Utilization of Internet-based survivorship care plans by survivors of gynecologic cancers

Abstract

5592 Background: Survivors of gynecologic cancers may be at risk for cancer-related late-effects, including fatigue, pain, second malignancy risk, and sexual side effects. The Institute of Medicine has recommended survivorship care plans (SCP) for all cancer survivors. Methods: A program for creation of SCP, OncoLife, is publicly accessible through OncoLink ( www.oncolink.org ), serving over 3.9 million pages/month to 385,000 unique IP addresses (August 2008). Users responding to 17 queries regarding demographics, diagnosis, and treatment receive comprehensive, individualized guidelines for future care. User data is maintained anonymously and securely, with IRB approval. Results: From May 2007-November 2008, 3,343 individuals completed OncoLife surveys. Survivors of gynecologic cancers represented 8% (n = 272; 58% ovarian, 24% endometrial, 19% cervical). Median ages at diagnosis of ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer were 50, 51, and 35 yrs, respectively, and median current ages 53, 55, and 47. Surgery was undergone by 98% of ovarian, 97% of endometrial, and 81% of cervical cancer survivors, and chemotherapy/ radiotherapy by 91%/12%, 51%/59%, and 67%/67%, respectively. Known genetic syndromes were reported by 13% of ovarian cancer survivors, compared to < 1% of endometrial/ cervix cancer survivors (p = 0.0006). Of all gynecologic cancer survivors, 53% reported being followed by an oncologist, 14% a primary care provider (PCP), and 27% both. Only 7% had received survivorship information previously. Conclusions: Most survivors of gynecologic malignancies have undergone multimodality treatment and may particularly benefit from SCP guidelines. Most do not receive follow-up care from both an oncologist and PCP, and few have received survivorship information. Gynecologic cancer survivors appear willing to use this tool; future iterations will focus on further individualization of guidelines, and improving access to underrepresented populations. No significant financial relationships to disclose.