Long-term Survival After Cancer: A Scoping Review of the Health Care Landscape in Germany

Abstract

Abstract Background Cancer remains a global health concern, with a significant increase in new cases projected in the coming years. Although cancer treatment and diagnosis have advanced, leading to improved survival, survivors often face complex physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. The objective of this scoping review is to provide an overview of the current landscape of specialized long-term survivorship care services in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) with a focus on vulnerable groups. Methods The scoping review involves two search approaches: a manual search performed by two review authors and a systematic search performed by an information specialist following Scoping Review guidance. The protocol was published on the OSF platform. The systematic search was conducted in databases such as LIVIVIO, MEDLINE and Scopus. The manual search involves identifying key categories of survivorship services and conducting online searches based on these categories in duplicate. Data extraction and synthesis is conducted using EPPI-Reviewer software, and focuses on services characteristics, patient demographics, program format, and accessibility. Results The study has identified more than 300 survivorship care services across North Rhine-Westphalia. According to preliminary results some services offer comprehensive care, while others have significant gaps, particularly in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups. One example of these gaps is the lack of tailored services specifically designed for people with a migration background. Most of the services are not available in multiple languages or gender-specific oriented. The results will be presented on the congress in detail. Conclusions This scoping review underscores the importance of tailored survivorship care, especially for vulnerable groups. Public health actions should focus on addressing disparities in access to survivorship services, enhancing existing programs, and developing new policies to support cancer survivors. Key messages • Effective survivorship care requires attention to vulnerable groups. • The care of long-term cancer survivors should receive more attention in research.