Systematic review of self-reported cognitive function in cancer patients following chemotherapy treatment

Feasibility, reliability and validity of smartphone administered cognitive ecological momentary assessments in breast cancer survivors

Objective

Breast cancer and its treatment are associated with cancer-related cognitive impairments (CRCI). Cognitive ecological momentary assessments (EMA) allow for the assessment of individual subjective and objective cognitive functioning in real world environments and can be easily administered via smartphones. The objective of this study was to establish the feasibility, reliability, and validity of a cognitive EMA platform, NeuroUX, for assessing CRCI in breast cancer survivors.

Methods

Using a prospective design, clinical cognitive assessments (neuropsychological testing; patient reported outcomes) were collected at baseline, followed by an 8-week EMA smartphone protocol assessing self-reported cognitive concerns and objective cognitive performance via mobile cognitive tests once per day, every other day. Satisfaction and feedback questions were included in follow-up data collection. Feasibility data were analyzed using descriptive methods. Test-retest reliability was examined using intraclass correlation coefficients for each cognitive EMA (tests and self-report questions), and Pearson's correlation was used to evaluate convergent validity between cognitive EMAs and baseline clinical cognitive variables.

Results

105 breast cancer survivors completed the EMA protocol with high adherence (87.3%) and high satisfaction (mean 87%). Intraclass correlation coefficients for all cognitive EMAs were strong (>0.73) and correlational findings indicated moderately strong convergent validity (|0.23| < r < |0.61|).

Conclusion

Fully remote, self-administered cognitive testing for 8-weeks on smartphones was feasible in breast cancer survivors who completed adjuvant treatment and the specific cognitive EMAs (cognitive EMA tests and self-report questions) administered demonstrate strong reliability and validity for CRCI.

Cardiac arrest survivors' self-reported cognitive function, and its association with self-reported health status, psychological distress, and life satisfaction-a Swedish nationwide registry study

AIM

Self-reported cognitive function has been described as an important complement to performance-based measurements but has seldom been investigated in cardiac arrest (CA) survivors. Therefore, the aim was to describe self-reported cognitive function and its association with health status, psychological distress, and life satisfaction.

METHODS

This study utilised data from the Swedish Register of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (2018-2021), registered 3-6 months post-CA. Cognitive function was assessed by a single question: "How do you experience your memory, concentration, and/or planning abilities today compared to before the cardiac arrest?". Health status was measured using the EQ VAS, psychological distress with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and overall life satisfaction with the Life Satisfaction checklist. Data were analysed using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among 4026 identified survivors, 1254 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 65.9 years (SD = 13.4) and 31.7% were female. Self-reported cognitive function among survivors was reported as: 'Much worse' by 3.1%, 'Worse' by 23.8%, 'Unchanged' by 68.3%, 'Better' by 3.3%, and 'Much better' by 1.5%. Declined cognitive function was associated with lower health status (OR = 2.76, 95% CI = 2.09-3.64), symptoms of anxiety (OR = 3.84, 95% CI = 2.80-5.24) and depression (OR = 4.52, 95% CI = 3.22-6.32), and being dissatisfied with overall life (OR = 2.74, 95% CI = 2.11-3.54). These associations remained significant after age, sex, place of CA, aetiology, initial rhythm, initial witnessed status, and cerebral performance were controlled.

CONCLUSIONS

Survivors experiencing declined cognitive function post-CA are at a higher risk of poorer health status, increased psychological distress, and reduced life satisfaction, and these risks should be acknowledged by healthcare professionals.

Long-Term Cognitive Outcomes in Adult Patients Receiving Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapies

BACKGROUND

CAR T-cell therapy (CAR-T) is leading to durable responses in patients with cancer but there is concern that cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity may impact survivors' cognitive function. We assessed long-term cognitive function in CAR-T recipients and examine factors associated with change in cognition over time.

METHODS

We assessed perceived cognition (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognition) and neurocognitive performance (standardized neuropsychological battery) in adult patients prior to receiving CAR-T and at 6 month follow-up. We examined changes in cognitive outcomes using paired T-tests. We used univariate and multivariate linear regression models to explore whether patient-, disease-, or CAR-T specific factors were associated with change in cognition over time.

RESULTS

We included 106 participants (mean age = 62.7 years, 60.4% male, 56.6% diagnosed with non-Hodgkin´s lymphoma), of whom 70 reported perceived cognition data and 26 underwent neurocognitive performance assessments at both timepoints. There were no changes in perceived cognition (P = .560), overall neurocognitive performance (P = .924), or neurocognitive domains (P´s > .05) from baseline to 6 months post CAR-T. At 6 months, 32.9% reported improved, 47.1% stable, and 20.0% declined perceived cognition relative to baseline. In unadjusted analyses, progressive disease (β = -8.86, P = .012), baseline elevated C-reactive protein (β = -5.60, P = .076) and baseline neurologic comorbidity (β = -11.4, P = .052) were numerically associated with worse perceived cognition over time. In multivariate analyses, only progressive disease was statistically significantly associated with worse perceived cognition (β = -7.32, P = .032) over time.

CONCLUSIONS

We found stable cognition among CAR-T recipients and identified an association of therapy response with change in perceived cognition over time.

Quantifying chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in gastrointestinal cancer patients: A scoping review of methodological concerns in the literature

PURPOSE

Chemotherapy is one of the common treatments in cancer management. However, chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI) is one notable side effect that can greatly impact a patient's quality of life. Literature on CICI in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are few and inconsistent. This review aims to identify the methodological differences in such studies.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in four electronic databases. All peer-reviewed primary literature published in English that evaluated cognitive-related functioning scores related to chemotherapy in GI cancer patients were included. Information about each study such as CICI findings, study limitations, methodology, and sample characteristics was extracted and synthesized.

RESULTS

A total of 19 studies were included. Evidence of CICI was found in 50.0% (8 of 16) and 62.5% (5 of 8) studies that used objective and subjective measures, respectively. Methodological differences such as groups used for comparison, instruments used, and assessment from the length of time since chemotherapy were highlighted between studies that did and did not find evidence of CICI.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that the mixed findings can be attributed to the heterogeneous methodologies adopted in the evaluation of CICI in this field.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Further studies are necessary to establish the presence and chronicity of CICI, and in which groups of patients to facilitate targeted interventions and treatments.

Advances in risk prediction models for cancer-related cognitive impairment

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) has emerged as a significant long-term complication in cancer survivors, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted therapies. Despite advances in treatment, CRCI affects patients' quality of life, impacting their daily functioning, work capacity, and psychological well-being. In recent years, research has focused on identifying predictive factors for CRCI and developing risk prediction models to facilitate early intervention. This review summarizes the latest progress in CRCI risk prediction models, including traditional statistical approaches such as logistic regression and advanced machine learning techniques. While machine learning models demonstrate superior predictive performance, limitations such as data availability and model interpretability remain. Additionally, the review highlights key risk factors-such as age, cancer type, and treatment modalities-and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of various predictive models in terms of accuracy, generalizability, and clinical applicability. Finally, this paper discusses the challenges in validating these models across diverse populations and the need for further research to enhance model reliability and personalization of interventions.

The association of fatigue and cognitive complaints with work-related outcomes and cancer-related anxiety among employees 2-10 years after cancer diagnosis

This study investigated the association of fatigue and cognitive complaints among employees post-cancer diagnosis, with work-related outcomes, and moderation by cancer-related anxiety. A survey was carried out among workers 2-10 years after cancer diagnosis. Employees without cancer recurrence or metastases were selected (N = 566). Self-reported fatigue and cognitive complaints were classified into three groups. ANOVA's and regression analyses were used, controlling for age. Group 1 (cognitive complaints, n = 25, 4.4%), group 2 (fatigue, n = 205, 36.2%), and group 3 (cognitive complaints and fatigue, n = 211, 37.3%) were associated with higher burnout complaints and lower work engagement, and group 2 and 3 with lower work ability. Cancer-related anxiety positively moderated the association of group 3 with higher burnout complaints. Employees with both fatigue and cognitive complaints report less favorable work functioning. Cancer-related anxiety needs attention in the context of burnout complaints.

Germain D, Dorsey SG. The National Cancer Institute clinical trials planning meeting to address gaps in observational and intervention trials for cancer-related cognitive impairment

Cancer-related cognitive impairment is a broad term encompassing subtle cognitive problems to more severe impairment. The severity of this impairment is influenced by host, disease, and treatment factors, and the impairment affects patients before, during, and following cancer treatment. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Symptom Management and Health-Related Quality of Life Steering Committee (SxQoL SC) convened a clinical trial planning meeting to review the state of the science on cancer-related cognitive impairment and develop phase II/III intervention trials aimed at improving cognitive function in cancer survivors with non-central nervous system disease and longitudinal studies to understand the trajectory of cognitive impairment and contributing factors. Participants included experts in the field of cancer-related cognitive impairment, members of the SxQoL SC, patient advocates, representatives from all 7 NCI Community Oncology Research Program research bases, and the NCI. Presentations focused on the following topics: measurement, lessons learned from pediatric and geriatric oncology, biomarker and mechanism endpoints, longitudinal study designs, and pharmacological and behavioral intervention trials. Panel discussions provided guidance on priority cognitive assessments, considerations for remote assessments, inclusion of relevant biomarkers, and strategies for ensuring broad inclusion criteria. Three clinical trial planning meeting working groups (longitudinal studies as well as pharmacological and behavioral intervention trials) convened for 1 year to discuss and report on top priorities and to design studies. The meeting experts concluded that sufficient data exist to advance phase II/III trials using selected pharmacological and behavioral interventions for the treatment of cancer-related cognitive impairment in the non-central nervous system setting, with recommendations included herein.

Characterizing cancer-related cognitive impairments and impact on quality of life in women with metastatic breast cancer

PURPOSE

Little is known about cancer-related cognitive impairments (CRCI) in women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The purpose of this study is to (1) comprehensively describe CRCI and any associated psychosocial and behavioral symptoms, (2) determine observable sociodemographic and clinical risk factors for CRCI, and (3) explore cognitive and psychosocial predictors of quality of life and social functioning in women living with MBC.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, women with MBC completed assessments (objective and subjective measures of CRCI including 3 open-ended questions, measures of psychosocial and behavioral factors, and assessments of quality of life and social function), and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, qualitative content analysis, correlation analyses, t tests, analysis of variance, and linear regression models.

RESULTS

Data from 52 women were analyzed. 69.2% of the sample reported clinically significant CRCI and 46% of the sample scored < 1 standard deviation below the standardized mean on one or more cognitive tests. Those with triple-negative MBC (compared to HER2+), recurrent MBC (compared to de novo), and no history of chemotherapy had worse subjective CRCI, and those without history of surgery and older age had worse objective CRCI. Subjective CRCI, but not objective CRCI, was significantly associated with quality of life and social functioning.

CONCLUSION

Subjective and objective CRCI are likely a common problem for those with MBC. Subjective CRCI is associated with poorer quality of life and lower social functioning. Healthcare providers should acknowledge cognitive symptoms, continually assess cognitive function, and address associated unmet needs across the MBC trajectory.

Improve the management of cancer-related cognitive impairment in clinical settings: a European Delphi study

PURPOSE

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is under-addressed by healthcare professionals owing to a lack of clinical management guidelines. This European Delphi study proposes recommendations to healthcare professionals for the management of CRCI in patients with non-central nervous system (non-CNS) cancers.

METHODS

Twenty-two recommendations were developed based on a literature review and authors' clinical experience, split into three categories: screening, cognitive assessment, intervention. The survey included European professionals, experts in CRCI. The Delphi method was used: experts rated the clinical relevancy of recommendations on a 9-point Likert scale in three rounds. A recommendation was accepted if all votes were between 7 and 9. Recommendations not accepted in round 1 and round 2 were deleted, or modified and rated in round 3.

RESULTS

Eighteen professionals (psychologists, physicians, researchers) voted and accepted 15 recommendations. Experts recommended the systematic screening of CRCI, followed by a short objective cognitive assessment, if complaints screened. A comprehensive evaluation is recommended if CRCI persists 6 months post-treatment. Cognitive rehabilitation, physical activity, meditative-movement therapy, and multimodal intervention should be offered. Recommendations about frequency and duration of interventions, the professional to administer cognitive rehabilitation and the use of meditation and cognitive training without psychoeducation were not accepted.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey provides 15 recommendations to assist healthcare professionals in detecting, assessing and offering interventions for CRCI.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

These recommendations should be included in supportive care to help healthcare professionals to detect CRCI and propose the best available intervention for patients with cognitive complaints. Developing CRCI management in clinical settings would improve patients' quality of life.

"It Was a Downward Spiral": A Qualitative Study of Young Adult Cancer Survivors' Experiences with Cognitive and Mental Health

Background/Objectives: Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is common and distressing for young adult (YA) cancer survivors; however, subjective CRCI is often attributed to psychological distress rather than true cognitive change. Thus, we aimed to generate hypotheses regarding potential common biobehavioral mechanisms of CRCI and psychological distress. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with YA cancer survivors in peak years for frontal neurocognitive development (ages 18-30), and we asked them to describe their experiences with cognitive and mental health changes during and after treatment for their cancer. An applied thematic analysis was used to identify themes. Results: The participants were 20 YA cancer survivors who were, on average, 23 years old at diagnosis and 26 years old when interviewed. Five themes emerged regarding the connection between cognitive and mental health: depressed mood after diagnosis that decreased mental engagement, cancer-related anxiety consumed cognitive resources during treatment, a bidirectional "downward spiral" during treatment, frustration with forgetfulness, and self-criticism about long-term cognitive limitations. Additionally, participants described receiving minimal information about evidence-based strategies for managing CRCI. Conclusions: Future research is needed to examine common neurological mechanisms among symptoms of depression, anxiety, and CRCI and to address gaps in survivorship care for YA survivors with CRCI. Cognitive-behavioral interventions may address both cognitive and mental health.

Moderators of exercise effects on self-reported cognitive functioning in cancer survivors: an individual participant data meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This individual participant data meta-analysis (IPD-MA) assesses exercise effects on self-reported cognitive functioning (CF) and investigates whether effects differ by patient-, intervention-, and exercise-related characteristics.

METHODS

IPD from 16 exercise RCTs, including 1987 patients across multiple types of non-metastatic cancer, was pooled. A one-stage IPD-MA using linear mixed-effect models was performed to assess exercise effects on self-reported CF (z-score) and to identify whether the effect was moderated by sociodemographic, clinical, intervention- and exercise-related characteristics, or fatigue, depression, anxiety, and self-reported CF levels at start of the intervention (i.e., baseline). Models were adjusted for baseline CF and included a random intercept at study level to account for clustering of patients within studies. A sensitivity analysis was performed in patients who reported cognitive problems at baseline.

RESULTS

Minimal significant beneficial exercise effects on self-reported CF (β=-0.09 [-0.16; -0.02]) were observed, with slightly larger effects when the intervention was delivered post-treatment (n=745, β=-0.13 [-0.24; -0.02]), and no significant effect during cancer treatment (n=1,162, β=-0.08 [-0.18; 0.02]). Larger effects were observed in interventions of 12 weeks or shorter (β=-0.14 [-0.25; -0.04]) or 24 weeks or longer (β=-0.18 [-0.32; -0.02]), whereas no effects were observed in interventions of 12-24 weeks (β=0.01 [-0.13; 0.15]). Exercise interventions were most beneficial when provided to patients without anxiety symptoms (β=-0.10 [-0.19; -0.02]) or after completion of treatment in patients with cognitive problems (β=-0.19 [-0.31; -0.06]). No other significant moderators were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This cross-cancer IPD meta-analysis observed small beneficial exercise effects on self-reported CF when the intervention was delivered post-treatment, especially in patients who reported cognitive problems at baseline.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

This study provides some evidence to support the prescription of exercise to improve cognitive functioning. Sufficiently powered trials are warranted to make more definitive recommendations and include these in the exercise guidelines for cancer survivors.

The role of programmed death receptor (PD-)1/PD-ligand (L)1 in periodontitis and cancer

The programmed-death-ligand-1 (PD-L1) is an immune-modulating molecule that is constitutively expressed on various immune cells, different epithelial cells and a multitude of cancer cells. It is a costimulatory molecule that may impair T-cell mediated immune response. Ligation to the programmed-death-receptor (PD)-1, on activated T-cells and further triggering of the related signaling pathways can induce T-cells apoptosis or anergy. The upregulation of PD-L1 in various cancer types, including oral squamous cell carcinomas, was demonstrated and has been linked to immune escape of tumors and poor prognosis. A bidirectional relationship exists between the increased PD-L1 expression and periodontitis as well as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process of interconversion of epithelial cells to mesenchymal cells that may induce immune escape of tumors. Interaction between exosomal PD-L1 and PD-1 on T-cells may cause immunosuppression by blocking the activation and proliferation of T-cells. The efficacy and importance of treatment with PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors and their prognostic influence on human cancers was demonstrated. Regarding PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors, resistances exist or may develop, basing on various factors. Further investigations of the underlying mechanisms will help to overcome the therapeutic limitations that result from resistances and to develop new strategies for the treatment of cancer.

Comparative effectiveness of interventions for cancer treatment-related cognitive impairment in adult cancer survivors: protocol for a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cancer treatment-related cognitive impairment (CTRCI) can substantially reduce the quality of life of cancer survivors. Many treatments of CTRCI have been evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including psychological interventions, pharmacologic interventions, and other therapies. There is a pressing need to establish the benefits and harms of previously studied CTRCI treatments. The proposed systematic review and network meta-analyses will assess the relative efficacy and safety of competing interventions for the management of CTRCI.

METHODS

In consultation with the review team, an experienced medical information specialist will draft electronic search strategies for MEDLINE®, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Trials Registry. We will seek RCTs of interventions for the treatment of CTRCI in adults with any cancer, except cancers/metastases of the central nervous system. Due to the anticipated high search yields, dual independent screening of citations will be expedited by use of an artificial intelligence/machine learning tool. The co-primary outcomes of interest will be subjective and objective cognitive function. Secondary outcomes of interest will include measures of quality of life, mental and physical health symptoms, adherence to treatment, and harms (overall and treatment-related harms and harms associated with study withdrawal), where feasible, random-effects meta-analyses and network meta-analyses will be pursued. We will address the anticipated high clinical and methodological heterogeneity through meta-regressions, subgroup analyses, and/or sensitivity analyses.

DISCUSSION

The proposed systematic review will deliver a robust comparative evaluation of the efficacy and safety of existing therapies for the management of CTRCI. These findings will inform clinical decisions, identify evidence gaps, and identify promising therapies for future evaluation in RCTs.

Cognition and Return to Work Status 2 Years After Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Importance

Return to work after breast cancer (BC) treatment depends on several factors, including treatment-related adverse effects. While cancer-related cognitive impairment is frequently reported by patients with BC, to date, no longitudinal studies have assessed its association with return to work.

Objective

To examine whether cognition, assessed using objective and subjective scores, was associated with return to work 2 years after BC diagnosis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In a case series of the French Cancer Toxicities (CANTO) cohort, a study of patients with stage I to III BC investigated cognition from April 2014 to December 2018 (2 years' follow-up). Participants included women aged 58 years or younger at BC diagnosis who were employed or looking for a job.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcome was return to work assessed 2 years after BC diagnosis. Objective cognitive functioning (tests), cognitive symptoms, anxiety, depression, and fatigue were prospectively assessed at diagnosis (baseline), 1 year after treatment completion, and 2 years after diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to explain return to work status at year 2 according to each cognitive measure separately, adjusted for age, occupational class, stage at diagnosis, and chemotherapy.

Results

The final sample included 178 women with BC (median age: 48.7 [range, 28-58] years), including 37 (20.8%) who did not return to work at year 2. Patients who returned to work had a higher (ie, professional) occupational class and were less likely to have had a mastectomy (24.1% vs 54.1%; P < .001). Return to work at year 2 was associated with lower overall cognitive impairment (1-point unit of increased odds ratio [1-pt OR], 0.32; 95% CI, 0.13-0.79; P = .01), higher working memory (1-pt OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.23-3.59; P = .008), higher processing speed (1-pt OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.20-3.36; P = .01) and higher attention performance (1-pt OR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.04-2.64; P = .04), higher perceived cognitive abilities (1-pt OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.03-1.21; P = .007), and lower depression (1-pt OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74-0.93; P = .001) at year 2 assessment. Return to work at year 2 was associated with several measures assessed at baseline and year 1: higher processing speed (1-pt OR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.37-4.31; P = .003 and 1.95; 95% CI, 1.14-3.50; P = .02), higher executive performance (1-pt OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.28-5.75; P = .01, and 2.88; 95% CI, 1.36-6.28; P = .006), and lower physical fatigue (10-pt OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69-0.95; P = .009 and 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71-0.98; P = .02).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case series study of patients with BC, return to work 2 years after diagnosis was associated with higher cognitive speed performance before and after BC treatment. Cognitive difficulties should be assessed before return to work to propose suitable management.

Cognitive Symptoms Across Diverse Cancers

Importance

Psychosocial health services for adults with cancer should include support for cognitive symptoms and symptom clusters.

Objective

To characterize the frequency and severity of cognitive symptoms and to identify demographic and clinical risk factors associated with moderate to severe cognitive symptoms among outpatient adults with cancer seeking psychosocial support.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from routine patient-reported symptom screening during clinic appointments at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada, between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2019. Participants were outpatient adults (aged ≥18 years) with diverse cancer diagnoses who endorsed interest in receiving psychosocial support from a health care team member. Data analysis was performed from April 2020 to June 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The presence and severity of cognitive symptoms as self-rated by participants were characterized across 12 cancer types: brain or central nervous system (CNS), breast, gastrointestinal, head and neck, gynecological, thyroid, lung and bronchus, sarcoma, genitourinary, melanoma, hematological, and all other cancers. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the associations between demographic, clinical, and symptom factors and moderate to severe cognitive symptoms.

Results

Across the sample of 5078 respondents (2820 females [55.5%]; mean [SD] age at time of survey, 56.0 [14.1] years) requesting psychosocial support, 3480 (68.5%) reported cognitive symptoms of any severity, ranging from 59.5% in sarcoma to 86.5% in brain or CNS cancer. Moderate to severe cognitive symptoms were reported by 1544 patients (30.4%), with the proportions being 51.3% for patients with brain or CNS, 37.0% for breast, 36.2% for thyroid, 30.9% for melanoma, 29.6% for head and neck, 28.3% for gastrointestinal, 28.2% for hematological, 28.1% for gynecological, 24.9% for lung and bronchus, 24.9% for sarcoma, 21.0% for genitourinary, and 26.8% for all other cancers. Across the entire sample, moderate to severe cognitive symptoms were associated with recurrence or progression involving the CNS (odds ratio [OR], 2.62; 95% CI, 1.80-3.81), depression (OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.59-2.31), tiredness (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.52-2.19), drowsiness (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.39-1.93), anxiety (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.30-1.89), shortness of breath (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.16-1.61), female sex (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.14-1.56), first-line chemotherapy received (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.05-1.41), and metastatic disease at diagnosis (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.61-0.89). Within individual cancer types, tiredness and depression were consistently associated with moderate to severe cognitive symptoms.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found that cognitive symptoms were frequently reported by patients across a wide range of cancer types; higher severity of cognitive symptoms was consistently associated with higher symptom burden. The findings could be used to inform decision-making regarding access to cognitive screening, assessment, and supportive care in outpatient oncology clinics.

Association between Cognitive Function and Physical Function, Frailty, and Quality of Life in Older Breast Cancer Survivors

BACKGROUND

Older cancer survivors in general are at greater risk for cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), yet few studies have explored its association with health outcomes. This study examined the association between subjective and objective measures of cognitive function and physical function, frailty, and quality of life (QoL) among older breast cancer survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Older breast cancer survivors who reported cognitive concerns completed surveys on patient-reported cognitive function, physical function, frailty, and QoL as well as objective tests of visuospatial working memory and sustained attention. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and separate linear regression models.

RESULTS

A total of 219 female breast cancer survivors completed the study. Perceived cognitive abilities were associated with better physical function, frailty, and QoL (p ≤ 0.001) while cognitive concerns were negatively related with these metrics (p ≤ 0.001). Poorer visuospatial working memory and sustained attention were linked to increased frailty (p ≤ 0.001-0.01), whereas poorer sustained attention was associated with poorer physical function (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Older breast cancer survivors with perceived cognitive impairment and poorer cognitive performance reported poorer physical functioning, increased frailty, and poorer QoL. These findings underscore the importance of assessing cognitive concerns and their associated outcomes in older breast cancer survivors.

Correlation between cancer-related cognitive impairment and resting cerebral glucose metabolism in patients with ovarian cancer

Background

An increasing number of research have applied neuroimaging techniques to explore the potential neurobiological mechanism of Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI).

Purpose

To explore the correlation between resting brain glucose metabolism and CRCI using 18F-FDG PET/CT in ovarian cancer (OC) patients.

Methods

From December 2021 to March 2022, 38 patients with OC were selected as the study group, and 38 healthy women of the same age (±1 year) who underwent routine physical examination using PET/CT were selected as the control group. Patients received further assessment with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) and Perceived Deficit Questionnaire (PDQ). Independent sample t-test and Spearman correlation were conducted for data analysis.

Results

The resting brain glucose metabolism in the OC group was significantly lower than in the healthy controls. 60.52 % patients had neuropsychological impairment and retrospective memory were the most serious perceived cognitive impairments. The resting brain glucose metabolism in OC patients did not significantly correlate with neuropsychological performance but had significant positive correlation with subjective cognitive evaluation.

Discussion

Resting glucose metabolism was low in OC patients and associated with subjective cognitive impairment but not objective neuropsychological test results. 18F-FDG PET/CT can be used to evaluate brain function in OC patients and provide reliable imaging indicators for early recognition of and intervention for changes in cognitive function.

What is the nature and impact of cognitive difficulties following hormonal treatments for prostate cancer?: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

OBJECTIVE

Prostate cancer hormonal treatments (e.g. androgen deprivation therapy) yield clinical benefits. However, there is increasing evidence these treatments may adversely impact cognitive functioning. This study aimed to qualitatively characterise the nature and impact of cognitive difficulties following these treatments.

METHODS

Prostate cancer survivors (PCS) self-reporting cognitive difficulties following hormonal treatments (via an online survey) and their partners were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Telephone or videoconferencing interviews were conducted, then transcribed, double-coded and analysed using the Framework Method, following the principles of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven participants (six PCS and five partners) were interviewed. PCS reported a range of cognitive difficulties, verified by their partners, including forgetfulness, "fogginess", fatigue and slowed processing speed. For some PCS, word-finding difficulties, tangential speech and memory problems were apparent during interviews. The aetiology of the reported cognitive difficulties was unclear as it was attributed to a possible combination of cancer treatments, compounding side-effects (e.g. fatigue, sleep problems, hot flashes), exacerbation of pre-existing conditions and/or age-related changes. Cognitive difficulties were reported to have led to shifts in self-perception, interpersonal dynamics and increased emotionality. Engagement in cognitively-stimulating activities and reliance on compensatory strategies were reported to be helpful in managing some cognitive difficulties. All participants endorsed the potential benefits of neuropsychological intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

There are a diverse range of cognitive difficulties following hormonal treatments for prostate cancer experienced by PCS and their partners. Understanding the impact of these difficulties is important for the development of targeted neuropsychological interventions.

Cognitive impairment following breast cancer treatments: an umbrella review

OBJECTIVES

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) refers to a cognitive decline associated with cancer or its treatments. While research into CRCI is expanding, evidence remains scattered due to differences in study designs, methodologies, and definitions. The present umbrella review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding the impact of different breast cancer therapies on cognitive functioning, with a particular focus on the interplay among objective cognitive deficits (ie, measured with standardized tests), subjective cognitive concerns, (ie, self-reported), and other mediating psycho-physical factors.

METHODS

The search was made in Pubmed, Embase, and Scopus for articles published until July 2023, following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis protocol.

RESULTS

Chemotherapy and endocrine therapy appear consistently associated with CRCI in patients with breast cancer, primarily affecting memory, attention/concentration, executive functioning, and processing speed. Subjective cognitive concerns were often found weakly or not associated with neuropsychological test results, while overall CRCI seemed consistently associated with psychological distress, fatigue, sleep quality, and inflammatory and biological factors.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence suggests that CRCI is common after chemotherapy and endocrine therapy for breast cancer. However, heterogeneity in study designs and the scarcity of studies on more recent treatments such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, highlight the need for more systematic and harmonized studies, possibly taking into account the complex and multifactorial etiology of CRCI. This may provide valuable insights into CRCI's underlying mechanisms and potential new ways to treat it.

Characterization of cancer survivors clustered by subjective and objective cognitive function scores

BACKGROUND

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts the quality of life of individuals who receive cancer treatment. Clinical management of CRCI presents challenges due to the absence of a standardized assessment. This study identified clinically relevant phenotypic clusters of CRCI based on subjective and objective cognitive function scores.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, participants were clustered using the VARCLUS™ based on subjective cognitive impairment assessed through the PROMIS® version 1.0 short-form subscales of cognitive abilities and cognitive concerns and the CANTAB Cambridge Cognition® scores, which included measures of visuospatial working memory capacity, visual episodic memory, new learning, working memory, executive function, and sustained attention. Each cluster's characteristics were described using demographics, physical and psychosocial factors (physical function, affect, optimism, and social support), and psychoneurological symptoms (anxiety, depression, fatigue, neuropathic pain, and sleep disturbance).

RESULTS

We obtained five clusters from a total of 414 participants, where 99% were female, and 93% were self-reported white. Clusters 4 and 5 showed the highest PROMIS® cognitive abilities and the lowest measures of cognitive concern, while Clusters 1 and 2 showed the lowest cognitive abilities and the highest cognitive concerns. Clusters 4 and 5 had higher education, income, employment, and higher scores in physical function, positive affect, optimism, and social support. Additionally, individuals in these clusters were less prone to experience severe cancer-related psychoneurological symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Our clustering approach, combining subjective and objective cognitive function information, shows promise in identifying phenotypes that hold clinical relevance for categorizing patient presentation of CRCI and facilitating individualized management strategies.

Web-based cognitive rehabilitation intervention for cancer-related cognitive impairment following chemotherapy for aggressive lymphoma: protocol for a randomised pilot trial

INTRODUCTION

Cancer-related cognitive impairment is common among people diagnosed with and treated for cancer. This can be a distressing and disabling side effect for impacted individuals. Interventions to mitigate cognitive dysfunction are available, but, to date, most have been trialled in samples that are largely or exclusively composed of people with solid tumours. Intervention strategies to support cognitive functioning are needed, but there is a paucity of research in this area. The main aim of this study is to test the feasibility and acceptability of methods and procedures intended for use in a definitive trial of a web-based cognitive rehabilitation programme, Responding to Cognitive Concerns (eReCog), in people who have received chemotherapy for aggressive lymphoma.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The proposed study is a single-site, parallel-group, pilot randomised controlled trial, with one baseline and one follow-up (or postintervention) assessment. 38 people from the target population with low perceived cognitive function based on the Cognitive Change Screen will be recruited from a specialist cancer centre between July 2023 and June 2024. After baseline assessment, participants will be randomised one-to-one to receive usual care only (a factsheet about changes in memory and thinking for people with cancer) or eReCog plus usual care. The 4-week eReCog intervention consists of four online modules offering psychoeducation on cognitive impairment associated with cancer and its treatment, skills training for improving memory, and attention and relaxation training. Study outcomes will include the feasibility of recruitment and retention at follow-up assessment (primary outcomes), as well as adherence to, usability of and intrinsic motivation to engage with eReCog, and compliance with study measures. The potential efficacy of eReCog will also be evaluated.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was granted by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Human Research Ethics Committee in Victoria, Australia (HREC/97384/PMCC). Study findings will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12623000705684.

Psychosocial Factors Associated with Cognitive Function in Prostate Cancer Survivors on Hormonal Treatments: A Systematic Review

Hormonal treatments (HT) for prostate cancer (e.g., androgen deprivation therapy) yield clinical and survival benefits, yet adverse cognitive changes may be a side effect. Since psychosocial factors are largely modifiable, interventions targeting these factors may help mitigate these adverse cognitive effects. This systematic review aimed to identify a range of psychosocial factors associated with cognitive function in individuals with prostate cancer undergoing HT and to determine whether these factors mitigate or exacerbate this effect. Applying PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of relevant databases conducted in September 2023 using terms related to prostate cancer, hormone therapy, and cognitive outcomes was undertaken. The search yielded 694 unique abstracts, with 11 studies included for analysis examining the relationship between cognitive function and the following psychosocial factors: psychological distress, fatigue, insomnia, and coping processes. Findings were mixed with only two studies reporting significant associations between cognitive performance with fatigue and depression. Three studies that included measures of perceived cognitive function identified associations with depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, illness threat appraisals, and coping styles. However, no studies found evidence for an association between self-reported and objective measures of cognitive functioning. Evidence regarding the association of interpersonal factors is lacking. Moreover, whether these factors mitigate or exacerbate the effect of HT on cognitive function still needs to be determined. Overall, the research exploring the association between psychosocial factors and cognitive function in prostate cancer survivors undergoing HT is still in its infancy. Further research is required to optimize the implementation of neuropsychological interventions for prostate cancer survivors.

The Application of tDCS to Treat Pain and Psychocognitive Symptoms in Cancer Patients: A Scoping Review

Background

The use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to modulate pain, psychological aspects, and cognitive functions has increased in recent years. The present scoping review aims to investigate the use of tDCS in cancer patients and its significant impact on psychocognitive and pain related symptoms.

Methods

From the earliest available date to June 2023, a comprehensive search was conducted in three electronic scientific databases-PubMed, Scopus, and Embase-and other supplementary sources. Ten relevant studies were identified and included, comprising single case studies, randomized controlled trials, pilot studies, and one retrospective study. PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews were followed.

Results

These studies investigated the use of tDCS to improve pain and psychocognitive aspects in patients with various types of cancer, including breast, oral, bladder, lung, pancreatic, head and neck cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and meningioma. Overall, the results suggest that tDCS has shown efficacy in relieving pain, reducing anxiety and depression, and improving cognitive function in cancer patients.

Conclusion

Due to the limited number and high heterogeneity of the existing literature in this field, more investigation and the establishment of standardized protocols would be required to obtain more conclusive evidence.

Identifying the unmet supportive care needs of individuals affected by testicular cancer: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To critically appraise studies to identify experiences of unmet supportive care needs of individuals affected by testicular cancer.

METHODS

A registered priori systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE were searched for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies using a wide range of search terms. All articles were double screened according to a pre-determined eligibility criterion. Reference lists of the final included studies were checked for further eligible studies. The review process was managed using Covidence systematic review software. Data from the studies were extracted, methodological quality appraisal conducted, and a narrative synthesis conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 72 papers identified, 36 studies were included. In descending order of frequency of need, psychological needs were identified in 26/36, physical needs 18/36, interpersonal/intimacy needs 19/36, health system/information needs 11/36, cognitive needs 9/36, social needs 7/36, and of equal frequencies counts of 4/36 for family, practical, and patient-clinician information needs. Only one study explored spiritual needs and no daily living needs were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

The experience of needs varied in terms of frequency and distress which were commonly influenced by the age of the individual across the cancer care continuum persisting after 1-year post-treatment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

When caring for individuals affected by testicular cancer, clinicians are encouraged to take a holistic lens to cancer care, particularly to explore issue or concerns that young men affected by testicular cancer might be embarrassed or reticent to discuss.

Cancer-related cognitive impairment and wellbeing in patients with newly diagnosed aggressive lymphoma compared to population norms and healthy controls: an exploratory study

PURPOSE

There has been little dedicated research on cancer-related cognitive impairment in patients with aggressive lymphoma. We describe and compare patients' cognitive function with that of healthy controls and patients' wellbeing and distress with general population values. We also explore associations between patients' neuropsychological test performance and self-reported cognitive function and distress.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of data from a feasibility study of 30 patients with newly diagnosed aggressive lymphoma and 72 healthy controls. Patients completed neuropsychological tests and self-report measures before and 6-8 weeks after chemotherapy. Healthy controls completed neuropsychological tests and the FACT-Cog at enrolment and 6 months later. Mixed models were used to analyze neuropsychological test and FACT-Cog scores. One-sample t-tests were used to compare patients' self-reported wellbeing and distress with population norms. Associations were explored with Kendall's Tau b.

RESULTS

Patients and healthy controls were well matched on socio-demographics. Differences between neuropsychological test scores were mostly large-sized; on average, patients' scores on measures of information processing speed, executive function, and learning and memory were worse both before and after chemotherapy (all p ≤ 0.003). The same pattern was observed for impact of perceived cognitive impairment on quality-of-life (both p < 0.001). Patients' physical and emotional wellbeing scores were lower than population norms both before and after chemotherapy (all p ≤ 0.018). Associations between neuropsychological performance and other measures were mostly trivial (all p > 0.10).

CONCLUSION

For many patients with aggressive lymphoma, impaired neuropsychological test performance and impact of perceived impairments on quality-of-life precede chemotherapy and are sustained after chemotherapy. Findings support the need for large-scale longitudinal studies with this population to better understand targets for interventions to address cognitive impairments.

Cognitive Function in Adults With Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treated With Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy is essential for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Previous studies concluded that survivors of cancer who were treated with chemotherapy experience cognitive impairment. Therefore, it is important to understand cognitive function in survivors of AML.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore distributions and correlates of cognitive function, and prediction of cognitive function on other outcomes in adults with AML who were treated with chemotherapy.

METHODS

A health science librarian systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and EMBASE databases. Two reviewers independently conducted the title, abstract, and full-text screening. Data were extracted and synthesized based on the aims of the review.

RESULTS

A total of 10 articles were included. Findings indicate that up to 62.2% of adults with AML experienced impaired cognitive function after starting chemotherapy. Three studies found cognitive function remained stable over time. Education and cytokines were potential correlates of cognitive function. Worse cognitive function may predict lower physical performance and higher mortality, although the results were inconsistent across studies.

CONCLUSION

Impaired cognitive function was observed in adults with AML who were treated with chemotherapy. However, no study used a validated subjective cognitive-function-specific patient-reported questionnaire, and previous studies focusing on cognitive function included relatively young samples. Hence, further research on cognitive function in older adults with AML is needed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Because of the high prevalence of cognitive impairment identified, it is important to screen cognitive function in adults with AML who are planning to receive chemotherapy to intervene and provide support earlier.

A common molecular and cellular pathway in developing Alzheimer and cancer

Globally cancer and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are two major diseases and still, there is no clearly defined molecular mechanism. There is an opposite relation between cancer and AD which are the proportion of emerging cancer was importantly slower in AD patients, whereas slow emerging AD in patients with cancer. In cancer, regulation of cell mechanisms is interrupted by an increase in cell survival and proliferation, while on the contrary, AD is related to augmented neuronal death, that may be either produced by or associated with amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau deposition. Stated that the probability that disruption of mechanisms takes part in the regulation of cell survival/death and might be implicated in both diseases. The mechanism of actions such as DNA-methylation, genetic polymorphisms, or another mechanism of actions that induce alteration in the action of drugs with significant roles in resolving the finding to repair and live or die might take part in the pathogenesis of these two ailments. The functions of miRNA, p53, Pin1, the Wnt signaling pathway, PI3 KINASE/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway GRK2 signaling pathway, and the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress are presented in this review as potential candidates which hypothetically describe inverse relations between cancer and AD. Innovative materials almost mutual mechanisms in the aetiology of cancer and AD advocates novel treatment approaches. Among these treatment strategies, the most promising use treatment such as tyrosine kinase inhibitor, nilotinib, protein kinase C, and bexarotene.

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors: A systematic review of studies from 2000 to 2021

BACKGROUND

Studies have indicated that apart from enhancing patient survival, chemotherapy has adverse side effects on the psychological, social, and cognitive functions of breast cancer survivors.

AIMS

This study was conducted to understand chemotherapy's impact on breast cancer survivors' cognitive functions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Our study is a systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. We searched English databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, and Persian databases, such as Irandoc and Elmnet, using Persian keywords of cancer, breast cancer, chemotherapy, cognitive functions, executive functions, and neuropsychological functions. Two reviewers independently evaluated the full text of the articles according to predefined criteria. Among the 937 available studies, 26 were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, of which 17 (65%) were longitudinal and 9 (35%) were cross-sectional. The findings indicated a significant relationship between the use of chemotherapy and cognitive impairments, most notably attention, working and short-term memory, and executive functions. However, the studies differed in their findings regarding the long-term persistence of cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), which could be due to the wide range of tools used, different methods to measure cognitive functions, and the difference in the sample size of the studies.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy, affecting cortical and subcortical brain structures, causes a set of cognitive impairments that can lead to impairments in social responsibility acceptance, daily functioning, and quality of life of women. Therefore, rigorous and extensive research design is required to understand the causes and consequences of CRCI using standardized and sensitive measures of cognitive functions. Specifically, studies comparing the effects of different chemotherapy regimens on cognition and potential mechanisms and/or moderators of CRCI would be instrumental in designing more effective therapy regimens and evaluating the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation and supportive care programs.

Variations in the agreement of self-reported cancer: A Danish nationwide study

Previous studies show that the agreement between self-reported and registry-documented diseases varies across diseases. Few studies have addressed these challenges across site-specific cancer diagnoses. The present study aimed to examine the sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) of self-reported cancer in a Danish nationwide survey among adults aged ≥16 years, using registry data as the criterion standard. Moreover, the influence of sociodemographic variables and time since diagnosis on sensitivity was explored using multiple logistic regression models. Self-reported data on cancer history of any site were derived from the Danish National Health Survey 2017 (n = 183 372). Individual-level survey data were linked to data from the Danish Cancer Registry on 10 site-specific cancer diagnoses. NPV was consistently high ≥99.5% across the included cancer diagnoses. In contrast, sensitivity varied greatly and was lowest for cancer in brain/central nervous system (CNS) among both men (25.6%) and women (23.9%) and highest for rectal cancer among men (96.9%) and for breast cancer among women (98.9%). Sensitivity was also relatively low for nonmelanoma skin cancer (41.4% among men; 44.6% among women) and urinary tract cancer (60.0% among men; 60.4% among women). When restricting diagnostic definitions for cancer in brain/CNS and urinary tract cancer to include only malignant neoplasms, sensitivity increased. For several cancer diagnoses, sensitivity decreased with increasing age and lower educational level, whereas conflicting results were observed for time from diagnosis to self-report. Future studies are encouraged to use self-reported cancer history data with caution and for example, include questions on only site-specific cancer diagnoses with high sensitivity.

"In My Mind, It Was Just Temporary": A Qualitative Study of the Impacts of Cancer on Men and Their Strategies to Cope

Individuals who are diagnosed and treated for cancer use a variety of strategies to manage its impacts. However, there is currently a lack of research on men's experience with managing cancer impacts, which is necessary to better support them throughout the cancer care continuum. This study explored the experience of men diagnosed with cancer, focusing on the impacts of the illness and its treatment and men's strategies to cope. A qualitative descriptive design was used. Thirty-one men (Mage = 52.7 [26-82] years) diagnosed with various cancer types were recruited to take part in individual telephone interviews (n = 14) or online focus groups (n = 17) addressing the impacts of cancer and strategies they used to cope with these impacts. Directed content analysis was performed, using Fitch's (2008) supportive care framework to guide the analysis. Cancer impacts and strategies used to cope were classified into six categories: physical, psychological, interpersonal, informational, practical, and spiritual. Results indicate that the cancer experience is diverse and multifaceted rather than homogeneous. Medical and supportive care services could be more effectively personalized to meet the diversity of men's needs by adopting a comprehensive and holistic approach to supportive care. Working in partnership with patients, it appears promising to recognize and identify men's needs and match them to appropriate resources to provide truly supportive care.

Exploring anxiety as an influencing factor of the impact of exercise and mind-body prehabilitation on cognitive functioning among women undergoing breast cancer surgery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this secondary analysis was to describe the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and perceived stress among women newly diagnosed with breast cancer and the impact of baseline and changes in anxiety on cognitive functioning following exercise and mind-body prehabilitation interventions.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 49 women with newly diagnosed breast cancer (stages I-III) who planned to undergo breast cancer surgery at two academic cancer centers. Participants were randomized to receive an exercise or mind-body prehabilitation intervention between the time of diagnosis and breast cancer surgery. Participants completed self-report measures of anxiety, depression (HADS), perceived stress, and cognitive functioning (EORTC-QLQ-C30) at study enrollment and prior to surgery (post-intervention). The relationships between change in cognitive functioning and change in anxiety among all participants were estimated using linear regression modeling.

RESULTS

A significant proportion of women with newly diagnosed breast cancer had clinically significant anxiety (34.0%). Greater anxiety was moderately associated with worse cognitive functioning (r = -0.33) at baseline. Linear modeling found that changes in cognitive functioning and anxiety were inversely related: Each one-unit decrease in anxiety was associated with a two-unit improvement in cognitive function (p = .06).

CONCLUSIONS

Anxiety was common in women with newly diagnosed breast cancer and was related to worse cognitive functioning. Assessment of anxiety at the time of diagnosis may allow for earlier anxiety management and subsequent improvement in cognitive functioning.

A randomised controlled trial evaluating two cognitive rehabilitation approaches for cancer survivors with perceived cognitive impairment

PURPOSE

Up to 70% of survivors report cognitive symptoms after chemotherapy. We compared two cognitive rehabilitation programs to a control group in cancer survivors.

METHODS

Study population were adult cancer survivors with cognitive symptoms 6-60 months after adjuvant chemotherapy. Participants randomised to: Attention Process Training (APT), Compensatory Strategy Training (CST), or control group. Active interventions comprised 6-week, 2-h/week small group sessions.

ASSESSMENTS

pre- and post-intervention, 6- and 12-months later. Primary outcome was change in cognitive symptoms (FACT-COG-PCI subscale) between baseline and post-intervention. Secondary endpoints included objective neuropsychological performance, Functional Impact Assessment (FIA), patient-reported outcome measures, and associations. Analyses were on an intention-to-treat basis. Analysis of covariance mixed models were used for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty-five participants were randomised (APT n = 21; CST n = 24; controls n = 20): 94% breast cancer, median age 54. Median time since chemotherapy 20.7 months. FACT-COG-PCI, clinical neuropsychological T-scores, and FIA improved in all groups over time, but no significant differences between arms. On mean neuropsychological T-scores 19/65 (29%) were impaired at baseline; post-intervention impairment controls 31.3%, CST 16.7%, APT 20.0%. On FIA at baseline, nine were impaired; this decreased to three post-intervention (one/group). FACT-COG-PCI was weakly associated with neuropsychological tests (rho = 0.24, p = 0.051) at baseline, and had no association with FIA. Neuropsychological total mean T-score was moderately positively associated with FIA (rho = 0.37, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences between intervention groups and controls using linear mixed models adjusted for baseline scores.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Cognitive symptoms and neuropsychological test scores improve over time.

Association of Circulating Levels of Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemotherapy-Associated Subjective Cognitive Impairment in a South African Cohort of Breast Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

The evidence links chemotherapy to cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients. This study assessed the link between subjective chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

In a correlational study, 113 patients aged 21 to 60 years on chemotherapy regimens completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognition Test (FACT-Cog) as a measure of subjective cognitive functioning at three time points (baseline- T0, third cycle- T1, and sixth cycle- T2). The levels of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) were measured using an assay method and compared with the subjective cognitive impairment.

RESULTS

Midway through chemotherapy, higher levels of TNF-α were inversely linked with self-perceived cognitive performance, while higher levels of IL-1β were positively associated (p = 0.030). However, at the end of chemotherapy, only IL-8 (p = 0.50) was associated with higher self-perceived cognitive problems.

CONCLUSIONS

The specific roles that various cytokines and their interactions may play in neuroinflammation or neuroprotection require further investigation.

Memory Impairments and Wellbeing in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers among women. Its effects on the cognitive and wellbeing domains have been widely reported in the literature, although with inconsistent results. The central goal of this review was to identify, in women with breast cancer, the main memory impairments, as measured by objective and subjective tools and their relationship with wellbeing outcomes. The systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest databases. The selected studies included 9 longitudinal and 10 cross-sectional studies. Although some studies included participants undergoing multimodal cancer therapies, most focused on chemotherapy's effects (57.89%; n = 11). The pattern of results was mixed. However, studies suggested more consistently working memory deficits in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In addition, some associations have been identified between objective memory outcomes (verbal memory) and wellbeing indicators, particularly depression and anxiety. The inconsistencies in the results could be justified by the heterogeneity of the research designs, objective and subjective measures, and sample characteristics. This review confirms that more empirical evidence is needed to understand memory impairments in women with breast cancer. An effort to increase the homogeneity of study methods should be made in future studies.

Assessing objective cognitive impairments in cancer survivors: Features and validity of measures for research and clinical applications

Objective

This narrative review aims to (1) identify neuropsychological tests for assessing cognitive function impairment in patients with cancer, specifically in the domains of attention and memory, (2) summarize the characteristics of these tests, including cognitive function domains, test content, readability, and psychometric quality, and (3) evaluate the feasibility of each test in cancer care.

Methods

Data sources include published test manuals, documents from official web pages, and published journal articles.

Results

Our study identified eight neuropsychological tests that are most frequently used to assess the attention and memory domains of objective cognitive function in patients with breast cancer. These tests include the California Verbal Learning Test, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, CNS Vital Signs, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Wechsler Memory Scale, and Trail Making Test. They demonstrate acceptable evidence of psychometric quality and varying degrees of feasibility. Test feasibility is influenced by factors such as short testing time, brevity and comprehensiveness, clear cognitive domain distinctions, availability of normative data, minimal practice effects, ease of administration, and limited attention-span requirements. These attributes determine a test's feasibility for use in cancer care. Among the evaluated measures, the California Verbal Learning Test for memory, the Trail Making Test for attention, and the CNS Vital Signs for comprehensive assessment emerge as the most practical choices for cancer care.

Conclusions

The assessment and management of cognitive function impairment are crucial for enhancing the quality of life in cancer survivors. Nurses should possess knowledge of assessment tools for early detection and the ongoing monitoring of this symptom's progression.

Neuroimaging based biotypes for precision diagnosis and prognosis in cancer-related cognitive impairment

Cancer related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is commonly associated with cancer and its treatments, yet the present binary diagnostic approach fails to capture the full spectrum of this syndrome. Cognitive function is highly complex and exists on a continuum that is poorly characterized by dichotomous categories. Advanced statistical methodologies applied to symptom assessments have demonstrated that there are multiple subclasses of CRCI. However, studies suggest that relying on symptom assessments alone may fail to account for significant differences in the neural mechanisms that underlie a specific cognitive phenotype. Treatment plans that address the specific physiologic mechanisms involved in an individual patient's condition is the heart of precision medicine. In this narrative review, we discuss how biotyping, a precision medicine framework being utilized in other mental disorders, could be applied to CRCI. Specifically, we discuss how neuroimaging can be used to determine biotypes of CRCI, which allow for increased precision in prediction and diagnosis of CRCI via biologic mechanistic data. Biotypes may also provide more precise clinical endpoints for intervention trials. Biotyping could be made more feasible with proxy imaging technologies or liquid biomarkers. Large cross-sectional phenotyping studies are needed in addition to evaluation of longitudinal trajectories, and data sharing/pooling is highly feasible with currently available digital infrastructures.

Subjective cancer-related cognitive impairments and salience network connectivity in breast cancer survivors

PURPOSE

Little is known about the neural basis of subjective cancer-related cognitive changes. The purpose of this study was to explore salience network connectivity in relation to subjective executive and memory dysfunction in breast cancer survivors compared to controls.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of neuroimaging, subjective cognitive, clinical, and demographic data in chemotherapy-treated primary breast cancer survivors compared to frequency matched controls was used. Functional connectivity within salience network hubs (anterior cingulate, bilateral insula) was determined using resting state functional MRI. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to evaluate group differences and Spearman's rho correlations were examined among the behavioral measures and salience network connectivity.

RESULTS

We included 65 breast cancer survivors and 71 controls. Survivors demonstrated greater subjective executive dysfunction and memory complaints (p < .001) and lower salience network connectivity (p < .05) than controls. Executive functioning correlated with bilateral insula and left anterior cingulate connectivity (rho >  - 0.29, p < .05). Distress did not correlate with salience network connectivity.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that salience network connectivity may represent a biomarker of subjective cancer-related cognitive changes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Subjective cancer-related cognitive changes are common following treatment and associated with objective changes in brain connectivity.

Validating the PROMIS cognitive function short form in cancer survivors

PURPOSE

The Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Cognitive Function Short Form 8a  (PROMIS Cog) could provide a shorter, useful alternative to the often used Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Cognition (FACT-Cog) in research and clinical care. This study aimed to determine the convergent validity and internal reliability of the PROMIS Cog in 3 separate samples of breast cancer survivors and to explore clinical cut points.

METHODS

Data from three samples of breast cancer survivors were used for this secondary analysis. Convergent validity was determined by evaluating correlation strength among the derived PROMIS Cog and measures of depression, anxiety, stress, fatigue, sleep, loneliness, the FACT-Cog . Clinical cut-points for the PROMIS Cog were determined by plotting the receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

3 samples of breast cancer survivors (N = 471, N = 132, N = 90) were included. Absolute values of correlations demonstrating convergent validity ranged from 0.21 to 0.82, p's < 0.001, and were comparable to correlations with the full FACT-Cog 18 item perceived cognitive impairments (PCI) scale. ROC curve plots indicated a clinical cut off < 34 for the combined sample.

CONCLUSION

The 8-item PROMIS Cog demonstrated good convergent validity and internal reliability in breast cancer survivors, comparable to the 18-item FACT-Cog PCI. The PROMIS Cog 8a is a brief self-report measure that can be easily incorporated into cancer-related cognitive impairment research designs or used in clinical settings.

Outcome Measures and Patient-Reported Metrics in Cancer Rehabilitation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The current panorama of measurement tools for use in cancer rehabilitation is reviewed. For rehabilitation purposes, evaluating function is of the highest priority.

RECENT FINDINGS

From a patient-reported outcome (PRO) standpoint, SF-36 and EORTC-QLQ-C30 are in most common use in cancer rehabilitation research; these are quality of life measures that contain functional subdomains. Newer tools which are based on item response theory and have options for both computer assisted or short form (SF) administration, including the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and Activity Measure for Post-acute Care (AMPAC) instruments, show increasing use, especially PROMIS Physical Function SF, and, recently, PROMIS Cancer Function Brief 3D, which has been validated in the cancer population, with domains of physical function, fatigue, and social participation, to track clinical rehabilitation outcomes. Evaluating objective measures of function in cancer patients is also crucial. Utilization of clinically feasible tools for cancer rehabilitation, to employ for both screening purposes and for monitoring of rehabilitation treatment efficacy, is an evolving area, much needed to promote further research and improved, consistent clinical care for cancer patients and survivors.

Young Adults' Lived Experiences with Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment: An Exploratory Qualitative Study

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI; e.g., disrupted memory, executive functioning, and information processing) affects many young adults, causing significant distress, reducing quality of life (QoL), and thwarting their ability to engage in professional, recreational, and social experiences. The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study was to investigate young adults' lived experiences with CRCI, and any strategies (including physical activity) they use to self-manage this burdensome side effect. Sixteen young adults (Mage = 30.8 ± 6.0 years; 87.5% female; Myears since diagnosis = 3.2 ± 3) who reported clinically meaningful CRCI whilst completing an online survey were interviewed virtually. Four themes comprising 13 sub-themes were identified through an inductive thematic analysis: (1) descriptions and interpretations of the CRCI phenomenon, (2) effects of CRCI on day-to-day and QoL, (3) cognitive-behavioural self-management strategies, and (4) recommendations for improving care. Findings suggest CRCI is detrimental to young adults' QoL and must be addressed more systematically in practice. Results also illuminate the promise of PA in coping with CRCI, but research is needed to confirm this association, test how and why this may occur, and determine optimal PA prescriptions for young adults to self-manage their CRCI.

Accuracy of a self-reported Measure in Psychological Assessment when the Instrument is self-administered by the Patient or when Administrated by the Clinician

Background

Self-reported measures are the questionnaire-based instrument that are routinely used in the clinical scenario to assess psychological health. Technically, the self-reported measure should be administrated by the patients themselves but due to the complexity of tools and illiteracy among patients, clinicians often tend to interview the patients.

Objective

Present article aims to compare the accuracy of a self-reported measure in the assessment of the psychological health of a patient when the instrument is self-administrated by the patient and when administrated by the clinician or researcher.

Methods

We have recruited 43 patients of oral cancer in the study who have a tumor in the buccal mucosa region. The Hindi version of the shame and stigma scale was used to analyse the shame and stigma in patients. The questionnaire was first provided to the patient for the self-administration and after that clinician administrated the questionnaire to the patient by keeping the clinician blinded to the patient self-administrated responses.

Results

There was no significant difference in the global mean score and mean score of various subdomains of shame and stigma scale in the self-administered and clinician-administered mode of interview. However, the clinician-administered mode could provide more accurate measures as it helps the patient towards a better understanding of questions.

Conclusion

It is recommended that the newly developed or translated self-reported measure should be tested for both patient administrated and clinician administrated compatibility. Questionnaires could be administrated by the clinician in the case when the patient is illiterate or in the case when the patient does not understand the language of the instrument.

Protocol for a prospective, longitudinal study of cognitive impairment in young patients with cancer: a multidisciplinary neuroscience approach (MyBrain)

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this research is to investigate young cancer patients' cognitive functioning and the underlying neurobiological mechanisms when cognitive functions are impaired. The MyBrain protocol is a multidisciplinary study that investigates cancer-related cognitive impairment in children, adolescents and young adults, combining neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience and cellular neuroscience. The study is exploratory with a wide focus on trajectories of cognitive functions from diagnosis to the end of treatment and into survivorship.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Prospective longitudinal study including patients diagnosed with non-brain cancers at age 7-29 years. Each patient is paired with a control matched on age and social circle.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of neurocognitive function over time.

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of self-perceived quality of life and fatigue, P300 in an electroencephalography (EEG) oddball paradigm, power spectrum in resting state EEG, serum and cerebrospinal fluid levels of biomarkers of neuronal damage, neuroplasticity, proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers and their association with cognitive function.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study is approved by the Regional Ethics Committee for the Capital Region of Denmark (no. H-21028495), and the Danish Data Protection Agency (no. P-2021-473). Results are expected to guide future interventions to prevent brain damage and support patients with cognitive difficulties.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

The article is registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT05840575 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05840575).

Anxiety, depression, and concentration in cancer survivors: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey results

PURPOSE

We report on prevalence of anxiety, depression, and concentration difficulties and their associations in survivors of cancer in a nationally representative sample up to 25 years after diagnosis.

METHODS

Using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2015 to 2018, participants between the ages of 18 and 79 self-reported on cancer history, symptoms of anxiety, depression, and difficulties with concentration.

RESULTS

Of 10,337 participants, 691 (6.7%) reported a previous diagnosis of cancer; the median time since diagnosis was 8 years. Prevalence was similar between those with and without cancer for anxiety (45.8% versus 46.9%) and depression (19.7% versus 20.0%). Concentration difficulties were more common (11.3% versus 9.0%) for those with a history of cancer compared to those without (adjusted OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.00-1.90). Prevalence of mental health symptoms was not related to time since diagnosis. Anxiety and depression were highly correlated (r = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.74-0.86) and moderately correlated with difficulty with concentration (r = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.40-0.64 and r = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.53-0.74 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Difficulty with concentration was more commonly reported by participants with than without a cancer history. Report of anxiety and depression was no different between participants with and without a history of cancer. Anxiety, depression, and difficulties with concentration were strongly related. Further research is needed to explore if there is a causal association, and if so, the direction of these correlations, so that interventions may be appropriately targeted.

Investigating the association between subjective and objective performance-based cognitive function among former collegiate football players

OBJECTIVE

Studies have observed variable associations of prior contact sport participation with subjective and objective measures of cognitive function. This study directly investigated the association between subjective self-report and objective performance-based cognition among former collegiate football players, as well as its relationship to self-reported concussion history.

METHODS

Former collegiate football players (N = 57; mean age = 37.9 years [SD = 1.49]) retired from sport 15-years prior were enrolled. Linear regression models examined associations between subjective cognition (Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders Cognitive Functioning-Short Form), and performance on a neuropsychological battery. Domain specific (executive function) metrics of subjective (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult) and objective cognition were also exclusively examined. Associations between self-reported concussion history with subjective and objective measures were tested. Potential influential factors (sleep quality and distress) were included as covariates.

RESULTS

Subjective cognition was not significantly associated with any objective measures of cognitive functioning (p's > .05). Greater self-reported concussion history was inversely associated with subjective cognition (B = -2.49, p = .004), but not objective performance-based cognition (p's > .05). Distress was significantly related to all metrics of subjective cognition (p's < .001) as well as performance on delayed recall and verbal fluency (p's < .05). Sleep quality was only significantly related to timed visuospatial sequencing (p = .033).

CONCLUSIONS

Reliance on self-reported measures of cognitive functioning alone is insufficient when assessing cognition in former contact sport athletes. Assessment of other factors known to influence subjective cognitive complaints should also be examined in determining the presence of cognitive deficits.

The high burden of symptoms associated with cognitive impairment in lung cancer patients: A latent class analysis

Objective

To explore the association between the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-depression symptom cluster (SC) and cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) in patients having lung cancer and to identify other factors influencing CRCI.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate 378 patients having lung cancer in China from October 2021 to July 2022. The perceived cognitive impairment scale and the general anxiety disorder-7 were used to assess patients' cognitive impairment and anxiety, respectively. The pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-depression SC was assessed with the brief fatigue inventory, the brief pain inventory, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and the Athens Insomnia Scale. Latent class analysis by Mplus.7.4 was used to identify latent classes of the SC. We adjusted for covariates in the multivariable logistic regression model to examine the relationship between the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-depression SC and CRCI.

Results

Among patients having lung cancer, two SC classes were identified: high and low symptom burden groups. In the crude model, compared to the low symptom burden group, the high symptom group had greater odds of developing CRCI (odds ratio: 10.065, 95% confidence interval: 4.138-24.478). After adjusting for covariates, in model 1, the high symptom group still had greater odds of developing CRCI (odds ratio: 5.531, 95% confidence interval: 2.133-14.336). Additionally, a diagnosis of over 6 months, anxiety, leisure activity, and a high platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio were found to be influencing factors of CRCI (all P ​< ​0.05).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that a high symptom burden is a significant risk factor for CRCI, which may provide a new perspective for managing CRCI in lung patients having cancer.

Cognitive impairment after cancer treatment: mechanisms, clinical characterization, and management

Cognitive impairment is a debilitating side effect experienced by patients with cancer treated with systemically administered anticancer therapies. With around 19.3 million new cases of cancer worldwide in 2020 and the five year survival rate growing from 50% in 1970 to 67% in 2013, an urgent need exists to understand enduring side effects with severe implications for quality of life. Whereas cognitive impairment associated with chemotherapy is recognized in patients with breast cancer, researchers have started to identify cognitive impairment associated with other treatments such as immune, endocrine, and targeted therapies only recently. The underlying mechanisms are diverse and therapy specific, so further evaluation is needed to develop effective therapeutic interventions. Drug and non-drug management strategies are emerging that target mechanistic pathways or the cognitive deficits themselves, but they need to be rigorously evaluated. Clinically, consistent use of objective diagnostic tools is necessary for accurate diagnosis and clinical characterization of cognitive impairment in patients treated with anticancer therapies. This should be supplemented with clinical guidelines that could be implemented in daily practice. This review summarizes the recent advances in the mechanisms, clinical characterization, and novel management strategies of cognitive impairment associated with treatment of non-central nervous system cancers.

A scoping review of cognitive assessment tools and domains for chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments in cancer survivors

Backgrounds

Cancer survivors suffer from specific symptoms known as chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments (CICIs). CICIs are difficult to capture with existing assessments such as the brief screening test for dementia. Although recommended neuropsychological tests (NPTs) exist, international consensus and shared cognitive domains of assessment tools are unknown. The aim of this scoping review was as follows: (1) to identify studies that assess CICIs in cancer survivors; (2) to identify shared cognitive assessment tools and domains by mapping the domains reported in studies using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.

Methods

The study followed the recommendations made by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. We searched the following three databases through October 2021: PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Prospective longitudinal or cross-sectional studies were selected to determine CICI-specific assessment tools for adult cancer survivors.

Results

Sixty-four prospective studies (36 longitudinal studies and 28 cross-sectional studies) were included after checking for eligibility. The NPTs were divided into seven main cognitive domains. The specific mental functions were often used in the order of memory, attention, higher-level cognitive functions, and psychomotor functions. Perceptual functions were used less frequently. In some ICF domains, shared NPTs were not clearly identified. In some different domains, the same NPTs were used, such as the trail making test and the verbal fluency test. When the association between the publishing year and the amount of NPT use was examined, it was found that the amount of tool use tended to decline over the publication years. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognitive function (FACT-Cog) was a shared consensus tool among the patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

Conclusion

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments are currently gaining interest. Shared ICF domains such as memory and attention were identified for NPTs. There was a gap between the publicly recommended tools and the tools actually used in the studies. For PROs, a clearly shared tool, FACT-Cog, was identified. Mapping the domains reported in studies using the ICF can help in the process of reviewing consensus on which NPTs may be used to target cognitive domains.

Systematic review registration

https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000053710, identifier UMIN000047104.

Remote, Computerised Cognitive Assessment for Breast Cancer- and Treatment-Related Cognitive Dysfunction: Psychometric Characteristics of the Cogsuite Neurocognitive Battery

OBJECTIVE

Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) is a significant concern for breast cancer survivors. The Cogsuite battery was developed to improve sensitivity to CRCD with the use of cognitive experimental measures, clarify specific cognitive processes impacted and to be capable of being administered either in-office or remotely.

METHODS

In sum, 357 breast cancer survivors and non-cancer controls completed the Cogsuite Battery in-office (n = 76) or remotely (n = 281). Measure validity, sensitivity to demographic factors, correlations with standard neuropsychological measures and intercorrelations of Cogsuite variables were assessed. Test-retest reliability was evaluated in-office (n = 24) and remotely (n = 80).

RESULTS

Test-retest reliability for most variables assessed was adequate to strong. Internal validity, as indicated by the confirmation of expected condition effects within each measure, was established for all measures. Assessment of external validity found age, but not education, was a significant predictor in the majority of measures. Assessment of criterion validity found that Cogsuite variables were correlated with standard measures in psychomotor speed, working memory and executive function, but not associated with self-reported cognition or mood.

CONCLUSIONS

Cogsuite is reliable and valid, and is sensitive to the effects of increasing age on cognition. The addition of the Cogsuite battery to standard assessment may improve sensitivity to CRCD and identify underlying processes that may be affected. Remote use of the Cogsuite battery in appropriate settings will lessen the burden for providers, researchers and survivors in research and clinical contexts.

The Relationship Between Self-reported Cognitive Abilities and Psychological Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors

BACKGROUND

Many breast cancer survivors (BCSs) report numerous symptoms following cancer treatment, including cognitive concerns and psychological symptoms (anxiety and depression). However, the association among these symptoms is not well understood.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives were to, primarily, examine the relationship between self-reported cognitive ability and psychological symptoms (anxiety and depressive symptoms) controlling for potential confounders of age, education, and time posttreatment and, secondarily, examine the relationship between self-reported cognitive domains (attention, language, visuoperception, visual memory, and verbal memory) and psychological symptoms.

METHODS

This secondary data analysis pooled data from 2 theoretically and conceptually congruent, institutional review board-approved studies of BCSs. Breast cancer survivors completed the Multiple Ability Self-report Questionnaire (cognitive ability), Spielberger State Trait Anxiety Inventory-State (anxiety), and Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (depressive symptoms). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and separate linear regression.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-five BCSs who were on average 54.8 (SD, 8.9) years of age, approximately 5 years (mean, 5.2 [SD, 3.8] years) posttreatment, and well-educated (mean, 15.2 [SD, 2.2] years) completed questionnaires. In bivariate correlations, higher anxiety and depressive symptoms were significantly related to cognitive abilities in all domains ( P = <.01). In the regression model, increased anxiety was associated with poorer cognitive abilities in all domains ( P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Anxiety and depressive symptoms were associated with decrements in self-reported cognitive abilities among BCSs.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

With increasing numbers of BCSs, more research is needed to address psychological symptoms, which correlate with cognitive function. Findings from this analysis can inform clinical BCS survivorship care planning and future interventional research, focused on comprehensive symptom management.