AGE-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE IN CANCER SURVIVORS

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine age-related differences in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) between younger (age 18–65) and older cancer survivors (age 65+). Data used for this study were drawn from the 2014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a cross-sectional, state-based, annual random-digit-dialed telephone survey of non-institutionalized adults. All respondents who had completed the core questionnaire and cancer survivorship module were included (n=5,656). Demographic data show that 60% of participants were females and 40% were males. Approximately 55% were married and 45% were separated, divorced, widowed, or never married. 49% reported having a high school degree or lower. T-tests indicate that older cancer survivors had poorer physical HRQOL than younger cancer survivors; however, they were more likely to fare better mentally. Multiple regression results suggest that cancer survivors who exercised and were married had significantly better HRQOL. Survivors with greater co-morbidities and those who had not completed treatment reported worse HRQOL. Findings indicate that physical activity and social support could help improve survivors’ HRQOL. Special attention should be paid to survivors who have co-existing conditions and those who have not completed treatment.