, abstracts and full texts were screened. Included articles (n = 81) underwent data extraction, CASP qualitative bias ratings and thematic synthesis. RESULTS Bowel dysfunction caused functional limitations and negative quality of life (QoL), while stomas posed threats to body image and confidence. Physical symptoms hindered return to work, increasing financial burdens. Survivors' unmet needs included information regarding symptom expectations and management, and ongoing support throughout recovery. Advanced and early-stage survivors shared similar experiences. Advanced survivors struggled with fear of cancer recurrence/progression and feelings of powerlessness. Functional limitations, financial impacts and sexuality in advanced survivors were underexplored areas. CONCLUSION CRC and its treatments impact survivors' QoL in all areas. A coordinated supportive care response is required to address survivors' unmet needs. Future qualitative studies should explore advanced CRC subpopulations, treatment-specific impacts on QoL and long-term (>5 years) impacts on CRC survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Yi Shing Lim
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making (CeMPED), School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebekah Clare Laidsaar-Powell
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making (CeMPED), School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane M Young
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,RPA Institute of Academic Surgery (IAS) and Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe), Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven Chuan-Hao Kao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yuehan Zhang
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University Research School of Population Health, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Phyllis Butow
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making (CeMPED), School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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