1684P - Insights into the daily lives and perceptions of cancer survivors: What hides beyond survival?

Background

Survival rates for cancer have improved steadily. Consequently, the late physical and psychological effects of treatment may negatively impact the well-being of cancer survivors. This study aimed to provide an overview of patients' lives after remission and their evolving perceptions.

Methods

In the absence of a validated questionnaire suitable to our study, we conducted a cross-sectional survey including 110 cancer survivors regardless of gender, age, and cancer site using a self-developed questionnaire designed to explore various aspects of survivors’ lives, including functional, social and emotional well-being.

Results

Median age was 58 years [37-81] and 75% of patients were women. Median follow up was 45 months [24-101]. Breast cancer was the most common cancer (44%), followed by colorectal (32.7%) and gynecologic (17.3%) cancers. All patients received chemotherapy, 33% had hormone therapy, 65.5% had radiotherapy and 96 % underwent surgery. Thirty-three patients (30%) reported ongoing fatigue and lack of energy, while 25.9% experienced cognitive decline. Persistent pain was reported by 40% of survivors. Those treated with oxaliplatin or taxane-based chemotherapy reported peripheral neuropathy in 38.4% of cases. Positive lifestyle changes were reported in 42 patients (38.9%), including adoption of healthier eating habits (40.9%), engaging in sports (31%), and an increased commitment to religious practices (14.3%). Sixty-one percent of patients resumed work, with 15.7% undergoing job reassignment. Sixty percent expressed greater appreciation for life post-cancer, and 70.9% felt their lives had acquired deeper meaning. Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) was reported by 44 patients (40%), significantly more prevalent among females (61% vs 40%, p=0.038) and those under 50 years old (69% vs 42%, p=0.001). Sleep disturbances were reported by 41 patients (37.3%), significantly impacted by FCR (OR= 3.77 [1.12-7.87]) and pain (OR= 2.56 [1.08-5.87]).

Conclusions

Years after cancer, patients have to deal with changes concerning their physical and emotional well-being. Thus, treatment protocols should be well-considered and follow-up programs should target these disturbances timely.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

The authors.

Funding

Has not received any funding.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.