Perceived Social Support as a Predictor of Disease-Specific Quality of Life in Head-and-Neck Cancer Patients
Frank J. Penedo, PhD; Lara Traeger, PhD; Catherine Benedict, MS; Giovana Thomas, MD; Jason R. Dahn, PhD; Madeline Hernandez Krause, MS; and W. Jarrard Goodwin, MD
ABSTRACT
Background: Treatment for head-and-neck cancer (HNC) can lead to severe decrements in disease-specific quality of life (DSQOL) due to disfigurement and disability in speech, eating, and/or breathing. Psychosocial factors such as social support may explain individual variance in DSQOL outcomes.
Objective: The researchers sought to evaluate changes in perceived availability of social support from pretreatment to posttreatment and to determine whether decreases in perceived social support predicted poorer posttreatment DSQOL among HNC patients, controlling for disease-and treatment-related factors.
Methods: Participants (n equals 32) were newly diagnosed with HNC and were awaiting surgery and/or radiation treatment. Measures included the ENRICHD Social Support instrument (ESSI) to assess perceived social support and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Head & Neck (FACT-H&N) to assess DSQOL. Paired-samples t-tests and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to determine relationships between pretreatment and posttreatment perceived social support and DSQOL.
Results: Perceived social support decreased significantly from pre-to posttreatment (F[31] equals –2.71, P less than .01). After adjusting for relevant covariates and pretreatment DSQOL, change in perceived social support remained a significant predictor of posttreatment DSQOL (Beta equals 0.47, P less than .01).
Limitations: This study included a relatively small sample of HNC patients, which limited power to evaluate mechanisms of observed relationships.
Conclusions: Increased social isolation may be a risk factor for poorer physical recovery from, or adjustment to, treatment-related side effects. Social support may be an important target for psychosocial interventions for patients who face challenging treatment side effects.
To read the article, please see the attached pdf file.
Perceived Social Support as a Predictor of Disease-Specific Quality of Life in Head-and-Neck Cancer Patients
Frank J. Penedo, PhD; Lara Traeger, PhD; Catherine Benedict, MS; Giovana Thomas, MD; Jason R. Dahn, PhD; Madeline Hernandez Krause, MS; and W. Jarrard Goodwin, MD
ABSTRACT
Background: Treatment for head-and-neck cancer (HNC) can lead to severe decrements in disease-specific quality of life (DSQOL) due to disfigurement and disability in speech, eating, and/or breathing. Psychosocial factors such as social support may explain individual variance in DSQOL outcomes.
Objective: The researchers sought to evaluate changes in perceived availability of social support from pretreatment to posttreatment and to determine whether decreases in perceived social support predicted poorer posttreatment DSQOL among HNC patients, controlling for disease-and treatment-related factors.
Methods: Participants (n equals 32) were newly diagnosed with HNC and were awaiting surgery and/or radiation treatment. Measures included the ENRICHD Social Support instrument (ESSI) to assess perceived social support and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Head & Neck (FACT-H&N) to assess DSQOL. Paired-samples t-tests and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to determine relationships between pretreatment and posttreatment perceived social support and DSQOL.
Results: Perceived social support decreased significantly from pre-to posttreatment (F[31] equals –2.71, P less than .01). After adjusting for relevant covariates and pretreatment DSQOL, change in perceived social support remained a significant predictor of posttreatment DSQOL (Beta equals 0.47, P less than .01).
Limitations: This study included a relatively small sample of HNC patients, which limited power to evaluate mechanisms of observed relationships.
Conclusions: Increased social isolation may be a risk factor for poorer physical recovery from, or adjustment to, treatment-related side effects. Social support may be an important target for psychosocial interventions for patients who face challenging treatment side effects.
To read the article, please see the attached pdf file.
Perceived Social Support as a Predictor of Disease-Specific Quality of Life in Head-and-Neck Cancer Patients
Frank J. Penedo, PhD; Lara Traeger, PhD; Catherine Benedict, MS; Giovana Thomas, MD; Jason R. Dahn, PhD; Madeline Hernandez Krause, MS; and W. Jarrard Goodwin, MD
ABSTRACT
Background: Treatment for head-and-neck cancer (HNC) can lead to severe decrements in disease-specific quality of life (DSQOL) due to disfigurement and disability in speech, eating, and/or breathing. Psychosocial factors such as social support may explain individual variance in DSQOL outcomes.
Objective: The researchers sought to evaluate changes in perceived availability of social support from pretreatment to posttreatment and to determine whether decreases in perceived social support predicted poorer posttreatment DSQOL among HNC patients, controlling for disease-and treatment-related factors.
Methods: Participants (n equals 32) were newly diagnosed with HNC and were awaiting surgery and/or radiation treatment. Measures included the ENRICHD Social Support instrument (ESSI) to assess perceived social support and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Head & Neck (FACT-H&N) to assess DSQOL. Paired-samples t-tests and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to determine relationships between pretreatment and posttreatment perceived social support and DSQOL.
Results: Perceived social support decreased significantly from pre-to posttreatment (F[31] equals –2.71, P less than .01). After adjusting for relevant covariates and pretreatment DSQOL, change in perceived social support remained a significant predictor of posttreatment DSQOL (Beta equals 0.47, P less than .01).
Limitations: This study included a relatively small sample of HNC patients, which limited power to evaluate mechanisms of observed relationships.
Conclusions: Increased social isolation may be a risk factor for poorer physical recovery from, or adjustment to, treatment-related side effects. Social support may be an important target for psychosocial interventions for patients who face challenging treatment side effects.
To read the article, please see the attached pdf file.
Health-resource utilization attributable to skeletal-related events in patients with advanced cancers associated with bone metastases: results of the US cohort from a multicenter observational study
Background: Patients with advanced cancer and bone metastases frequently experience skeletal-related events (SREs) including pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression, and radiation or surgery to bone. This prospective, observational study characterized health-resource utilization (HRU) associated with each SRE type across tumor types. Methods: Patients with bone metastases secondary to breast, prostate, or lung cancer as well as patients with multiple myeloma were enrolled within 97 days of experiencing an SRE and were followed prospectively for up to 18 months. Data on hospitalization, length of hospital stay, outpatient visits, emergency department visits, nursing home or long-term care facility stays, home health visits, procedures, and medication usage were collected and attributed to SREs by investigators. Results: In all, 238 patients were prospectively followed for a median of 9.5 months after enrollment. Bisphosphonates were prescribed in 77% of patients. Of 510 SREs recorded, 442 were included in the HRU analyses. Spinal cord compression and surgery to bone were associated with the highest rates of inpatient stays (mean, 0.6 hospitalizations per SRE), and length of stay was longest for pathologic fracture (mean, 16 days per SRE). Radiation to bone had the most outpatient visits (mean, 10 visits per SRE) and procedures (mean, 12 per SRE). Limitations: HRU was likely underestimated because patient charts may not have been comprehensive, and the study design did not capture all potential HRU sources. Sample sizes were small for some SRE types. Conclusions: Each SRE type was associated with substantial HRU, and patterns of HRU were unique across SRE type. The HRU burden of SREs in patients with bone metastases is considerable, even with bisphosphonate treatment.
*For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Background: Patients with advanced cancer and bone metastases frequently experience skeletal-related events (SREs) including pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression, and radiation or surgery to bone. This prospective, observational study characterized health-resource utilization (HRU) associated with each SRE type across tumor types. Methods: Patients with bone metastases secondary to breast, prostate, or lung cancer as well as patients with multiple myeloma were enrolled within 97 days of experiencing an SRE and were followed prospectively for up to 18 months. Data on hospitalization, length of hospital stay, outpatient visits, emergency department visits, nursing home or long-term care facility stays, home health visits, procedures, and medication usage were collected and attributed to SREs by investigators. Results: In all, 238 patients were prospectively followed for a median of 9.5 months after enrollment. Bisphosphonates were prescribed in 77% of patients. Of 510 SREs recorded, 442 were included in the HRU analyses. Spinal cord compression and surgery to bone were associated with the highest rates of inpatient stays (mean, 0.6 hospitalizations per SRE), and length of stay was longest for pathologic fracture (mean, 16 days per SRE). Radiation to bone had the most outpatient visits (mean, 10 visits per SRE) and procedures (mean, 12 per SRE). Limitations: HRU was likely underestimated because patient charts may not have been comprehensive, and the study design did not capture all potential HRU sources. Sample sizes were small for some SRE types. Conclusions: Each SRE type was associated with substantial HRU, and patterns of HRU were unique across SRE type. The HRU burden of SREs in patients with bone metastases is considerable, even with bisphosphonate treatment.
*For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Background: Patients with advanced cancer and bone metastases frequently experience skeletal-related events (SREs) including pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression, and radiation or surgery to bone. This prospective, observational study characterized health-resource utilization (HRU) associated with each SRE type across tumor types. Methods: Patients with bone metastases secondary to breast, prostate, or lung cancer as well as patients with multiple myeloma were enrolled within 97 days of experiencing an SRE and were followed prospectively for up to 18 months. Data on hospitalization, length of hospital stay, outpatient visits, emergency department visits, nursing home or long-term care facility stays, home health visits, procedures, and medication usage were collected and attributed to SREs by investigators. Results: In all, 238 patients were prospectively followed for a median of 9.5 months after enrollment. Bisphosphonates were prescribed in 77% of patients. Of 510 SREs recorded, 442 were included in the HRU analyses. Spinal cord compression and surgery to bone were associated with the highest rates of inpatient stays (mean, 0.6 hospitalizations per SRE), and length of stay was longest for pathologic fracture (mean, 16 days per SRE). Radiation to bone had the most outpatient visits (mean, 10 visits per SRE) and procedures (mean, 12 per SRE). Limitations: HRU was likely underestimated because patient charts may not have been comprehensive, and the study design did not capture all potential HRU sources. Sample sizes were small for some SRE types. Conclusions: Each SRE type was associated with substantial HRU, and patterns of HRU were unique across SRE type. The HRU burden of SREs in patients with bone metastases is considerable, even with bisphosphonate treatment.
*For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Health-resource utilization attributable to skeletal-related events in patients with advanced cancers associated with bone metastases: results of the US cohort from a multicenter observational study
Display Headline
Health-resource utilization attributable to skeletal-related events in patients with advanced cancers associated with bone metastases: results of the US cohort from a multicenter observational study
Legacy Keywords
skeletal-related events, SREs, bone metastases, health-resource utilization
Legacy Keywords
skeletal-related events, SREs, bone metastases, health-resource utilization
Depression and Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Relation between the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores less than 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores greater or equal to 40 participated in clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores less than 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores greater or equal to 40 participated in clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores less than 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores greater or equal to 40 participated in clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Depression and Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Relation between the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General
Display Headline
Depression and Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Relation between the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Original research
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Previous Presentation: Presented in part at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Orlando, Florida, May 29–June 2, 2009.
Luigi Celio, MD
,
Angela Denaro, MD,
Francesco Agustoni, MD,
Emilio Bajetta, MD
Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS “Istituto Nazionale Tumori,” Milan, Italy
Received 11 February 2011. Accepted 16 June 2011. Available online 23 September 2011.
The non-inferiority of palonosetron plus 1-day versus 3-day dexamethasone in preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) due to moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC) has been previously demonstrated.
Objective
The objectives of this prespecified post hoc analysis were to demonstrate the non-inferiority hypothesis in an adjusted model for known risk factors (age, gender, alcohol consumption, and type of MEC [anthracycline plus cyclophosphamide (AC)–based versus other MEC]) for CINV and to explore the impact on antiemetic outcome of these risk factors.
Methods
Chemonaive patients (n = 324) with solid tumors were randomized to receive palonosetron 0.25 mg IV plus dexamethasone 8 mg IV on day 1 of chemotherapy or the same regimen followed by oral dexamethasone 8 mg on days 2 and 3. The primary end point was complete response (CR, no emesis and no rescue antiemetics) during the 5-day study period. A modified intention-to-treat approach was used for multivariable analysis.
Results
Non-inferiority of the 1-day regimen was confirmed even after adjusting for risk factors (risk difference −4.4%, 95% CI −14.1% to 5.4%; P = .381). Only age less than 50 years (P = .044) independently predicted a poor outcome of antiemetic treatment. However, most of the younger patients were women (1-day regimen 81.8%, 3-day regimen 88.4%) who underwent AC-based chemotherapy (1-day regimen 61.1%, 3-day regimen 71.0%). There were no significant between-treatment differences in the CR rate according to risk factors.
Conclusion
This analysis confirmed that the 1-day regimen provides a valid treatment option for prevention of CINV in delayed, non-AC-based MEC.
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Previous Presentation: Presented in part at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Orlando, Florida, May 29–June 2, 2009.
Luigi Celio, MD
,
Angela Denaro, MD,
Francesco Agustoni, MD,
Emilio Bajetta, MD
Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS “Istituto Nazionale Tumori,” Milan, Italy
Received 11 February 2011. Accepted 16 June 2011. Available online 23 September 2011.
The non-inferiority of palonosetron plus 1-day versus 3-day dexamethasone in preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) due to moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC) has been previously demonstrated.
Objective
The objectives of this prespecified post hoc analysis were to demonstrate the non-inferiority hypothesis in an adjusted model for known risk factors (age, gender, alcohol consumption, and type of MEC [anthracycline plus cyclophosphamide (AC)–based versus other MEC]) for CINV and to explore the impact on antiemetic outcome of these risk factors.
Methods
Chemonaive patients (n = 324) with solid tumors were randomized to receive palonosetron 0.25 mg IV plus dexamethasone 8 mg IV on day 1 of chemotherapy or the same regimen followed by oral dexamethasone 8 mg on days 2 and 3. The primary end point was complete response (CR, no emesis and no rescue antiemetics) during the 5-day study period. A modified intention-to-treat approach was used for multivariable analysis.
Results
Non-inferiority of the 1-day regimen was confirmed even after adjusting for risk factors (risk difference −4.4%, 95% CI −14.1% to 5.4%; P = .381). Only age less than 50 years (P = .044) independently predicted a poor outcome of antiemetic treatment. However, most of the younger patients were women (1-day regimen 81.8%, 3-day regimen 88.4%) who underwent AC-based chemotherapy (1-day regimen 61.1%, 3-day regimen 71.0%). There were no significant between-treatment differences in the CR rate according to risk factors.
Conclusion
This analysis confirmed that the 1-day regimen provides a valid treatment option for prevention of CINV in delayed, non-AC-based MEC.
Original research
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Previous Presentation: Presented in part at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Orlando, Florida, May 29–June 2, 2009.
Luigi Celio, MD
,
Angela Denaro, MD,
Francesco Agustoni, MD,
Emilio Bajetta, MD
Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS “Istituto Nazionale Tumori,” Milan, Italy
Received 11 February 2011. Accepted 16 June 2011. Available online 23 September 2011.
The non-inferiority of palonosetron plus 1-day versus 3-day dexamethasone in preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) due to moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC) has been previously demonstrated.
Objective
The objectives of this prespecified post hoc analysis were to demonstrate the non-inferiority hypothesis in an adjusted model for known risk factors (age, gender, alcohol consumption, and type of MEC [anthracycline plus cyclophosphamide (AC)–based versus other MEC]) for CINV and to explore the impact on antiemetic outcome of these risk factors.
Methods
Chemonaive patients (n = 324) with solid tumors were randomized to receive palonosetron 0.25 mg IV plus dexamethasone 8 mg IV on day 1 of chemotherapy or the same regimen followed by oral dexamethasone 8 mg on days 2 and 3. The primary end point was complete response (CR, no emesis and no rescue antiemetics) during the 5-day study period. A modified intention-to-treat approach was used for multivariable analysis.
Results
Non-inferiority of the 1-day regimen was confirmed even after adjusting for risk factors (risk difference −4.4%, 95% CI −14.1% to 5.4%; P = .381). Only age less than 50 years (P = .044) independently predicted a poor outcome of antiemetic treatment. However, most of the younger patients were women (1-day regimen 81.8%, 3-day regimen 88.4%) who underwent AC-based chemotherapy (1-day regimen 61.1%, 3-day regimen 71.0%). There were no significant between-treatment differences in the CR rate according to risk factors.
Conclusion
This analysis confirmed that the 1-day regimen provides a valid treatment option for prevention of CINV in delayed, non-AC-based MEC.
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Display Headline
Palonosetron Plus 1-Day Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Due to Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: Effect of Established Risk Factors on Treatment Outcome in a Phase III Trial
Spiritual Well-Being and Quality of Life of Women with Ovarian Cancer and Their Spouses
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later.
Original research
Spiritual Well-Being and Quality of Life of Women with Ovarian Cancer and Their Spouses
There is little research on the quality of life (QOL) and spiritual well-being (SWB) of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and their spouses.
Objective
We compared the SWB and QOL of these women and their spouses over a 3-year period.
Methods
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later. All participants completed the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)–Spiritual Well-Being–Expanded Version, Symptom Distress Scale, and open-ended questions about changes in their lives. Diagnosed women completed the FACIT-Ovarian and spouses the Caregiver Burden Interview and Linear Analog Self-Assessment scales.
Results
Women reported a high level of SWB over time. Spouses' SWB was significantly worse than the women's at 1 and 3 years (P ≤ .05). Insomnia, fatigue, and outlook/worry were problematic across time, with no significant differences between women and spouses except that women experienced more insomnia through 3 months (P = .02). Emotional well-being was compromised over time for the women but not their spouses until year 3. Physical and social well-being were compromised in spouses across time, while women's social well-being remained high and physical well-being was problematic only for the first year.
Limitations
Limitations include a small spouse sample and, due to the disease process, attrition over time.
Conclusions
Ovarian cancer has significant, but different, effects on women and spouses. Some effects are static, while others are not, which underscores the need for continual monitoring.
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later.
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later.
Original research
Spiritual Well-Being and Quality of Life of Women with Ovarian Cancer and Their Spouses
There is little research on the quality of life (QOL) and spiritual well-being (SWB) of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and their spouses.
Objective
We compared the SWB and QOL of these women and their spouses over a 3-year period.
Methods
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later. All participants completed the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)–Spiritual Well-Being–Expanded Version, Symptom Distress Scale, and open-ended questions about changes in their lives. Diagnosed women completed the FACIT-Ovarian and spouses the Caregiver Burden Interview and Linear Analog Self-Assessment scales.
Results
Women reported a high level of SWB over time. Spouses' SWB was significantly worse than the women's at 1 and 3 years (P ≤ .05). Insomnia, fatigue, and outlook/worry were problematic across time, with no significant differences between women and spouses except that women experienced more insomnia through 3 months (P = .02). Emotional well-being was compromised over time for the women but not their spouses until year 3. Physical and social well-being were compromised in spouses across time, while women's social well-being remained high and physical well-being was problematic only for the first year.
Limitations
Limitations include a small spouse sample and, due to the disease process, attrition over time.
Conclusions
Ovarian cancer has significant, but different, effects on women and spouses. Some effects are static, while others are not, which underscores the need for continual monitoring.
Original research
Spiritual Well-Being and Quality of Life of Women with Ovarian Cancer and Their Spouses
There is little research on the quality of life (QOL) and spiritual well-being (SWB) of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and their spouses.
Objective
We compared the SWB and QOL of these women and their spouses over a 3-year period.
Methods
This is a descriptive, longitudinal study involving 70 women with ovarian cancer and 26 spouses. Questionnaires were completed postoperatively and by mail 3, 7, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months later. All participants completed the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)–Spiritual Well-Being–Expanded Version, Symptom Distress Scale, and open-ended questions about changes in their lives. Diagnosed women completed the FACIT-Ovarian and spouses the Caregiver Burden Interview and Linear Analog Self-Assessment scales.
Results
Women reported a high level of SWB over time. Spouses' SWB was significantly worse than the women's at 1 and 3 years (P ≤ .05). Insomnia, fatigue, and outlook/worry were problematic across time, with no significant differences between women and spouses except that women experienced more insomnia through 3 months (P = .02). Emotional well-being was compromised over time for the women but not their spouses until year 3. Physical and social well-being were compromised in spouses across time, while women's social well-being remained high and physical well-being was problematic only for the first year.
Limitations
Limitations include a small spouse sample and, due to the disease process, attrition over time.
Conclusions
Ovarian cancer has significant, but different, effects on women and spouses. Some effects are static, while others are not, which underscores the need for continual monitoring.
National palliative care guidelines outline spiritual care as a domain of palliative care, yet patients' religiousness and/or spirituality (R/S) are underappreciated in the palliative oncology setting. Among patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative radiation therapy (RT), this study aims to characterize patient spirituality, religiousness, and religious coping; examine the relationships of these variables to quality of life (QOL); and assess patients' perceptions of spiritual care in the cancer care setting.
Methods
This is a multisite, cross-sectional survey of 69 patients with advanced cancer (response rate = 73%) receiving palliative RT. Scripted interviews assessed patient spirituality, religiousness, religious coping, QOL (McGill QOL Questionnaire), and perceptions of the importance of attention to spiritual needs by health providers. Multivariable models assessed the relationships of patient spirituality and R/S coping to patient QOL, controlling for other significant predictors of QOL.
Results
Most participants (84%) indicated reliance on R/S beliefs to cope with cancer. Patient spirituality and religious coping were associated with improved QOL in multivariable analyses (β = 10.57, P < .001 and β = 1.28, P = .01, respectively). Most patients considered attention to spiritual concerns an important part of cancer care by physicians (87%) and nurses (85%).
Limitations
Limitations include a small sample size, a cross-sectional study design, and a limited proportion of nonwhite participants (15%) from one US region.
Conclusion
Patients receiving palliative RT rely on R/S beliefs to cope with advanced cancer. Furthermore, spirituality and religious coping are contributors to better QOL. These findings highlight the importance of spiritual care in advanced cancer care.
*For a PDF of the full article click in the link to the left of this introduction.
National palliative care guidelines outline spiritual care as a domain of palliative care, yet patients' religiousness and/or spirituality (R/S) are underappreciated in the palliative oncology setting. Among patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative radiation therapy (RT), this study aims to characterize patient spirituality, religiousness, and religious coping; examine the relationships of these variables to quality of life (QOL); and assess patients' perceptions of spiritual care in the cancer care setting.
Methods
This is a multisite, cross-sectional survey of 69 patients with advanced cancer (response rate = 73%) receiving palliative RT. Scripted interviews assessed patient spirituality, religiousness, religious coping, QOL (McGill QOL Questionnaire), and perceptions of the importance of attention to spiritual needs by health providers. Multivariable models assessed the relationships of patient spirituality and R/S coping to patient QOL, controlling for other significant predictors of QOL.
Results
Most participants (84%) indicated reliance on R/S beliefs to cope with cancer. Patient spirituality and religious coping were associated with improved QOL in multivariable analyses (β = 10.57, P < .001 and β = 1.28, P = .01, respectively). Most patients considered attention to spiritual concerns an important part of cancer care by physicians (87%) and nurses (85%).
Limitations
Limitations include a small sample size, a cross-sectional study design, and a limited proportion of nonwhite participants (15%) from one US region.
Conclusion
Patients receiving palliative RT rely on R/S beliefs to cope with advanced cancer. Furthermore, spirituality and religious coping are contributors to better QOL. These findings highlight the importance of spiritual care in advanced cancer care.
*For a PDF of the full article click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Original research
The Role of Spirituality and Religious Coping in the Quality of Life of Patients With Advanced Cancer Receiving Palliative Radiation Therapy
National palliative care guidelines outline spiritual care as a domain of palliative care, yet patients' religiousness and/or spirituality (R/S) are underappreciated in the palliative oncology setting. Among patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative radiation therapy (RT), this study aims to characterize patient spirituality, religiousness, and religious coping; examine the relationships of these variables to quality of life (QOL); and assess patients' perceptions of spiritual care in the cancer care setting.
Methods
This is a multisite, cross-sectional survey of 69 patients with advanced cancer (response rate = 73%) receiving palliative RT. Scripted interviews assessed patient spirituality, religiousness, religious coping, QOL (McGill QOL Questionnaire), and perceptions of the importance of attention to spiritual needs by health providers. Multivariable models assessed the relationships of patient spirituality and R/S coping to patient QOL, controlling for other significant predictors of QOL.
Results
Most participants (84%) indicated reliance on R/S beliefs to cope with cancer. Patient spirituality and religious coping were associated with improved QOL in multivariable analyses (β = 10.57, P < .001 and β = 1.28, P = .01, respectively). Most patients considered attention to spiritual concerns an important part of cancer care by physicians (87%) and nurses (85%).
Limitations
Limitations include a small sample size, a cross-sectional study design, and a limited proportion of nonwhite participants (15%) from one US region.
Conclusion
Patients receiving palliative RT rely on R/S beliefs to cope with advanced cancer. Furthermore, spirituality and religious coping are contributors to better QOL. These findings highlight the importance of spiritual care in advanced cancer care.
*For a PDF of the full article click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Determinants of Physical Activity in Palliative Cancer Patients: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Original research
Determinants of Physical Activity in Palliative Cancer Patients: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Sonya S. Lowe, MD, MSc
,
,
Sharon M. Watanabe, MD,
Vickie E. Baracos, PhD,
Kerry S. Courneya, PhD
Department of Symptom Control and Palliative Care, The Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, and the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Received 23 March 2011. Accepted 29 July 2011. Available online 12 October 2011.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.suponc.2011.07.005, How to Cite or Link Using DOI
Increasing evidence points to the theory of planned behavior as a useful framework to understand physical activity behavior in cancer patients.
Objective
Our primary aim was to examine the demographic, medical, and social–cognitive correlates of physical activity in palliative cancer patients.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to advanced cancer patients aged 18 years or older with a clinician-estimated life expectancy of less than 12 months and Palliative Performance Scale >30%, from outpatient palliative care, oncology clinics, and palliative home care.
Results
Fifty participants were recruited. Correlates of total physical activity levels were affective attitude (r = 0.36, P = .011), self-efficacy (r = 0.36, P = .010), and intention (r = 0.30, P = .034). Participants who reported 60 minutes or more of total physical activity daily reported significantly higher affective attitude (M = 0.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26–1.6, P = .008) and self-efficacy (M = 0.8, 95% CI 0.0–1.5, P = .046). Participants <60 years of age (M = 343, 95% CI −7 to 693, P = .054) and who were normal or underweight (M = 333, 95% CI −14 to 680, P = .059) reported higher weekly minutes of total physical activity.
Limitations
Our small sample may not be representative of the total palliative cancer population.
Conclusions
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Original research
Determinants of Physical Activity in Palliative Cancer Patients: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Sonya S. Lowe, MD, MSc
,
,
Sharon M. Watanabe, MD,
Vickie E. Baracos, PhD,
Kerry S. Courneya, PhD
Department of Symptom Control and Palliative Care, The Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, and the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Received 23 March 2011. Accepted 29 July 2011. Available online 12 October 2011.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.suponc.2011.07.005, How to Cite or Link Using DOI
Increasing evidence points to the theory of planned behavior as a useful framework to understand physical activity behavior in cancer patients.
Objective
Our primary aim was to examine the demographic, medical, and social–cognitive correlates of physical activity in palliative cancer patients.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to advanced cancer patients aged 18 years or older with a clinician-estimated life expectancy of less than 12 months and Palliative Performance Scale >30%, from outpatient palliative care, oncology clinics, and palliative home care.
Results
Fifty participants were recruited. Correlates of total physical activity levels were affective attitude (r = 0.36, P = .011), self-efficacy (r = 0.36, P = .010), and intention (r = 0.30, P = .034). Participants who reported 60 minutes or more of total physical activity daily reported significantly higher affective attitude (M = 0.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26–1.6, P = .008) and self-efficacy (M = 0.8, 95% CI 0.0–1.5, P = .046). Participants <60 years of age (M = 343, 95% CI −7 to 693, P = .054) and who were normal or underweight (M = 333, 95% CI −14 to 680, P = .059) reported higher weekly minutes of total physical activity.
Limitations
Our small sample may not be representative of the total palliative cancer population.
Conclusions
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Original research
Determinants of Physical Activity in Palliative Cancer Patients: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Sonya S. Lowe, MD, MSc
,
,
Sharon M. Watanabe, MD,
Vickie E. Baracos, PhD,
Kerry S. Courneya, PhD
Department of Symptom Control and Palliative Care, The Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, and the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Received 23 March 2011. Accepted 29 July 2011. Available online 12 October 2011.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.suponc.2011.07.005, How to Cite or Link Using DOI
Increasing evidence points to the theory of planned behavior as a useful framework to understand physical activity behavior in cancer patients.
Objective
Our primary aim was to examine the demographic, medical, and social–cognitive correlates of physical activity in palliative cancer patients.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to advanced cancer patients aged 18 years or older with a clinician-estimated life expectancy of less than 12 months and Palliative Performance Scale >30%, from outpatient palliative care, oncology clinics, and palliative home care.
Results
Fifty participants were recruited. Correlates of total physical activity levels were affective attitude (r = 0.36, P = .011), self-efficacy (r = 0.36, P = .010), and intention (r = 0.30, P = .034). Participants who reported 60 minutes or more of total physical activity daily reported significantly higher affective attitude (M = 0.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26–1.6, P = .008) and self-efficacy (M = 0.8, 95% CI 0.0–1.5, P = .046). Participants <60 years of age (M = 343, 95% CI −7 to 693, P = .054) and who were normal or underweight (M = 333, 95% CI −14 to 680, P = .059) reported higher weekly minutes of total physical activity.
Limitations
Our small sample may not be representative of the total palliative cancer population.
Conclusions
Affective attitude, self-efficacy, and intention were the strongest correlates of total physical activity levels, and younger and normal/underweight participants did more physical activity.
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores 40 participated clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores 40 participated clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Objective: Although depression is prevalent among cancer patients, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Quality of life is an important outcome in cancer patients and can be measured by questionnaires such as the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General version (FACT-G). The purpose of our study was to establish whether or not a group of items in FACT-G could be used as a screening tool for depression as well as for assessing quality of life.
Methods: A total of 62 chemotherapy patients (median age, 62 years [range, 22-81 years]; 55% women) completed Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and FACT-G questionnaires. Patients with ZSDS scores of 40 or more underwent clinical interviews for major depression. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the relationship between the ZSDS and FACT-G scores. FACT-G score results were then analyzed to evaluate if subsets of the FACT-G can be used as a screening tool for major depression.
Results: In all, 30 of 62 patients (48%) had ZSDS scores 40 and were ruled out for major depression, and 30 of the 32 patients with ZSDS scores 40 participated clinical interviews. Of those who were interviewed, 7 patients (23%) were confirmed to have major depression. Overall, the prevalence of major depression was 7 of 60 patients (12%; 95% CI: 5%-23%). The ZSDS and FACT-G scores had strong correlation (r -0.75). The composite score of six statements in FACT-G were found to have sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 81% in predicting major depression, using a cut-off value of 12 (range, 0-24). The six statements were, I have a lack of energy; I feel sad; I feel nervous; I am able to enjoy life; I am sleeping well; and I am enjoying the things I usually do for fun.
Conclusions: The prevalence of major depression among all participants was 12%. The ZSDS score and FACT-G score had strong correlation; the subsets of FACT-G may be useful as a screening tool for depression.
*For a PDF of the full article, click on the link to the left of this introduction.
Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subset of breast cancer. Health care cost and utilization data for TNBC are lacking.
Objective: We examined differences between metastatic TNBC and metastatic non-TNBC in survival and health care costs and utilization.
Methods: This retrospective analysis of metastatic TNBC (134 patients) and metastatic non-TNBC (445 patients) used a proprietary oncology registry, the Impact Intelligence Oncology Management registry database, linked with health insurance claims and social security mortality data.
Results: We found metastatic patients whose breast cancer is triple negative to be younger (56.49 vs 59.24 years), to be more likely to have recurrent disease (64.93 vs 45.39%), and to have greater mortality vs metastatic non-TNBC patients (67.16 vs 50.79%) (all P less than .05). Recurrent patients with metastatic TNBC have the highest risk of death (HR, 1.9; P less than .001), whereas survival was greatest for de novo metastatic non-TNBC. Patients with metastatic TNBC had more all-cause annual hospitalizations, more hospitalized days, and higher total costs vs metastatic non-TNBC. Annual payer’s total costs, annual payer’s inpatient costs, cancer-related hospitalizations, and cancer-related inpatient costs also were greater among patients with metastatic TNBC.
Limitations: While the study spans slightly more than 2 years, 5-10 years would have been preferable to achieve a full clinical profile of indexed patients. The database also omitted factors that potentially confound the results, such as race and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions: Metastatic TNBC is associated with significant burden of disease and higher health care utilization vs metastatic non-TNBC, which may be due in part to the aggressive clinical course of the disease...
* For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subset of breast cancer. Health care cost and utilization data for TNBC are lacking.
Objective: We examined differences between metastatic TNBC and metastatic non-TNBC in survival and health care costs and utilization.
Methods: This retrospective analysis of metastatic TNBC (134 patients) and metastatic non-TNBC (445 patients) used a proprietary oncology registry, the Impact Intelligence Oncology Management registry database, linked with health insurance claims and social security mortality data.
Results: We found metastatic patients whose breast cancer is triple negative to be younger (56.49 vs 59.24 years), to be more likely to have recurrent disease (64.93 vs 45.39%), and to have greater mortality vs metastatic non-TNBC patients (67.16 vs 50.79%) (all P less than .05). Recurrent patients with metastatic TNBC have the highest risk of death (HR, 1.9; P less than .001), whereas survival was greatest for de novo metastatic non-TNBC. Patients with metastatic TNBC had more all-cause annual hospitalizations, more hospitalized days, and higher total costs vs metastatic non-TNBC. Annual payer’s total costs, annual payer’s inpatient costs, cancer-related hospitalizations, and cancer-related inpatient costs also were greater among patients with metastatic TNBC.
Limitations: While the study spans slightly more than 2 years, 5-10 years would have been preferable to achieve a full clinical profile of indexed patients. The database also omitted factors that potentially confound the results, such as race and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions: Metastatic TNBC is associated with significant burden of disease and higher health care utilization vs metastatic non-TNBC, which may be due in part to the aggressive clinical course of the disease...
* For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subset of breast cancer. Health care cost and utilization data for TNBC are lacking.
Objective: We examined differences between metastatic TNBC and metastatic non-TNBC in survival and health care costs and utilization.
Methods: This retrospective analysis of metastatic TNBC (134 patients) and metastatic non-TNBC (445 patients) used a proprietary oncology registry, the Impact Intelligence Oncology Management registry database, linked with health insurance claims and social security mortality data.
Results: We found metastatic patients whose breast cancer is triple negative to be younger (56.49 vs 59.24 years), to be more likely to have recurrent disease (64.93 vs 45.39%), and to have greater mortality vs metastatic non-TNBC patients (67.16 vs 50.79%) (all P less than .05). Recurrent patients with metastatic TNBC have the highest risk of death (HR, 1.9; P less than .001), whereas survival was greatest for de novo metastatic non-TNBC. Patients with metastatic TNBC had more all-cause annual hospitalizations, more hospitalized days, and higher total costs vs metastatic non-TNBC. Annual payer’s total costs, annual payer’s inpatient costs, cancer-related hospitalizations, and cancer-related inpatient costs also were greater among patients with metastatic TNBC.
Limitations: While the study spans slightly more than 2 years, 5-10 years would have been preferable to achieve a full clinical profile of indexed patients. The database also omitted factors that potentially confound the results, such as race and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions: Metastatic TNBC is associated with significant burden of disease and higher health care utilization vs metastatic non-TNBC, which may be due in part to the aggressive clinical course of the disease...
* For a PDF of the full article, click in the link to the left of this introduction.
Documenting the Symptom Experience of Cancer Patients
Teresa L. Deshields PhD
,
, Patricia Potter RN, PhD, FAAN, Sarah Olsen RN, Jingxia Liu PhD, Linh Dye DMGT
Siteman Cancer Center; Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine; and Nursing Administration, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri
Received 11 January 2011; Accepted 9 June 2011. Available online 3 November 2011.
Abstract
Background
Cancer patients experience symptoms associated with their disease, treatment, and comorbidities. Symptom experience is complicated, reflecting symptom prevalence, frequency, and severity. Symptom burden is associated with treatment tolerance as well as patients' quality of life (QOL).
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to document the symptom experience and QOL of patients with commonly diagnosed cancers. The relationship between symptoms and QOL was also explored.
Methods
A convenience sample of patients with the five most common cancers at a comprehensive cancer center completed surveys assessing symptom experience (Memorial Symptom Assessment Survey) and QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy). Patients completed surveys at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months thereafter. This article describes the study's baseline findings.
Results
Surveys were completed by 558 cancer patients with breast, colorectal, gynecologic, lung, or prostate cancer. Patients reported an average of 9.1 symptoms, with symptom experience varying by cancer type. The mean overall QOL for the total sample was 85.1, with results differing by cancer type. Prostate cancer patients reported the lowest symptom burden and the highest QOL.
Limitations
The sample was limited in terms of racial diversity. Because of the method of recruitment, baseline data were collected 6–8 months after diagnosis, meaning that participants were at various stages of treatment.
Conclusions
The symptom experience of cancer patients varies widely depending on cancer type. Nevertheless, most patients report symptoms, regardless of whether or not they are currently receiving treatment. Patients' QOL is inversely related to their symptom burden.
Conflicts of interest: All authors have completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest. Dr. DeShields received reimbursement for consultancy services, honoraria, development of education presentations including service on speakers' bureaus, and for travel/accommodations expenses from Lilly Oncology. All other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.
Correspondence to: Teresa L. Deshields, PhD, Siteman Cancer Center, 4921 Parkview Place, MS: 90-35-703, St. Louis, MO 63110; telephone: (314) 454-7474; fax: (314) 362-1904
Documenting the Symptom Experience of Cancer Patients
Teresa L. Deshields PhD
,
, Patricia Potter RN, PhD, FAAN, Sarah Olsen RN, Jingxia Liu PhD, Linh Dye DMGT
Siteman Cancer Center; Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine; and Nursing Administration, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri
Received 11 January 2011; Accepted 9 June 2011. Available online 3 November 2011.
Abstract
Background
Cancer patients experience symptoms associated with their disease, treatment, and comorbidities. Symptom experience is complicated, reflecting symptom prevalence, frequency, and severity. Symptom burden is associated with treatment tolerance as well as patients' quality of life (QOL).
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to document the symptom experience and QOL of patients with commonly diagnosed cancers. The relationship between symptoms and QOL was also explored.
Methods
A convenience sample of patients with the five most common cancers at a comprehensive cancer center completed surveys assessing symptom experience (Memorial Symptom Assessment Survey) and QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy). Patients completed surveys at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months thereafter. This article describes the study's baseline findings.
Results
Surveys were completed by 558 cancer patients with breast, colorectal, gynecologic, lung, or prostate cancer. Patients reported an average of 9.1 symptoms, with symptom experience varying by cancer type. The mean overall QOL for the total sample was 85.1, with results differing by cancer type. Prostate cancer patients reported the lowest symptom burden and the highest QOL.
Limitations
The sample was limited in terms of racial diversity. Because of the method of recruitment, baseline data were collected 6–8 months after diagnosis, meaning that participants were at various stages of treatment.
Conclusions
The symptom experience of cancer patients varies widely depending on cancer type. Nevertheless, most patients report symptoms, regardless of whether or not they are currently receiving treatment. Patients' QOL is inversely related to their symptom burden.
Conflicts of interest: All authors have completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest. Dr. DeShields received reimbursement for consultancy services, honoraria, development of education presentations including service on speakers' bureaus, and for travel/accommodations expenses from Lilly Oncology. All other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.
Correspondence to: Teresa L. Deshields, PhD, Siteman Cancer Center, 4921 Parkview Place, MS: 90-35-703, St. Louis, MO 63110; telephone: (314) 454-7474; fax: (314) 362-1904
Documenting the Symptom Experience of Cancer Patients
Teresa L. Deshields PhD
,
, Patricia Potter RN, PhD, FAAN, Sarah Olsen RN, Jingxia Liu PhD, Linh Dye DMGT
Siteman Cancer Center; Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine; and Nursing Administration, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri
Received 11 January 2011; Accepted 9 June 2011. Available online 3 November 2011.
Abstract
Background
Cancer patients experience symptoms associated with their disease, treatment, and comorbidities. Symptom experience is complicated, reflecting symptom prevalence, frequency, and severity. Symptom burden is associated with treatment tolerance as well as patients' quality of life (QOL).
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to document the symptom experience and QOL of patients with commonly diagnosed cancers. The relationship between symptoms and QOL was also explored.
Methods
A convenience sample of patients with the five most common cancers at a comprehensive cancer center completed surveys assessing symptom experience (Memorial Symptom Assessment Survey) and QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy). Patients completed surveys at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months thereafter. This article describes the study's baseline findings.
Results
Surveys were completed by 558 cancer patients with breast, colorectal, gynecologic, lung, or prostate cancer. Patients reported an average of 9.1 symptoms, with symptom experience varying by cancer type. The mean overall QOL for the total sample was 85.1, with results differing by cancer type. Prostate cancer patients reported the lowest symptom burden and the highest QOL.
Limitations
The sample was limited in terms of racial diversity. Because of the method of recruitment, baseline data were collected 6–8 months after diagnosis, meaning that participants were at various stages of treatment.
Conclusions
The symptom experience of cancer patients varies widely depending on cancer type. Nevertheless, most patients report symptoms, regardless of whether or not they are currently receiving treatment. Patients' QOL is inversely related to their symptom burden.
Conflicts of interest: All authors have completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest. Dr. DeShields received reimbursement for consultancy services, honoraria, development of education presentations including service on speakers' bureaus, and for travel/accommodations expenses from Lilly Oncology. All other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.
Correspondence to: Teresa L. Deshields, PhD, Siteman Cancer Center, 4921 Parkview Place, MS: 90-35-703, St. Louis, MO 63110; telephone: (314) 454-7474; fax: (314) 362-1904
