Prevalence and predictors of depression, pain, and fatigue in older- versus younger-adult cancer survivors

Social determinants of health and depressive symptoms before and after cancer diagnosis

Despite frequent reports of mental health needs among older women with cancer, depressive symptoms often go unrecognized and untreated, particularly in socially vulnerable survivors. Here, we examined associations of sociodemographic factors and social limitations with depressive symptoms from pre-diagnosis to post-diagnosis in older women diagnosed with breast or gynecological cancer. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (SEER-MHOS) linked dataset, we used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between sociodemographic factors (race, ethnicity, marital status, rurality) and social limitations (i.e., health interfering with social activities) on depressive symptoms in women aged ≥65 years with breast or gynecologic cancer (n = 1,353). Most participants had breast cancer (82.0%), stage I-II cancer (85.8%), received surgery for their cancer (94.8%), and radiation treatment (50.6%). Prior to diagnosis, 11.8% reported depressive symptoms, which nearly doubled to 22.4% at follow-up. Participants were 2.7 times more likely of reporting depressive symptoms after cancer diagnosis compared with pre-cancer diagnosis (95%CI: 2.10-3.48). Race, ethnicity, rurality, marital status, and social interference were significantly associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms after cancer diagnosis than before their cancer diagnosis (p < 0.05). In summary, depressive symptoms increased following a cancer diagnosis. Our results suggest potential avenues for intervention that could lead to reduced depressive symptoms among older female cancer survivors.

Do older patients with colorectal cancer experience more deterioration in health-related quality of life than younger patients during the first year of palliative chemotherapy? A prospective real-world observational study

INTRODUCTION

The primary aim was to evaluate changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a real-life population among younger (< 70 years) and older patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) during the first year of palliative chemotherapy. The secondary aims were to assess the impact of chemo-break on HRQoL and to report overall survival (OS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with newly diagnosed mCRC, ≥ 18 years, and scheduled for first line palliative chemotherapy were included in this multicentre longitudinal observational study. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (0-100) was filled in at baseline and every second month. Changes or differences in QoL scores of >20, 10-20, and 5-10 points were considered to be of large, moderate, and small clinical magnitude, respectively. Comparing means of different QoL scores between groups or over time, a threshold of 5-10 was considered the minimally important difference (MID). Treatments, patient characteristics, and tumour characteristics were prospectively registered.

RESULTS

A total of 214 patients were included, and 146 were alive after one year. Four months after start of treatment, large deteriorations in fatigue and physical functioning were reported by 40% and 25% of the patients, respectively. Changes in global QoL, physical functioning, role functioning, fatigue, pain, and nausea/vomiting were not significantly different between the age groups and reached baseline levels after one year. Patients on chemo-break reported significant improvements in several HRQoL domains. Median OS was 17.5 months [95% confidence interval 14.4-20.5] with no difference between younger and older patients.

DISCUSSION

Older patients did not experience more deterioration in HRQoL than younger patients during the first year of palliative chemotherapy. Measures to mitigate the deteriorations in fatigue and physical functioning observed during the first months of palliative treatment are warranted.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02395224, March 23, 2015, retrospectively registered.

Community-Based Multidimensional Cancer Rehabilitation in Norway: A Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Cancer survival is often accompanied by late effects that can be mitigated by tailored rehabilitation. In Norway, this has traditionally been offered as residential programs, whereas community-based cancer rehabilitation programs are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed community-based multidimensional cancer rehabilitation program in Norway.

METHODS

A feasibility study with a mixed methods explanatory sequential design was implemented. The intervention was a 12-week group-based rehabilitation program comprising 5 components: goal setting, physical exercise, psychoeducation, individual follow-up consultations, and peer support. Feasibility was assessed through recruitment, retention, and intervention delivery. Acceptability was assessed through intervention adherence and participant evaluation. Qualitative data were generated from focus group interviews. Statistical analyses were descriptive, and qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed using framework analyses.

RESULTS

Sixty participants started, and 55 completed the 12-week rehabilitation program. The majority were female (80%), and the mean age was 56 years. The largest diagnostic group was breast cancer (42%). Retention was high (92%), as were adherence rates for all intervention components. The exercise component was rated the most beneficial, followed by individual consultations and peer support. Qualitative findings contributed to explaining the high adherence and positive evaluation.

CONCLUSION

High retention, strong adherence, and positive evaluation imply that the community-based program was feasible and acceptable to cancer survivors.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

The results will aid intervention refinement and contribute to a future randomized controlled trial to examine its effectiveness. If successful, the rehabilitation program could be implemented in the Norwegian Cancer Pathway "Home."

Cancer survivors 75 years and older: physical, emotional and practical needs

OBJECTIVES

To describe physical, emotional and practical concerns and access to help of Canadian cancer survivors aged 75+ years following treatment.

METHODS

A survey was designed to identify concerns and access to help across three supportive care domains for cancer survivors 1-3 years post-treatment. Random samples were drawn from 10 provincial cancer registries. Survey packages were mailed to 40 790 survivors with option to reply by mail or online in French or English. Descriptive analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

In total, 3274 (25%) survivors aged 75+ years responded to the survey. Fifty-five per cent were men, 72% had not experienced metastatic spread and 75% reported comorbid conditions. Eighty-one per cent reported experiencing at least one physical concern, 63% experienced at least one emotional concern and 30% experienced at least one practical concern. The most commonly reported concerns were for two physical changes (fatigue 62% and bladder/urinary problems 39%) and one emotional change (anxiety/fear of recurrence 53%). More than 50% did not receive assistance for 15 concerns across the three domains. The most frequently cited reason for not seeking help for a concern was that they were told it was normal and they did not think anything could be done. Unmet needs existed for all physical, emotional and practical changes ranging from 41% to 88% of respondents.

CONCLUSIONS

Many older adults are at risk for experiencing physical, emotional and practical concerns following cancer treatment yet are not obtaining help. Action is needed for early identification of these individuals to mitigate the impact of unmet needs for older cancer survivors.

Fatigue Prevalence Among Palliative Care Cancer Patients in Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: The aims of the current study are to assess the prevalence of cancer-related fatigue, to examine the difference in cancer-related fatigue severity in relation to patients' characteristics (age, gender, type of cancer, and palliative performance status), and to explore the correlation between cancer-related fatigue and pain, dyspnea, insomnia, and depression among palliative care patients. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive observational study conducted at Comprehensive Cancer Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study included cancer patients who received palliative care services from January 2016 to December 2021. Clinical data of study participants were retrospectively collected from Palliative Care department patient registry. Symptoms were assessed and scored using Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software. Results: A total of 2616 patients were included in the study, 52.3% were females and 47.7% were males. The median age of study participants was 56 years (range: 2-101 years). Among all study population, the highest reported cancer type was gastrointestinal malignancy (33.5%), while the least was unknown primary malignancy (1.4%). With regards to Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale, pain (86.4%) and fatigue (83%) were the highest reported symptom in comparison to constipation (17.3%) and insomnia (7.1%). Conclusion: Cancer-related fatigue is a prevalent and concerning issue among palliative care patients. It is essential that healthcare providers recognize the prevalence of fatigue among patients with life-limiting illnesses, assess patients for fatigue routinely, incorporate strategies for managing fatigue, work closely with affected individuals and their families in order to guide the establishment of a personalized care plan that addresses the patient's unique needs and preferences.

Social Determinants of Health and Symptom Burden During Cancer Treatment

BACKGROUND

Cancer survivors (defined as individuals from diagnosis to the end of life) in treatment experience multiple physical and psychological symptoms (e.g., fatigue, pain, depression, anxiety, disturbed sleep) that influence their well-being and treatment outcomes. Underrepresented cancer survivors may disproportionately experience greater symptom burden (number of symptoms, symptom severity, depression, anxiety).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to examine the relationships of social determinants of health, including age, ethnicity, education, income and whether income meets the survivor's needs, neighborhood (rural vs. urban), access to healthcare (e.g., insurance), and social isolation, with symptom burden in cancer survivors.

METHODS

This secondary analysis included baseline data from 400 cancer survivors of solid tumor cancers undergoing chemotherapy or targeted therapy who participated in a larger randomized trial of symptom management interventions. Symptom burden was measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale for depression and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scores for anxiety and social isolation, summed severity index of 16 symptoms from the General Symptom Distress Scale, and the total number of symptoms. Self-reported comorbid conditions were measured using the Bayliss tool. General linear models were used to relate symptom measures (one at a time) to age, number of comorbid conditions, level of education, marital status, income meeting needs, and size of metropolitan neighborhood. Additional covariates included site of cancer, its treatment, and whether the cancer was metastatic.

RESULTS

Non-Hispanic White survivors ( n = 191) were older and had more comorbid conditions, a higher proportion of metastatic cancers, and higher levels of education and income compared with Hispanic survivors ( n = 168) and non-Hispanic survivors of other races ( n = 41). Compared with the other two groups, Hispanic survivors had the lowest rate of health insurance availability, and non-Hispanic survivors of other races had the lowest social isolation. Age, number of comorbid conditions, and social isolation were significantly associated with number of symptoms, symptom severity, and depression. Age and social isolation were associated with anxiety. In addition, the symptom severity of non-Hispanic White survivors was lower than that of Hispanic survivors and non-Hispanic survivors of other races.

DISCUSSION

These findings highlight the health disparities in symptom burden experienced among cancer survivors when considering their social determinants of health. Assessing these may help clinicians address health disparities in cancer care.

Education Moderates the Association between Depressive Symptoms and Self-Rated Health among Older Adults with Cancer

This study examined the association between depressive symptoms and self-rated health (SRH) and whether and how such association varies by education among older adults with cancer. Data came from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. A total of 2,470 participants aged 65 or older who had been diagnosed with cancer by a doctor or other health professional were included in this study. Ordinal logistic regression was used to examine the association between depressive symptoms and SRH and whether and how such association varies by education among older adults with cancer. More depressive symptoms were associated with worse SRH. Such association became stronger with higher education among older adults with cancer. Findings confirm the associations between depressive symptoms and SRH among older adults with cancer. The differential impact of education on SRH and on the association between depressive symptoms and SRH highlights the importance of considering patients' educational attainment in a more comprehensive way when working with older adults with cancer. When conducting distress screening among cancer survivors, oncology social workers should be aware of the complex relationship between education and depression in relation to cancer survivors' SRH.

Age as a moderator for the association between depression and self-rated health among cancer survivors: a U.S. based population study

BACKGROUND

Self-rated health (SRH) is a salient outcome for cancer survivors. Although depression is a well-studied correlate with SRH, few studies have focused on the role of cancer survivors' age on the association between depression and SRH. This study evaluates demographic and psychosocial factors associated with cancer survivors' SRH. We also assess the moderating role of age to the association between depression and SRH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This paper analyzed 2,470 U.S. cancer survivors from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. Two ordered logistic regression models with complex survey weights were used for analyses. Missing data was addressed using multiple imputations by chained equations.

RESULTS

Being female, higher education and higher income were positively associated with better SRH. While the relationship between higher education and higher income was consistent with previous findings, the positive association between being female and SRH was different from previous studies. Age significantly moderated the association between depression and SRH, evidenced by results of the joint tests of all interaction term coefficients being statistically significant, F(2, 544.6) = 5.13, p < 0.01.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the study highlighted the significance of screening for social determinants of health and health disparity when supporting cancer survivors. Additionally, findings of this study emphasized the significance of adopting an age-specific approach when evaluating and addressing depression across different age groups of cancer survivors.

Cancer-Related Psychological Distress in Lymphoma Survivor: An Italian Cross-Sectional Study

Cancer is becoming a chronic disease, and the number of cancer survivors continues to increase. Lymphoma survivors are also increasing in numbers, and anxiety and depression are among the consequences they face. This study aimed to explore psychological distress in a sample of 212 lymphoma survivors. Information through a socio-demographic form and the compilation of questionnaires to assess anxiety, depression, quality of life, and the impact of cancer on lymphoma survivors was collected and analyzed. In the sample examined, 17% of lymphoma survivors were anxiety caseness, and 12.3% were depression caseness, and of these, 8% presented with concomitant anxiety depression. This study identified some variables associated with psychological distress in lymphoma survivors: female sex; living as a couple; a diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma; systematic treatment and/or radiotherapy; sleep disorders; no regular physical activity; and present or past use of psychiatric drugs. Our cross-sectional study results suggest that some of the variables investigated may be useful in identifying lymphoma survivors who are more likely to report psychological distress. It is important to monitor psychological distress along the entire trajectory of survivorship in order to identify early the presence of anxiety and depression and to provide timely psychological support.

Challenges of Survivorship for Older Adults Diagnosed with Cancer

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this brief review is to highlight significant recent developments in survivorship research and care of older adults following cancer treatment. The aim is to provide insight into care and support needs of older adults during cancer survivorship as well as directions for future research.

Recent Findings

The numbers of older adult cancer survivors are increasing globally. Increased attention to the interaction between age-related and cancer-related concerns before, during, and after cancer treatment is needed to optimize outcomes and quality of life among older adult survivors. Issues of concern to older survivors, and ones associated with quality of life, include physical and cognitive functioning and emotional well-being. Maintaining activities of daily living, given limitations imposed by cancer treatment and other comorbidities, is of primary importance to older survivors. Evidence concerning the influence of income and rurality, experiences in care coordination and accessing services, and effectiveness of interventions remains scant for older adults during survivorship.

Summary

There is a clear need for further research relating to tailored intervention and health care provider knowledge and education. Emerging issues, such as the use of medical assistance in dying, must be considered in this population.

Correlates of fatigue severity in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia treated with targeted therapy

PURPOSE

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) substantially improve survival for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), but fatigue associated with TKIs can negatively impact patients' quality of life and adherence. This study sought to identify correlates of fatigue (e.g., sociodemographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, health behaviors) among patients with CML taking TKIs who reported moderate to severe fatigue.

METHODS

Adults with CML experiencing at least moderate fatigue were recruited for a pilot trial of a cognitive behavioral intervention to improve fatigue. Data collected pre-intervention were used to explore concurrent correlates of fatigue in univariate and multivariable models.

RESULTS

Participants (N = 44, 48% female) were M = 55.6 years old (SD = 12.6) and had been diagnosed with CML M = 5.2 years prior (SD = 5.3). Participants had been taking their current TKI for M = 2.5 years (SD = 2.7). Most participants (64%) had previously been treated with ≥ 1 other TKI. More than three-quarters of participants (77%) reported severe fatigue. In univariate models, worse fatigue was associated with higher BMI (r = -0.36, p = 0.018), prior treatment with other TKI(s) (r =  - 0.34, p = 0.024), worse sleep disturbance (r =  - 0.51, p < 0.001), and less physical activity (r = 0.31, p = 0.043). In a multivariable model, significant univariate correlates accounted for 39% of the variance in fatigue. Worse fatigue remained significantly correlated with higher BMI (β =  - 0.33, p = 0.009) and more disturbed sleep (β =  - 0.45, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Results may inform future research aiming to identify fatigued patients with CML at risk for experiencing more severe fatigue during TKI therapy. Identifying predictors of fatigue severity could aid clinicians in identifying which patients will benefit from referrals to supportive therapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02592447, October 30, 2015.

Chronic pain severity, impact, and opioid use among patients with cancer: An analysis of biopsychosocial factors using the CHOIR learning health care system

BACKGROUND

Despite the biopsychosocial underpinnings of chronic noncancer pain, relatively little is known about the contribution of psychosocial factors to chronic cancer pain. The authors aimed to characterize associations between biopsychosocial factors and pain and opioid use among individuals with chronic pain and cancer.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional study of 700 patients with chronic pain and cancer seeking treatment at an academic tertiary pain clinic. Patients completed demographic questionnaires and validated psychosocial and pain measures. Multivariable, hierarchical linear and logistic regressions assessed the relative contributions of biopsychosocial factors to the primary dependent variables of pain severity, pain interference, and opioid use.

RESULTS

Participants were 62% female and 66% White with a mean age of 59 ± 15 years, and 55% held a college degree or higher. Older age, African American or "other" race, sleep disturbance, and pain catastrophizing were significantly associated with higher pain severity (F(5,657) = 22.45; P ≤ .001; R² = 0.22). Depression, sleep disturbance, pain catastrophizing, lower emotional support, and higher pain severity were significantly associated with pain interference (F(5,653) = 9.47; P ≤ .001; R² = 0.44). Lastly, a poor cancer prognosis (Exp(B) = 1.62) and sleep disturbance (Exp(B) = 1.02) were associated with taking opioids, whereas identifying as Asian (Exp(B) = 0.48) or Hispanic (Exp(B) = 0.47) was associated with lower odds of using opioids.

CONCLUSIONS

Modifiable psychological factors-specifically sleep disturbance, depression, and pain catastrophizing-were uniquely associated with pain and opioid use in patients with chronic pain and diverse cancer diagnoses. Future behavioral pain interventions that concurrently target sleep may improve pain among patients with cancer.

LAY SUMMARY

Feeling depressed, worrying about pain, and bad sleep are related to higher pain symptoms in individuals with chronic pain and cancer. Specifically, those who struggle to sleep have worse pain and use more opioids. Also, individuals who have a bad prognosis for their cancer are more likely to be using opioid pain medications. Although race and cancer are related to chronic pain in patients, psychological well-being is also strongly related to this same pain.

Cognitive functioning of older adults prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Hematopoietic cell transplantation is increasingly used in older adults with hematological malignancies. Younger adult patients who undergo HCT have shown to commonly present with cognitive impairment and depression prior to transplant; however, little research has been done to understand the cognitive and emotional functioning of older adults undergoing HCT. This study aimed to investigate the rate of cognitive impairment in a retrospective sample of older adult HCT candidates prior to transplant using a comprehensive battery. Ninety-three patients over the age of 60 completed a neuropsychology test battery that assessed standard domains of cognitive and emotional functioning. Impairment was defined as z-scores = < -1.5 on at least two tests or a z score = < -2.0 on at least one test. Results indicated that over 68% of patients were impaired with nearly a third of the sample showing impairment in verbal learning and memory and approximately one fifth showing impairments in aspects of executive function, processing speed, and visual learning. Ten percent of the patients endorsed symptoms indicative of a clinical level of depression. Medical comorbidities nor depression predicted cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that older adults candidates for HCT are at risk for cognitive impairment prior to transplant and thus cognition should be a consideration when developing treatment plans.

Sex hormone levels in females of different ages suffering from depression

Background

There are only a few studies on sex hormones in females of different ages suffering from depression, and their conclusions are not uniform until now. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the severity of depression in females and factors such as sex hormones and differences in sex hormone levels in females of different ages, exploring variations after treatment.

Methods

A total of 169 females with depression were selected and divided into the first-episode (91 cases) and recurrent (78 cases) groups. Then, on the basis of their age, the first-episode patients were divided into the young (48 cases, age < 45 years), perimenopausal (20 cases, 45–55 years), and elderly groups (23 cases, age > 55 years); the patients with recurrent depression were classified into the young (37 cases, age < 45 years), perimenopausal (19 cases, 45–55 years), and elderly groups (22 cases, age > 55 years). The patients were assessed in accordance with the International Classification of Diseases of mental and behavioral disorders. The serum progesterone, prolactin, estradiol, and testosterone levels in the patients were measured, and differences in sex hormone levels of the groups were analyzed.

Results

The estradiol level was negatively correlated with age and the prolactin level was positively correlated with occupation. The severity of depression in females was found to be negatively correlated with age. The serum progesterone and estradiol levels in the young group were significantly higher than those in the elderly group, regardless of the first episode or recurrence. Estradiol levels in the perimenopausal and elderly groups with first-episode depression were significantly higher than those in the same group with recurrent depression. However, there was no significant difference in the serum progesterone, prolactin, estradiol, and testosterone levels in the recurrent group before and after treatment.

Conclusions

Sex hormone levels, especially estradiol, varied among females of different ages suffering from depression. Recurrent depression also has a certain effect on sex hormone levels in females. Not only should the age and relapse be considered when studying the sex hormone levels of females with depression, but also attention should be paid to whether the patients have used antidepressants before their sexual hormonal testing.

Body image, physical activity and psychological health in older female cancer survivors

OBJECTIVES

To determine the association of physical activity and body image with psychological health outcomes and whether body image mediates the association of physical activity with psychological health among older female cancer survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) Life and Longevity after Cancer (LILAC) Study were used. Surveys assessed body image (appearance, attractiveness, scars), moderate-strenuous physical activity (min/week), and psychological health (depression, anxiety, distress). A mediation analysis was conducted to estimate the percentage of the total effect of physical activity on psychological health mediated by body image concerns.

RESULTS

Among 4567 female cancer survivors aged 66-98 years, the average time since cancer diagnosis was 9.2 years. Approximately 50% reported no moderate-strenuous physical activity; 15% reported depressive symptoms, 6% reported anxiety, and 5% reported psychological distress; 3% had concerns with appearance, 20% had concerns with attractiveness, and 21% had concerns with scars. When unadjusted for body image concerns, every 30 min/week increase in physical activity was associated with lower risk of depressive symptoms (RR = 0.93, 95%CI: 0.90-0.96), anxiety (RR = 0.92, 95%CI: 0.87-0.97), and distress (RR = 0.92, 95%CI: 0.87-0.98). Body image concerns with appearance mediated 7%, 8.8%, and 14.5% of the association between physical activity and depressive symptoms, anxiety, and distress, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Older female cancer survivors reported body image concerns, which were associated with both physical activity and psychological health. Our findings suggest that interventions designed to address body image concerns in older female cancer survivors could serve to improve the benefit of physical activity on psychological health.

Risk Factors Linked to Depression After Treatment in Cancer Survivors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Background

While many cancer patients survive long after diagnosis, one is bound to experience long-term and latent side effects as a result of the treatment. This experience results in a poor quality of life, morbidity, and mortality for cancer survivors. Understanding how to manage these side-effects is quite important and a key to cancer survivorship.

Objective

Given the importance of this area, the main objective of this study seeks to understand the risk factor associated with cancer survivorship.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 154 cancer survivors from King Fahad General and Kind Abdul-Aziz hospitals. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing the responses. Descriptive statistics were used in understanding the extent of the risk factors while inferential statistics were used to understand the cross-relationships.

Results

This study included 154 cancer survivors aged 18 and above at King Fahad Hospital and King Abdul-Aziz Hospital in Jeddah, Makkah Region, KSA. Thirty-one (20.1%) of the sample were males and 123 (79.9%) were females. Of all the survivors who screened, 111 (72.9%) symptoms occur before treatment, 116 (75.3%) within the treatment, and 57 (37.09%) after treatment. The relationship between Socioeconomic Status Cross Symptoms categories demonstrated below includes accommodation type, education level, age, gender, and job.

Conclusion

The study concludes that post-cancer treatment symptoms are highly affected by other factors such as social-economic status as well as family support. As a result, the study recommends the establishment of educational materials on post-treatment symptoms, care-plans, and support groups for cancer survivors.

Calidad de Vida: a systematic review of quality of life in Latino cancer survivors in the USA

BACKGROUND

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Hispanics/Latinos. Thus, understanding health-related quality of life (HRQOL) needs among this diverse racial/ethnic group is critical. Using Ferrell's multidimensional framework for measuring QOL, we synthesized evidence on HRQOL needs among Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, for English language articles published between 1995 and January 2020, reporting HRQOL among Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors in the USA.

RESULTS

Of the 648 articles reviewed, 176 met inclusion criteria, with 100 of these studies focusing exclusively on breast cancer patients and no studies examining end-of-life HRQOL issues. Compared with other racial/ethnic groups, Hispanics/Latinos reported lower HRQOL and a higher symptom burden across multiple HRQOL domains. Over 80% of studies examining racial/ethnic differences in psychological well-being (n = 45) reported worse outcomes among Hispanics/Latinos compared with other racial/ethnic groups. Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors were also more likely to report suboptimal physical well-being in 60% of studies assessing racial/ethnic differences (n = 27), and Hispanics/Latinos also reported lower social well-being relative to non-Hispanics/Latinos in 78% of studies reporting these outcomes (n = 32). In contrast, reports of spiritual well-being and spirituality-based coping were higher among Hispanics/Latinos cancer survivors in 50% of studies examining racial/ethnic differences (n = 15).

DISCUSSION

Findings from this review point to the need for more systematic and tailored interventions to address HRQOL needs among this growing cancer survivor population. Future HRQOL research on Hispanics/Latinos should evaluate variations in HRQOL needs across cancer types and Hispanic/Latino subgroups and assess HRQOL needs during metastatic and end-of-life disease phases.

Patients' experiences of a mindfulness intervention for adults with advanced cancer: a qualitative analysis

PURPOSE

People with advanced cancer often experience significant emotional turmoil that accompanies their diagnosis and cancer-related treatments. Therefore, psychological interventions become relevant to address these impacts; however, there is a lack of research into the psychological support needs of those with advanced cancer (those not yet in palliative or end-of-life stages). In this context, we developed a mindfulness-based intervention, Coping with Cancer Mindfully (CCM), to provide psychological and emotional support to adults with advanced cancer. This article reports on qualitative interviews from a mixed method study of the CCM intervention exploring its utility and the extent it provides psychological support to this population in a pre-post-intervention design.

METHODS

Adults with advanced cancer (stage III or IV) were recruited via cancer-related services in Christchurch, New Zealand. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

Twenty participants were interviewed. Thematic analysis showed that at baseline, participants were experiencing distress but few had been offered psychological support; they reported feeling vulnerable and battling their cancers, and were seeking help. Post-intervention interviews reported that most participants' perspectives had shifted, from a state of vulnerability to one of self-encouragement, increased optimism, and taking new actions regarding their situations. The CCM intervention was identified as a readily available and positive tool of support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that those with advanced cancer should be offered options of psychological support at any stage post-diagnosis. At such an intense period in their lives, people with advanced cancer are likely to benefit from tailored psychological interventions. The CCM intervention with its focus on acceptance, meaning in life, and mindful coping has been shown to be acceptable to participants and as a supportive tool.

Differences in coping strategies among young adults and the elderly with cancer

BACKGROUND

Coping with cancer and the oncologist-patient relationship can vary depending on the patient's age. Our aim is to examine and compare young and elderly adults with non-metastatic, resected cancer.

METHODS

Two groups of patients were selected, young (< 40 years) and elderly (> 70) with a diagnosis of non-metastatic, resected cancer requiring adjuvant chemotherapy from a pre-exiting, national database (NEOCOPING Study). Epidemiological variables were collected and subjects' emotional responses, perceptions of the physician-patient relationship, support network, fears, and regret about the decision to receive chemotherapy were assessed with questionnaires validated in previous studies: Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer, Brief Summary Inventory (18 items), European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30, Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire-Physician's version, Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire-Patient's version, and Informed Risk (physician and patient versions).

RESULTS

Data from 46 young and 46 elderly participants were collected. The most common neoplasms in both groups were breast (50%) and colorectal (22%). The younger adults had a higher level of education and were actively employed (72% vs. 7%). The leading coping strategy in the younger cohort was hope, and resignation among the elderly. Young adults sought more social support and the impact of diagnosis was more negative for them than for older individuals. No significant differences were detected in quality of life; both age groups demanded more time at their first visit with the doctor, while the older group exhibited greater satisfaction with shared decision-making. At the end of adjuvant chemotherapy, neither age group regretted their decision to receive said treatment.

CONCLUSION

Higher levels of education, greater demands of the labour market, and the advent of the age of information have entailed drastic changes in the physician-patient relationship paradigm. This is especially true in the younger cancer patient population, who require more information and active participation in decision-making, can display more anxiety about their diagnosis, but also greater capacity to fight.

Preventive care service use among cancer survivors with serious psychological distress: An analysis of the medical expenditure panel survey data

Serious psychological distress (SPD) can adversely impact health and quality of life after cancer. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between SPD and the receipt of preventive care services and cancer screening among survivors and adults without a cancer history. A total of 12,564 cancer survivors and 160,023 adults without a cancer history as comparison group were identified from the population-based Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (2008-2015). SPD was assessed using the 6-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. We examined use of preventive care and cancer screening services in cancer survivors and comparison adults with/without SPD. Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted for each outcome: preventive service (i.e. blood pressure, cholesterol, influenza vaccination, routine and dental check-up) or cancer screening (i.e. mammography, Papanicolau test, colorectal cancer screening) adjusting for demographic, comorbidity, usual source of care covariates. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Prevalence of SPD was 9.8% in cancer survivors compared to 4.6% in comparison adults. Survivors with SPD were more frequent utilizers of medical care, reporting 10 or more visits to the doctor's office in the past 12 months (29.3% vs. 14.1% without SPD). Having SPD was associated with lower odds of being up-to-date with preventive service use and cancer screening among age- and gender-eligible individuals. The magnitude of the effect was greater in adults' age ≥65 years. Better coordination of care and patient-physician discussions are likely needed to improve delivery of recommended preventive services for persons with SPD.

A Practical Guide to Geriatric Syndromes in Older Adults With Cancer: A Focus on Falls, Cognition, Polypharmacy, and Depression

Geriatric syndromes are multifactorial conditions that are prevalent in older adults. Geriatric syndromes are believed to develop when an individual experiences accumulated impairments in multiple systems that compromise their compensatory ability. In older adults with cancer, the presence of a geriatric syndrome is common and may increase the complexity of cancer treatment. In addition, the physiologic stress of cancer and cancer treatment may precipitate or exacerbate geriatric syndromes. Common geriatric syndromes include falls, cognitive syndromes and delirium, depression, and polypharmacy. In the oncology setting, the presence of geriatric syndromes is relevant; falls and cognitive problems have been shown to be predictive of chemotherapy toxicity and overall survival. Polypharmacy and depression are more common in older adults with cancer compared with the general geriatric population. Multiple screening tools exist to identify falls, cognitive problems, polypharmacy, and depression in older adults and can be applied to the oncology setting to identify patients at risk. When recognized, several interventions exist that could be considered for this vulnerable population. We review the available evidence of four geriatric syndromes in the oncology setting, including clinical implications, validated screening tools, potential supportive care, and therapeutic interventions.

Reasons for low uptake of a psychological intervention offered to cancer survivors with elevated depressive symptoms

Objective

In line with screening guidelines, cancer survivors were consecutively screened on depressive symptoms (as part of standard care), with those reporting elevated levels of symptoms offered psychological care as part of a trial. Because of the low uptake, no conclusions could be drawn about the interventions' efficacy. Given the trial set‐up (following screening guidelines and strict methodological quality criteria), we believe that this observational study reporting the flow of participation, reasons for and characteristics associated with nonparticipation, adds to the debate about the feasibility and efficiency of screening guidelines.

Methods

Two thousand six hundred eight medium‐ to long‐term cancer survivors were consecutively screened on depressive symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9). Those with moderate depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9 ≥ 10) were contacted and informed about the trial. Patient flow and reasons for nonparticipation were carefully monitored.

Results

One thousand thirty seven survivors (74.3%) returned the questionnaire, with 147 (7.6%) reporting moderate depressive symptoms. Of this group, 49 survivors (33.3%) were ineligible, including 26 survivors (17.7%) already receiving treatment and another 44 survivors (30.0%) reporting no need for treatment. Only 25 survivors (1.0%) participated in the trial.

Conclusion

Of the approached survivors for screening, only 1% was eligible and interested in receiving psychological care as part of our trial. Four reasons for nonparticipation were: nonresponse to screening, low levels of depressive symptoms, no need, or already receiving care. Our findings question whether to spend the limited resources in psycho‐oncological care on following screening guidelines and the efficiency of using consecutive screening for trial recruitment in cancer survivors.

A Systematic Review: Mindfulness Intervention for Cancer-Related Pain

Moderate-to-severe pain is a common problem experienced by patients with cancer. Although analgesic drugs are effective, adverse side effects are common and some analgesic drugs are addictive. Nonpharmacological treatment may be a way to treat cancer pain without causing negative side effects. Mindfulness is used as an effective nonpharmacological treatment to improve quality of life (QoL) and to address psychological problems including distress, anxiety, stress, and depression. However, the effect of mindfulness on pain severity has not been sufficiently investigated. Therefore, a systematic review was undertaken to describe the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions for pain and its underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms. The search was conducted in PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and CINAHL and included only empirical studies published from 2008 to 2017. Search terms included mindfulness, mindfulness-based intervention, meditation, cancer, pain, and cancer-related pain. Six studies met the search criteria. These studies tested several types of intervention including mindfulness-based stress reduction, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, meditation with massage, and mindful awareness practices. Study outcomes include improved pain severity, anxiety, stress, depression, and QoL. However, most studies reviewed were conducted in the United States and Denmark. Further research is needed to test culturally appropriate mindfulness interventions to reduce pain.

Testing a biobehavioral model of fatigue before adjuvant therapy in women with breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling side effects of cancer and its treatment. Although research typically has focused on fatigue that occurs during and after treatment, patients may experience fatigue even before treatment onset. The current study was designed to identify biobehavioral risk factors associated with fatigue before adjuvant therapy in women with early-stage breast cancer.

METHODS

Patients with stage 0 to stage IIIA breast cancer (270 women) were recruited before the onset of adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or endocrine therapy. Host factors that may influence fatigue were identified from an empirically based, biobehavioral model and assessed using self-report questionnaires, medical record review, and blood collection (for genetic data). Fatigue was assessed by questionnaire. Linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between host factors and dimensions of fatigue, with general fatigue as the primary dimension of interest.

RESULTS

Fatigue was elevated at the pretreatment assessment compared with published controls. Bivariate analyses identified demographic, cancer-related, and biobehavioral correlates of fatigue. In the multivariable model, predictors of general fatigue included younger age, lower educational level, lower cancer stage, and history of childhood maltreatment (all P values <.05), with the full model accounting for approximately 18.4% of the variance in fatigue. Secondary analyses identified common and specific predictors of emotional, mental, and physical dimensions of fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

Among women who have not yet initiated treatment of breast cancer, demographic and psychosocial factors are associated with elevated fatigue and could be used to identify at-risk patients for early intervention.

Risk of malnutrition and emotional distress as factors affecting health-related quality of life in patients with resected cancer

INTRODUCTION

This study analyzes the prevalence of malnutrition, depression, anxiety, and somatization and which factor has the biggest effect on quality of life (QoL) in individuals with resected cancer.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted among 747 participants. Participants completed the EORTC-QLQ30, MST, and BSI-18 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Prevalence for risk of malnutrition, depression, anxiety, and somatization were 36.4%, 35.5%, 35.2%, and 48.8%, respectively. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that malnutrition risk, somatization, depression, and anxiety accounted for 50.8% of the variance in functional scale, 45.3% in symptom scale, and 52.2% in global health. Malnutrition, somatization, depression, and anxiety displayed high explanatory power on all health-related QoL (HRQoL) scales.

CONCLUSION

The risk of malnutrition and psychological symptoms is strongly associated with HRQoL in cancer patients; thus, medical oncologists should develop effective interventions that contribute to lowering the risk of malnutrition and psychological distress, thereby improving subjects' HRQoL before initiating adjuvant chemotherapy.

Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors: Impact of Gender and Latino Culture

Ethnic and sex variations in depressive symptoms and quality of life (QOL) among adolescent and young adult (AYA) childhood cancer survivors were explored among a sample of Latino and non-Latino childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) (n = 194) treated at hospitals in Los Angeles County. Latinos scored higher in depressive symptoms and lower in QOL when compared with non-Latinos. Males had higher depressive symptoms. Among Latinos, higher levels of acculturation were associated with depression and a poorer QOL, and we found that more acculturated Latino males were more likely to have meaningful levels of depression than less acculturated males or females. Interventions addressing depressive symptoms may be most needed for Hispanic male CCSs.

Evaluation of fatigue in patients with pancreatic cancer receiving chemotherapy treatment: a cross-sectional observational study

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most common symptoms experienced by cancer patients (CPs) and negatively affects quality of life. Although CRF is frequently experienced, it is often underreported, underdiagnosed and undertreated. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the level of fatigue in patients with pancreatic cancer undergoing chemotherapy and to analyse its correlation with patients' demographic and clinical variables.

METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was implemented in the Oncology Day Hospital of a Northern Italian hospital. A sample of 48 patients receiving chemotherapy were evaluated through the Brief Fatigue Inventory Italian version (BFI-I) between 1 May and 12 October 2016. Data were statistically analysed.

RESULTS

Most of our patients (94%) experienced fatigue. Women as well as patients with an age ≥65 years reported more fatigue. Anemia, pain and a weight loss of over 16 kg in the last 6 months were significantly related to the perception of fatigue. Regarding life habits, smoking was related to high global score of BFI-I.

CONCLUSIONS

In accordance with literature, our study suggests that fatigue is a frequent symptom influenced by many constitutional, clinical and environmental factors. Our results highlight the need for an early and regular evaluation of fatigue among cancer patients, in order to implement all those pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions with proven efficacy in attenuating this symptom.