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Cuthbert CA, O'Sullivan DE, Boyne DJ, Brenner DR, Cheung WY. Patient-Reported Symptom Burden and Supportive Care Needs of Patients With Stage II-III Colorectal Cancer During and After Adjuvant Systemic Treatment: A Real-World Evidence Study. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e377-e388. [PMID: 36608313 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) experience a range of physical and psychologic symptoms, and supportive care needs throughout the illness trajectory. We used patient-reported outcomes and administrative health data to describe symptom burden and supportive care needs during and after adjuvant treatment and determine factors associated with changes to symptom burden. METHODS A retrospective population-based cohort study of patients who were newly diagnosed with stage II-III CRC in Alberta, Canada, between January 1, 2016, and January 31, 2019. Adults age 18 years or older who completed a patient-reported outcomes survey (Edmonton Symptom Assessment System) and supportive care needs (Canadian Problem Checklist) within 3 months after starting adjuvant treatment (during treatment) and > 7 months after starting treatment (after treatment) were included. Changes to symptom severity were stratified as stable, improved, or deteriorated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with these changes. RESULTS We included 303 patients (median age 60 years, 62% male, 84.5% stage III, 51.2% rectal v colon). Prevalent symptoms included tiredness (80.5%), pain (50.8%), and poor well-being (50%) during treatment, and tiredness (71.3%), pain (44.2%), and poor well-being (62.1%) after treatment. The results were heterogeneous with respect to improvements, stability, or deterioration. Pain worsened for 25% of the cohort, tiredness for 28%, and depression, anxiety, and well-being for 21%, 22%, and 31%, respectively. Deterioration of some symptoms was associated with older age, stage II, comorbidities, rural setting, and higher income. CONCLUSION We demonstrated symptom severity was generally low and most symptoms remained stable or improved after treatment. Particular groups of patients were at greater risk for more severe and/or more persistent symptoms. Ongoing assessments and interventions to address physical and psychologic symptoms, and supportive care needs in patients with CRC during and after treatment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dylan E O'Sullivan
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Devon J Boyne
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Darren R Brenner
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Health Services, Cancer Care, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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2
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Xu Y, Cuthbert CA, Karim S, Kong S, Dort JC, Quan ML, Hinther AV, Quan H, Hemmelgarn BR, Cheung WY. Associations Between Physician Prescribing Behavior and Persistent Postoperative Opioid Use Among Cancer Patients Undergoing Curative-intent Surgery: A Population-based Cohort Study. Ann Surg 2022; 275:e473-e478. [PMID: 32398487 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000003938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association between prescribers' opioid prescribing history and persistent postoperative opioid use in cancer patients undergoing curative-intent surgery. BACKGROUND Study has shown that patients may be over-prescribed analgesics after surgery. However, whether and how the prescriber's opioid prescribing behavior impacts persistent opioid use is unclear. METHODS All adults with a diagnosis of solid cancers who underwent surgery during the study period (2009-2015) in Alberta, Canada and were opioid-naïve were included. The key exposure was the historical opioid-prescribing pattern of a patient's most responsible prescriber. The primary outcome was "new persistent postoperative opioid user," was defined as a patient who was opioid-naïve before surgery and subsequently filled at least 1 opioid prescription between 60 and 180 days after surgery. RESULTS We identified 24,500 patients. Of these, 2106 (8.6%) patients became a new persistent opioid user after surgery. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients with most responsible prescribers that historically prescribed higher daily doses of opioids (≥50 vs <50 mg oral morphine equivalent) had an increased risk of new persistent opioid use after surgery (odds ratio = 2.41, P < 0.0001). In addition to the provider's prescribing pattern, other factors including younger age, comorbidities, presurgical opioid use, chemotherapy, type of tumor/surgical procedure were also found to be independently associated with new persistent postoperative opioid use. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that prescriber with a history of prescribing a higher opioid dose is an important predictor of persistent postoperative opioid use among cancer patients undergoing curative-intent surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Xu
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Colleen A Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Safiya Karim
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shiying Kong
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joseph C Dort
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- The Ohlson Research Initiative, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - May Lynn Quan
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ashley V Hinther
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- The Ohlson Research Initiative, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hude Quan
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Brenda R Hemmelgarn
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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3
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Cuthbert CA, Farragher JF, Farrer CL, Cheung WY. Living with paradox: A qualitative study of colorectal cancer patients' experiences in managing their health after cancer treatment. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13416. [PMID: 33506569 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Managing one's health after colorectal cancer may present specific challenges given long-term impacts to biopsychosocial functioning. Understanding experiences of managing one's health post-treatment is important to informing patient-centred supportive care. METHODS A qualitative study with 19 patients who had completed treatment for colorectal cancer to explore the experience of managing one's health. Following Thorne's Interpretive Description, we conducted interviews using either focus groups or individual interviews. Transcribed data were analysed following Thorne's approach. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were also collected. RESULTS The metaphor of living with paradox was the main theme characterising the experiences of managing one's health in the post-treatment period. Participants described the ambiguity of health, their need to accept the new normal, losing control and taking back control, experiencing positive and negative life changes, and the need to continually reframe their perspectives to focus on the positives. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that providing patient-centred care to colorectal cancer survivors post-treatment involves recognising their changing and sometimes conflicting experiences. Their ability to manage their health may fluctuate and their supportive care needs may not fit with a particular trajectory. Cancer care systems should strive for flexibility in the structure and timing of support available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Janine F Farragher
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christie L Farrer
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,CancerControl, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Batra A, Yang L, Boyne DJ, Harper A, Cheung WY, Cuthbert CA. Associations between baseline symptom burden as assessed by patient-reported outcomes and overall survival of patients with metastatic cancer. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:1423-1431. [PMID: 32676854 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serial symptom assessments using patient-reported outcomes may be challenging to implement in routine clinical practices. We aimed to determine if a single measurement of symptom burden at the time of metastatic diagnosis is associated with survival. METHODS We examined baseline patient-reported outcomes (within 90 days of diagnosis) of patients newly diagnosed with metastatic breast, lung, colorectal, or prostate cancer using the revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESASr) questionnaire. The ESASr was categorized into physical, psychological, and total symptom domains whereby scores were classified as none to mild (0-3) or moderate to severe (4-10). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to evaluate the effect of baseline symptom scores on overall survival. RESULTS We identified 1316 patients eligible for analysis. There were 181, 601, 240, and 294 patients with breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer, respectively. Approximately one-quarter of all patients reported moderate to severe physical, psychological, and total symptom subscores. On multivariable Cox regression analysis, older age (P < 0.001), male sex (P = 0.002), primary lung cancer (P < 0.001), and smoking in the previous month (P = 0.007) were predictive of inferior overall survival as were baseline moderate to severe physical (hazard ratio, 1.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-1.90; P = 0.002) and total symptom subscores (hazard ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.81; P = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS A single assessment of baseline symptom burden using the ESASr in patients with metastatic cancer has significant prognostic value. This may represent a feasible first step towards routine collection of patient-reported outcomes in real-world settings where serial symptom measurements can be challenging to implement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Batra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Devon J Boyne
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew Harper
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Colleen A Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. .,Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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5
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Singh N, Batra A, Yang L, Boyne DJ, Harper A, Ghatage P, Cuthbert CA, Cheung WY. Patient-Reported Symptom Burden Near the End of Life in Patients With Gynaecologic Cancers. J Obstet Gynaecol Can 2020; 43:26-33. [PMID: 32967796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2020.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are limited data on patient-reported outcomes near the end of life in patients with gynaecologic cancers. This study aimed to assess the symptom burden in the last 6 months of life in a real-world cohort. METHODS Patients diagnosed with metastatic gynaecologic malignancies from 2016 to 2019 who completed the revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESASr) questionnaire within 6 months of death in a large Canadian province were identified. Patient-reported symptom scores were categorized as none to mild (0-3) and moderate to severe (4-10). Individual symptoms were subsequently grouped into physical, psychological, and total subscores. The severity of symptoms was further analyzed for any associations with age, time to death, and primary tumour site (ovarian vs. uterocervical and vulvovaginal). RESULTS We identified 107 patients with gynaecologic malignancies including 59 ovarian, 29 uterocervical, and 19 vulvovaginal cancers. The median ages at diagnosis and questionnaire completion were 64 and 65 years, respectively. The median time from completing the ESASr questionnaire to death was 65 days. Overall, physical and psychological symptoms were moderate to severe in 57.9% and 40.2% of patients, respectively. Among the individual symptoms, tiredness was the most commonly reported moderate to severe symptom (74.9%), while shortness of breath was least commonly reported (31.6%). While physical (P < 0.001) and total symptom (P = 0.009) subscores were more likely to be moderate to severe in intensity as death approached, the psychological subscore (P = 0.744) had no relationship with time to death. Longer time to death was predictive of lower physical (P = 0.002) and total symptom (P = 0.002) subscores, while a primary uterocervical cancer site was associated with a lower psychological symptom subscore (P = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS In the real-world setting, unique symptom trajectories can emerge for patients with gynaecologic cancer near the end of life. Knowledge of these specific symptom patterns can help inform the development and delivery of targeted palliative interventions to improve quality of life for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lin Yang
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, AB
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Cuthbert CA, Xu Y, Kong S, Boyne DJ, Hemmelgarn BR, Cheung WY. Patient-level factors associated with chronic opioid use in cancer: a population-based cohort study. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4201-4209. [PMID: 31900614 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05224-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Concerns around chronic opioid use (COU), misuse, and harms have led to increased scrutiny of opioid prescribing in oncology. There is lack of research examining patient-level factors associated with COU. Our aim was to examine patient-level factors associated with COU in newly diagnosed cancer patients. METHODS Population-based retrospective cohort study using administrative health data of patients in Alberta, Canada, diagnosed between February 2016 and October 2017. Adult cancer patients who completed a symptom survey within ± 60 days of diagnosis were included. Patients were divided into two groups: COU (defined as continuous opioid prescriptions for at least 90 days post-diagnosis) and non-chronic opioid use (NCOU). Logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with COU. RESULTS We included 694 patients (mean age 65 years; 51% female). Most had breast (20%), colorectal (13%), and lung (33%) cancers. Of the 14% with COU, 79% were opioid naïve at diagnosis. Those in the COU group were more often diagnosed with advanced cancer (66% versus 40%), had lung cancer (47%), and were opioid tolerant (> 90 days of continuous opioids within one-year pre-diagnosis). A total of 64% of COU versus 27% of NCOU had moderate to severe pain at diagnosis (p < 0.001). Irrespective of treatment type or stage, those with moderate to severe pain, were opioid tolerant at diagnosis, or had multiple prescribers were at greater risk for COU. CONCLUSIONS Specific patient groups were at increased risk of COU and should be the focus of adaptive prescribing approaches to ensure that opioid use is appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, PF 2294, 2500 University Drive N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Yuan Xu
- Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Shiying Kong
- Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Devon J Boyne
- Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Brenda R Hemmelgarn
- Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Alberta Health Services Cancer Control, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Cuthbert CA, Farragher JF, Hemmelgarn BR, Ding Q, McKinnon GP, Cheung WY. Self‐management interventions for cancer survivors: A systematic review and evaluation of intervention content and theories. Psychooncology 2019; 28:2119-2140. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.5215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A. Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Janine F. Farragher
- Department of Community Health SciencesUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Brenda R. Hemmelgarn
- Department of Community Health SciencesUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Qirui Ding
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Geoffrey P. McKinnon
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Winson Y. Cheung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of Calgary Calgary Alberta Canada
- Alberta Health Services Cancer ControlTom Baker Cancer Center Calgary Alberta Canada
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Cuthbert CA, Watson L, Xu Y, Boyne DJ, Hemmelgarn BR, Cheung WY. Patient-reported outcomes in Alberta: rationale, scope, and design of a database initiative. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:e503-e509. [PMID: 31548818 DOI: 10.3747/co.26.4919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Background The collection of patient reported outcomes (pros) is a standard of care in many cancer organizations. In Alberta, pros have been integrated into routine clinical practice since 2012. This longitudinal collection of pros provides a wealth of data and a unique research opportunity to improve cancer care. The goal of this pro data initiative is to establish a robust repository of information for ongoing clinical care and research focused on pros. In this paper, we describe the rationale, scope, and design of this initiative. Implementation The initiative consists of pros and other administrative health data from the province of Alberta. Retrieval of health data from a variety of provincially governed sources will create a platform of information on pros, health outcomes, cancer data, other health conditions, and demographics. The aims of the initiative are to use the data to inform best practices at the point of care; to conduct health services research, particularly clinical epidemiology studies; and to evaluate a variety of pro-related outcomes. Discussion Because this effort represents our first to integrate routinely collected pros with other administrative health data, a unique and robust data repository will be created. The ability to integrate various types of data will provide a comprehensive mechanism to evaluate a variety of outcomes. Because cancer care in Alberta is governed by a single health care system, the data linkages will include population health and psychosocial cancer data. We anticipate that research related to this initiative will ultimately help to inform more patient-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - L Watson
- Alberta Health Services CancerControl and Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - Y Xu
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - D J Boyne
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - B R Hemmelgarn
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - W Y Cheung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
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Boyne DJ, Cuthbert CA, O’Sullivan DE, Sajobi TT, Hilsden RJ, Friedenreich CM, Cheung WY, Brenner DR. Association Between Adjuvant Chemotherapy Duration and Survival Among Patients With Stage II and III Colon Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2019; 2:e194154. [PMID: 31099875 PMCID: PMC6537824 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.4154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The results from the recent International Duration Evaluation of Adjuvant Therapy (IDEA) collaboration have led some clinicians to adopt shorter durations of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage III colon cancer. The extent to which these findings are supported by other data is unknown. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and observational studies investigating the association between the duration of adjuvant chemotherapy and survival among individuals diagnosed as having stage II and III colon cancer (PROSPERO protocol CRD42018108711]). DATA SOURCES Abstracts published in English between 2003 and 2018 within the MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases were reviewed by 2 authors. Also searched were conference proceedings and the indexes of high-impact oncology journals. STUDY SELECTION Studies were excluded if they did not present original data; focused on animal populations, on cancers in sites other than the colon, or on patients with stage 0, I, or IV disease; did not examine a 5-flourouracil-based monotherapy or combination therapy; or did not evaluate the association between treatment duration and survival. The search identified 2341 articles, from which 2 randomized trials and 20 observational studies were included in the meta-analysis. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS This study followed the PRISMA and MOOSE reporting guidelines. The risk of bias was assessed by 2 authors using the Cochrane and Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tools. The results were synthesized using a random-effects model. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary and secondary outcomes were overall survival and disease-free survival, respectively. It was hypothesized a priori that 3 months of chemotherapy would be as effective as 6 months of chemotherapy. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were included in the meta-analysis, representing 43 671 patients. The inclusion of patients with stage II disease or with rectal cancer was identified as a source of heterogeneity. After restricting the analysis to patients with stage III colon cancer, there was no association between the duration of chemotherapy and overall survival among studies involving FOLFOX (leucovorin calcium [folinic acid], fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin) or CAPOX (capecitabine plus oxaliplatin) regimens (hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.58-1.09). Among studies focused exclusively on monotherapy, the standard 6-month regimen relative to a 3-month regimen was associated with improved survival (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.52-0.68). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Shortened durations of chemotherapy may reduce survival among patients with stage III colon cancer prescribed monotherapy but not a combination regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon J. Boyne
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Colleen A. Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dylan E. O’Sullivan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tolulope T. Sajobi
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert J. Hilsden
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christine M. Friedenreich
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Winson Y. Cheung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Darren R. Brenner
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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10
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Cuthbert CA, Hemmelgarn BR, Xu Y, Cheung WY. The effect of comorbidities on outcomes in colorectal cancer survivors: a population-based cohort study. J Cancer Surviv 2018; 12:733-743. [PMID: 30191524 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-018-0710-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the prevalence of comorbidities and the association of these comorbidities with demographics, tumor characteristics, treatments received, overall survival, and causes of death in a population-based cohort of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. METHODS Adult patients with stage I-III CRC diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 were included. Comorbidities were captured using Charlson comorbidity index. Causes of death were categorized using International Classification of Diseases, tenth revision codes. Patients were categorized into five mutually exclusive comorbid groups (cardiovascular disease alone, diabetes alone, cardiovascular disease plus diabetes, other comorbidities, or no comorbidities). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kaplan-Meier survival analyses, and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS There were 12,265 patients. Mean follow-up was 3.8 years. Approximately one third of patients had a least one comorbidity, with cardiovascular disease and diabetes being most common. There were statistically significant differences across comorbid groups on treatments received and overall survival. Those with comorbidity had lower odds of treatment and greater risk of death than those with no comorbidity. Those with cardiovascular disease plus diabetes fared the worst for prognosis (median overall survival 3.3 [2.8-3.7] years; adjusted HR for death, 2.27, 95% CI 2.0-2.6, p < .001). Cardiovascular disease was the most common cause of non-CRC death. CONCLUSIONS CRC patients with comorbidity received curative intent treatment less frequently and experienced worse outcomes than patients with no comorbidity. Cardiovascular disease was the most common cause of non-cancer death. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Management of comorbidities, including healthy lifestyle coaching, at diagnosis and into survivorship is an important component of cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Brenda R Hemmelgarn
- Departments of Community Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Yuan Xu
- Departments of Surgery, Community Health Sciences, and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Winson Y Cheung
- Departments of Oncology and Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
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Cuthbert CA, Boyne DJ, Hemmelgarn BR, Cheung WY. Using patient reported outcomes (PROs) to hear the patient: Are we listening? J Clin Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2018.36.15_suppl.e22134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Winson Y. Cheung
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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12
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Winson Y. Cheung
- Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Cuthbert CA, King-Shier KM, Ruether JD, Tapp DM, Wytsma-Fisher K, Fung TS, Culos-Reed SN. The Effects of Exercise on Physical and Psychological Outcomes in Cancer Caregivers: Results From the RECHARGE Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Behav Med 2018; 52:645-661. [DOI: 10.1093/abm/kax040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, University Drive Northwest, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, 1331, 29th Street Northwest, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kathryn M King-Shier
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - J Dean Ruether
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, University Drive Northwest, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, 1331, 29th Street Northwest, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dianne M Tapp
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Tak S Fung
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, University Drive Northwest, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Information Technologies, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - S Nicole Culos-Reed
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Psychosocial Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Cuthbert CA, King-Shier K, Tapp D, Ruether D, Culos-Reed SN. Exploring Gender Differences in Self-Reported Physical Activity and Health Among Older Caregivers. Oncol Nurs Forum 2017. [PMID: 28632242 DOI: 10.1188/17.onf.435-445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To document self-reported physical health and activity levels of older caregivers. Gender differences in physical health, physical activity levels, and predictors of physical activity were also examined.
. DESIGN A cross-sectional study.
. SETTING Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
. SAMPLE 130 caregivers aged 60 years or older caring for individuals with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer.
. METHODS Self-report survey including validated questionnaires on physical and mental health and physical activity levels. Convenience sampling was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression.
. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES The physical component score of the SF-36v2® was the main research variable. Other variables included the mental component score of the SF-36v2, sleep quality, depression, social support, physical activity levels, and anxiety.
. FINDINGS The mean age of caregivers was 70 years. Physical health and physical activity levels were higher than population norms. A significant difference in physical health (p = 0.015) existed between men and women but not in physical activity levels (p = 0.079). Predictors of physical activity levels were age (β = -0.291), physical health (β = 0.307), and caregiving hours per week (β = -0.221).
. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that gender had a minimal effect on physical health and no effect on physical activity levels in older caregivers. Depression and poor sleep quality were high in some caregivers but did not predict physical activity levels.
. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING The negative effects of caregiving on physical health and physical activity levels in older caregivers are not universal. Nurses should be aware of the caregiving situation and promote health based on the individual.
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Cuthbert CA, Culos-Reed SN, King-Shier K, Ruether JD, Bischoff MB, Tapp DM. Creating an upward spiral: A qualitative study of caregivers' experience of participating in a structured physical activity programme. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2017; 26. [PMID: 28382645 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Family caregivers' physical and emotional well-being may be negatively impacted while in the caregiver role. Interventions to support caregiver health have largely focused on psychological support, with only a few studies to date evaluating the role of exercise. Of the exercise studies conducted, there has been one qualitative study examining caregivers' perspectives on the value and impact of this type of intervention. This qualitative study was part of a larger mixed methods investigation including a randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of a 24-week exercise programme for cancer caregivers conducted in western Canada. We aimed to explore cancer family caregivers' experience of participating in a structured exercise programme. We conducted face-to-face interviews with 20 of the participants from the exercise intervention and analysed transcribed data using Thorne's interpretive description as a guiding framework. Two main patterns characterised the experiences of the caregivers. The metaphor of a downward spiral represented the experience of being in the caregiver role, while the metaphor of an upward spiral represented the experience of participating in the exercise programme. Our findings highlight that caregivers valued the exercise programme, experienced positivity through exercise and the group-based format, and noticed improvements to their physical and emotional well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Cuthbert
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Health Services, Cancer Care, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - S N Culos-Reed
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Psychosocial Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - K King-Shier
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - J D Ruether
- Alberta Health Services, Cancer Care, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - M B Bischoff
- Faculty of Communication, Media and Film, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - D M Tapp
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Cuthbert CA, King-Shier K, Tapp DM, Ruether D, Jackson C, Culos-Reed SN. Renewing caregiver health and wellbeing through exercise (RECHARGE): A randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2016; 50:273-83. [PMID: 27530087 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Revised: 07/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers (FCs) to cancer patients are at increased risk for physical and emotional health problems as a result of being in the caregiver role. Current research on interventions for FCs has focused on psychological support or educational interventions, with very little investigation of exercise in maintaining or improving health. Based on our preliminary survey, participation in regular exercise to improve health was noted as a priority for FCs. The purpose of the study described in this protocol is to examine the impact of a 12-week structured exercise program on physical functioning (primary outcome), physical activity levels and psychological well-being (secondary outcomes), in FCs caring for adult cancer patients. In addition, the trial described here will examine the outcomes from a 12-week maintenance program, immediately following the initial program. METHODS/DESIGN A mixed methods design using a randomized control trial (RCT) with a 50/50 allocation ratio for the quantitative portion, followed by face to face interviews and qualitative data analysis. Approximately 86 participants will be enrolled over a 10 month period. The intervention will consist of a structured exercise program of aerobic and resistance training. An intention to treat principle using mixed effects modeling will guide data analysis. DISCUSSION FCs will continue to play a pivotal role in the care of cancer patients as the incidence and chronicity of cancer increases. The research described in this protocol will provide information about the impact of an exercise program in supporting FC health. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02580461.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A Cuthbert
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2800 University Way N.W., University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Alberta Health Services, Cancer Care, Tom Baker Cancer Center, 1331 - 29th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada.
| | - Kathryn King-Shier
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2800 University Way N.W., University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Dianne M Tapp
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2800 University Way N.W., University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Dean Ruether
- Alberta Health Services, Cancer Care, Tom Baker Cancer Center, 1331 - 29th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada; Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Colleen Jackson
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW,Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1.
| | - S Nicole Culos-Reed
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, KNB 2229, 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Psychosocial Oncology, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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Warr JK, Chambers CR, Cusano FL, Cuthbert CA, Mah MS. Feasibility of using the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer Antiemesis Tool for assessment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2014; 21:348-57. [PMID: 24938292 DOI: 10.1177/1078155214540317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) has been shown to adversely impact patient anxiety, quality of life, treatment adherence, and use of health care resources. CINV control still remains a challenge, and lack of effective communication between the patient and clinician has been highlighted in the literature as the main barrier to optimal control. The Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) has developed a tool (MASCC Antiemesis Tool (MAT)) to improve assessment and subsequent management of CINV by enhancing communication between patients and their clinicians. This study assessed the feasibility of using the MAT in patients at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. The secondary objective was to describe the incidence of CINV as identified by the tool. METHODS AND MATERIALS This study involved a prospective survey using the MAT in patients receiving intravenous chemotherapy. Subjects completed the MAT twice post-chemotherapy regarding CINV symptoms and returned it at their next clinic appointment. Participants were also surveyed to evaluate feasibility with regard to using the MAT. RESULTS Of the 50 patients recruited, 56% returned surveys. The majority of patients reported that the MAT facilitated communication with their clinician, particularly those who had experienced CINV. Fifty-four percent of patients who returned the MAT reported CINV; however, less than half of them had received American Society of Clinical Oncology-recommended antiemetic regimens. Only four patients with CINV had antiemetic changes made for subsequent cycles. CONCLUSION The MAT is a feasible tool which can improve communication of CINV symptoms between patients and clinicians, a foundational step toward improving CINV management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Warr
- Pharmacy Department, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Canada
| | | | | | - Colleen A Cuthbert
- Pharmacy Department, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Canada University of Calgary, Nursing department, Canada
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