Abstract
In the present work, we set out to comprehensively describe the unmet supportive care and information needs of lung cancer patients. This cross-sectional study used the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34 (34 items) and an informational needs survey (8 items). Patients with primary lung cancer in any phase of survivorship were included. Demographic data and treatment details were collected from the medical charts of participants. The unmet needs were determined overall and by domain. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with greater unmet needs. From August 2013 to February 2014, 89 patients [44 (49%) men; median age: 71 years (range: 44-89 years)] were recruited. The mean number of unmet needs was 8 (range: 0-34), and 69 patients (78%) reported at least 1 unmet need. The need proportions by domain were 52% health system and information, 66% psychological, 58% physical, 24% patient care, and 20% sexuality. The top 2 unmet needs were "fears of the cancer spreading" [n = 44 of 84 (52%)] and "lack of energy/tiredness" [n = 42 of 88 (48%)]. On multivariable analysis, more advanced disease and higher MD Anderson Symptom Inventory scores were associated with increased unmet needs. Patients reported that the most desired information needs were those for information on managing symptoms such as fatigue (78%), shortness of breath (77%), and cough (63%). Unmet supportive care needs are common in lung cancer patients, with some patients experiencing a very high number of unmet needs. Further work is needed to develop resources to address those needs.
Highlights
Lung cancer is the 2nd most common cancer and the most common cause of cancer death in North America, with an estimated 224,210 cases in the United States and 26,100 cases in Canada in 20141,2
Unmet supportive care needs are common in lung cancer patients, with some patients experiencing a very high number of unmet needs
Our study characterizes the nature of unmet supportive care and information needs in lung cancer patients and the relationships of those needs with demographic characteristics, quality of life, symptoms, and functioning
Summary
Lung cancer is the 2nd most common cancer and the most common cause of cancer death in North America, with an estimated 224,210 cases in the United States and 26,100 cases in Canada in 20141,2. A cancer survivor can be defined as any individual with cancer from the point of diagnosis to treatment and beyond, comprising the entire patient journey[8]. Advances in diagnosis and treatment have resulted in a growing prevalence of lung cancer survivors with potentially unique and multiple supportive care needs[9]. Supportive care can be defined as “care that helps a person with cancer and their family cope with cancer and its treatment, from diagnosis through treatment and cure, continuing through illness or death, and bereavement”[10]. Assistance with transportation, provision of health information, food preparation and other activities of daily living (adls), and psychological support and counselling services[11]. Unmet supportive care needs can occur across the supportive care domains of information, symptom management, psychosocial support, and support for daily activities[12]
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