Experiences Of Cancer Survivors Research Articles

Qualitative exploration of sexual dysfunction and associated coping strategies among Iranian prostate cancer survivors.

Our understanding of the experiences of prostate cancer survivors regarding their sexual life and related issues remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore sexual dysfunction and associated coping strategies among Iranian prostate cancer survivors. A qualitative study was undertaken. Participants were 15 Iranian prostate cancer survivors chosen using purposeful sampling. Data collection involved conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews, followed by the utilization of the conventional qualitative content analysis method for data analysis. Three themes were developed: (a) suspension of sexual life-treatment for prostate cancer significantly impacted participants' sexual lives; (b) emotional resilience and psychological coping strategies-various psychological strategies were used to tackle sexual dysfunction; (c) efforts to regain sexual function-several strategies were applied to enhance sexual performance. Our study findings provide insights into the experiences of prostate cancer survivors and subsequent shifts in their sexual dynamics and coping with the disease. Healthcare providers should actively identify patients' concerns and develop culturally tailored care strategies to address sexual challenges and improve coping among prostate cancer survivors.

Abstract PO2-11-12: The power of storytelling to heal, build community, and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors

Abstract Background: The BRIDGE community focus group was designed to support and empower current and former Black breast cancer patients. The overarching goals of the focus group were to provide a mechanism for participants to amplify their voices through storytelling, foster healing, and establish a supportive community. Additionally, the research team aimed to gather qualitative data on social support, treatment adherence barriers, interactions with medical providers, and experiences with race and racism within and outside of the healthcare system. Approach: The focus group consisted of six sessions, each with a specific agenda and activities. Participants were encouraged to keep journals throughout the program. Each session began with an icebreaker and journal discussion. Session-specific activities were designed to encourage self-reflection, exploration of personal identities, and discussion of fears. These topics were explored through creative outlets such as role-play, storyboards, and jewelry-making. Each session ended with a unifying affirmation and opportunity for fellowship. Results: We enrolled 10 Black women previously diagnosed with breast cancer and provided a safe space for them to reflect on their breast cancer journey, associated fears, and the role of race in their healthcare experience. Participants discussed positive and negative experiences with healthcare providers, highlighting the knowledge and access gaps that often exist in marginalized communities. The program also provided insights into the multi-level concept of support and its impact on breast cancer outcomes. Participants discussed the positive aspects of familial and community support but identified several areas where system and structural supports may have improved their outcomes. After completing all six sessions, women reported an improvement in their overall self-actualization and purpose—with several describing their time in the program as ‘life-changing’. Notably, the focus group facilitated deep connection and friendship among participants and improved general wellness and satisfaction. Discussion: Through the sharing of personal narratives and supportive discussions, the focus group created a safe environment where participants felt empowered to express their emotions, address challenges, and dismantle fears related to breast cancer mortality. The BRIDGE research team will summarize the themes that emerged across sessions to share with scientific, clinical, and community stakeholders. In parallel, they will explore opportunities for continued community building and support for participants beyond the focus group sessions. Overall, this storytelling focus group showcased the significance of amplifying the voices of historically marginalized groups, providing support, and fostering community. The insights gained have the potential to inform future interventions and support services for Black breast cancer survivors, addressing their unique needs and challenges and ultimately improving cancer health equity. Citation Format: Lauren McCullough, Cynthia Young, Chava Bowden, Madison Gardner, Breanna Berry, Alexix Smith, Jacquelyn Anthony Bryant. The power of storytelling to heal, build community, and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-11-12.

Abstract PO3-27-06: Investigating The Association Between Exercise and Quality of Life Among Breast Cancer Survivors in The Black Women’s Health Study

Abstract Background: Black breast cancer survivors (BCS) experience suboptimal quality of life (QoL) compared to White BCS. QoL is a multi-dimensional concept focused on different aspects of wellbeing. Exercise (a subset of physical activity) has been shown to improve QoL in cancer survivors. However, there is limited evidence on the benefits of exercise in relation to QoL among Black BCS and warrants further investigation. Purpose: To examine the association between exercise intensity (e.g., moderate activity) and multiple domains of QoL (e.g., physical wellbeing) among BCS in the Black Women’s Health Study (BWHS). Methods: The BWHS is the largest prospective cohort study following 59,000 Black women in the United States since 1995. Self-reported questionnaires are distributed every two years to obtain current health information, including lifestyle factors and disease occurrence. The 2019 survey data, completed by 3,608 Black BCS, were used to address the primary aim. Of the 3,608 Black BCS, 1,085 females were eligible to participate in this cross-sectional study. The primary predictors were moderate and vigorous exercise intensity. The outcomes (physical, mental, functional, social functioning, and financial wellbeing) were categorized as excellent, very good or good, and fair or poor health. The covariates were marital status, occupation, education, age, body mass index, time since diagnosis, breast cancer stage, and general health. Adjusted multinomial logistic regressions were performed to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the associations with each predictor. Multiple imputation was used to address missing data. Results: At baseline, the majority of the BCS were 64 years or younger (99%), premenopausal (69%), employed (95%), and had more than a high school degree (86%). About 50% of the participants were married or living as married. There were significant and positive associations between exercise intensity and QoL (p< .05). Compared to BCS who reported little or no exercise (< 60 minutes/week), those who reported at least 60 minutes/week of vigorous exercise had greater odds of experiencing excellent QoL including financial wellbeing (OR=1.70, 95% CI: 1.08-2.67), functional wellbeing (OR=3.64, 95% CI: 1.56-8.49), social functioning (OR=4.56, 95% CI: 2.42-8.60), and physical wellbeing (OR=4.26, 95% CI: 2.12-8.52). Similarly, BCS who engaged in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise/week had increased odds of reporting excellent social functioning (OR=2.59, 95% CI: 1.41-4.76) and functional wellbeing (OR=4.40, 95% CI: 1.89-10.24) than those who engaged in less than 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise. Conclusions: Black BCS who engage in certain durations (e.g., 150 minutes/week) and exercise intensities (e.g., moderate activity) tend to have better QoL. These findings may help to build upon the relevance of exercise in the context of supportive care for racial and ethnic minority cancer survivors and encourage healthcare professionals to assess the frequency, intensity, time, and type of exercise during routine or follow-up care. Future longitudinal studies are needed to examine the proposed associations among Black BCS and to compare the current study findings. Citation Format: Natasha Burse, Chris Wiesen, Todd Schwartz, Shawn Kneipp, Ashley Leak Bryant. Investigating The Association Between Exercise and Quality of Life Among Breast Cancer Survivors in The Black Women’s Health Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-27-06.

The experiences of Chinese colorectal cancer survivors in marital intimacy after ostomy creation: A qualitative study.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent cancer globally. The disease and its treatment significantly impact marital intimacy, particularly among individuals who have undergone ostomy creation. Therefore, it is necessary to explore their experiences. This study aimed to explore the experiences of colorectal cancer survivors in marital intimacy after ostomy creation and clarify the domain and sub-domain of marital intimacy in CRC survivors with ostomy. This study used a qualitative descriptive design, and participants were selected by purposive sampling from two hospitals in Henan province, China. Sixteen patients participated in this research, and the data were collected through an in-depth interview from June 27 to September 27, 2023. Colaizzi's method was used to analyze the data. Five themes emerged from data analysis, including physical intimacy, psychological intimacy, social intimacy, spiritual intimacy, and operational intimacy. By profiling the experiences of CRC survivors in marital intimacy after ostomy creation, the domain and sub-domain of marital intimacy were clarified in this cohort and revealed that ostomy had a severe effect on marital intimacy among colorectal cancer survivors. The results from this study could be used by nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals to design specific interventions covering all aspects of marital intimacy. Also, the findings will guide the development of a particular instrument for marital intimacy in CRC survivors with ostomy.

Postradiation trismus in head and neck cancer survivors: a qualitative study of effects on life, rehabilitation, used coping strategies and support from the healthcare system.

This study aimed to explore the experiences of head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors with postradiation trismus, specifically how oncological treatment affected their lives, rehabilitation, use of coping strategies, and healthcare experiences. A qualitative descriptive approach was used and semi-structured interviews of 10 HNC survivors with postradiation trismus were conducted 6-30 months after completing oncological treatment. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by qualitative content analysis. The analysis of interviews yielded four main categories: Bodily symptoms, Effects on life, Support from the healthcare system, and Strategies to handle life and symptoms. Participants reported ongoing problems with xerostomia, dysgeusia, eating, and limited physical fitness. Pain related to trismus was not a major issue in this cohort. Participants expressed limitations in their social lives due to their eating difficulties, yet a sense of thankfulness for life and overall satisfaction with the healthcare they received. Psychological and practical coping strategies developed by the participants were also revealed. The results highlight areas of unmet need among HNC survivors that healthcare providers can target by establishing multi-professional teams dedicated to individualizing post-cancer rehabilitation care.

Lived Experiences of Breast Cancer Survivors and Renal Transplant Recipients: A Comparative Phenomenological Study

Lived Experiences of Breast Cancer Survivors and Renal Transplant Recipients: A Comparative Phenomenological Study

COVID-19 vaccination, infection, and symptoms among cancer survivors in the United States.

The experiences of cancer survivors with the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States during 2021 and 2022, when vaccinations became widely available, are largely undocumented. Using nationally representative survey data in 2021 and 2022, we found that compared with adults without a cancer history, cancer survivors were more likely to have at least 2 COVID-19 vaccines (2021: 66.6% vs 62.3%, P = .003; 2022: 77.0% vs 72.4%, P < .001) and as likely to have a COVID-19 infection history (2021: 14.1% vs 14.2%, P = .93; 2022: 39.9% vs 39.3%, P = .55) but, once infected, were more likely to develop moderate to severe symptoms (2021: 62.5% vs 54.2%, P = .02; 54.5% vs 61.3%; P = .13). Among cancer survivors, younger age, lower educational attainment, lack of health insurance, and more comorbidities were statistically significantly associated with lower vaccination rates (P < .001). Among infected cancer survivors, being female and younger were associated with higher likelihood of developing moderate to severe symptoms (P < .001). Our findings suggest tailored efforts to prevent and control COVID-19 infections for cancer survivors.

Exploring the links of skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity, physical functionality, and mental well-being of cancer survivors

Physical impairments following cancer treatment have been linked with the toxic effects of these treatments on muscle mass and strength, through their deleterious effects on skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity. Accordingly, we designed the present study to explore relationships of skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity with physical performance and perceived cancer-related psychosocial experiences of cancer survivors. We assessed skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity using in vivo phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS), measuring the postexercise phosphocreatine resynthesis time constant, τPCr, in 11 post-chemotherapy participants aged 34–70 years. During the MRS procedure, participants performed rapid ballistic knee extension exercise to deplete phosphocreatine (PCr); hence, measuring the primary study outcome, which was the recovery rate of PCr (τPCr). Patient-reported outcomes of psychosocial symptoms and well-being were assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System and the 36-Item Short Form health survey (SF-36). Rapid bioenergetic recovery, reflected through a smaller value of τPCr was associated with worse depression (rho ρ = − 0.69, p = 0.018, and Cohen’s d = − 1.104), anxiety (ρ = − 0.61, p = .046, d = − 0.677), and overall mental health (ρ = 0.74, p = 0.010, d = 2.198) scores, but better resilience (ρ = 0.65, p = 0.029), and coping-self efficacy (ρ = 0.63, p = 0.04) scores. This is the first study to link skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity with subjective reports of cancer-related behavioral toxicities. Further investigations are warranted to confirm these findings probing into the role of disease status and personal attributes in these preliminary results.

Do Contemporary Cancer Survivors Experience Better Quality of Life? Evaluating a Decade of SEER Medicare Health Outcomes Survey Data.

A cancer diagnosis may have deleterious effects on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) as adults age. This study examined differences in HRQOL between cancer and matched noncancer Medicare beneficiaries over 65, within and across two time periods. We used novel matching methods on data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (MHOS) data resource. We matched SEER-MHOS respondents with cancer from a recent period (2015-2019) to respondents with cancer from an earlier period (2008-2012). We then matched these two cohorts, without replacement, to contemporary cohorts without cancer diagnoses. We estimated Veteran's RAND 12-Item Short Form Survey Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores for all cohorts. Our analysis found significantly higher mean MCS scores in the recent period for those with cancer relative to the recent noncancer control group. Breast and lung cancer presented positive and statistically significant trends. We found statistically insignificant differences in PCS scores between the two time periods. No cancer sites had different PCS scores over time compared with the comparison group. Mental health for those with cancer improved more between 2008 and 2019 than a matched noncancer comparison group. Physical health remained stable across time. These findings highlight the importance of including a matched noncancer group when evaluating HRQOL outcomes. SEER-MHOS respondents with cancer report stable PCS scores across 15 years of data and higher MCS scores relative to noncancer controls.

We Are Done! Now What? Exploring End of Treatment Needs of Childhood Cancer Survivors and Their Parents.

Background: Increased childhood cancer survival rates have spurred a new body of research pertaining to the cancer-survivorship continuum. Literature suggests a lack of research and guidelines for care at the end of treatment (EOT). To improve the transition to survivorship and determine any posttreatment challenges, this study explored the experiences of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), parents/caregivers, and pediatric oncology health care professionals (HCPs) at EOT. Method: This study employed a mixed methods design. EOT Questionnaires were completed by CCSs and parents/caregivers within 6 months of completing treatment, and by pediatric oncology HCPs. Results: A total of 75 CCSs and parents/caregivers and 21 HCPs completed the study. The majority of parents/caregivers (78%) and older CCSs (94%) recalled having an EOT "meeting." Most were satisfied with the meeting, but described unexpected worries/problems following EOT. Family members stating they were "very satisfied" with the EOT meeting increased significantly relative to the number of EOT topics addressed. In contrast, the omission of certain psychosocial discussion topics negatively correlated with satisfaction. Oncologists provided the majority of EOT services, with infrequent provision by other HCPs. Less than 20% of HCPs characterized families as "very satisfied" with EOT services and suggested improvements to meet families' needs. Discussion: This study found unmet psychosocial and anticipatory guidance needs, indicating a lack of preparedness. The results suggest that end of cancer treatment requires a more standardized, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary approach. Enhanced education and support services are needed to promote the successful navigation of all families through this period of transition.

Changes in Symptom Clusters Among Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors in Technology-Based Coaching Intervention.

Limited research studies have focused on examining the impact of technology-based interventions in changing symptom clusters among Asian American breast cancer survivors. The aim of this study was to understand the longitudinal impact of a technology-based program on the symptom cluster experience of Asian American breast cancer survivors. This is a secondary data analysis that used exploratory factor analysis at each time point (baseline, post-1 month, post-3 months) for the control and intervention groups (N = 199). The number of symptom clusters remained the same, and the same symptoms remained in similar clusters across the 2 groups. The control group experienced psychological cluster, fatigue cluster, and neck/skin cluster at baseline; psychological cluster, fatigue/dizzy cluster, and neck/skin cluster at post-1 month; and psychological cluster, fatigue/dizzy cluster, and somatic cluster at post-3 months. The intervention group experienced psychological cluster, neck cluster, and appetite/itching cluster at baseline; somatic/anticholinergic cluster, psychological/sexual cluster, and appetite cluster at post-1 month; and psychological cluster, neck cluster, and itching cluster at post-3 months. The psychological and neck clusters shared similar core symptoms of feeling nervous, dry mouth, and cough between the control and intervention groups. The different symptom cluster experiences may be due to the technology-based intervention where the intervention group receives individual/group coaching/support that may have changed symptom clusters over time. Yet, the true efficacy of the intervention on symptom clusters warrants further investigation. Clinicians should understand the changes in symptom clusters as well as the presence of core symptoms and take a targeted symptom cluster approach in clinical settings.

A Better Me? An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Experiences of Female Cancer Survivors' Heightened Preoccupation With 'Healthy Eating'.

The end of treatment is known to be a particularly challenging time for many cancer survivors as they transition to coping with their condition independently. They may engage in health behaviours, such as implementing drastic dietary changes to manage the side effects of treatment they have undergone or as a way to assuage their anxiety. Understanding cancer survivors' heightened preoccupation with healthy eating is therefore fundamental to our understanding of the psychological phenomenology of cancer. This study explored how people who have developed a heightened preoccupation with healthy eating after a cancer diagnosis make sense of this change. Eight participants were recruited through social media. They each engaged in a semi-structured interview over Zoom concerning their changed relationship with food following cancer. Their accounts were then analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The article focuses on four group experiential themes arising from the analysis: Open and Enlightened About Food, Becoming a Better Me?, Developing a New Passion for Nutrition, and Becoming Consumed by Food. The themes that arose from the analysis speak to the experience of becoming a 'better' person from having lived through cancer and developed a new relationship with food. Instead of seeing illness as a loss, several of the participants reported a positive shift linked to having developed an interest in healthy eating, something which became central to their identity. However, others experienced their new engagement with healthy eating as a preoccupation that engulfed them. These findings are discussed in light of existing theory and research, and their clinical implications are outlined. Areas for future research are also suggested.

Multimorbidity clusters in adults 50 years or older with and without a history of cancer: National Health Interview Survey, 2018

BackgroundMultimorbidity is increasing among adults in the United States. Yet limited research has examined multimorbidity clusters in persons aged 50 years and older with and without a history of cancer. An increased understanding of multimorbidity clusters may improve the cancer survivorship experience for survivors with multimorbidity.MethodsWe identified 7580 adults aged 50 years and older with 2 or more diseases—including 811 adults with a history of primary breast, colorectal, cervical, prostate, or lung cancer—from the 2018 National Health Interview Survey. Exploratory factor analysis identified clusters of multimorbidity among cancer survivors and individuals without a history of cancer (controls). Frequency tables and chi-square tests were performed to determine overall differences in sociodemographic characteristics, health-related characteristics, and multimorbidity between groups.ResultsCancer survivors reported a higher prevalence of having 4 or more diseases compared to controls (57% and 38%, respectively). Our analysis identified 6 clusters for cancer survivors and 4 clusters for controls. Three clusters (pulmonary, cardiac, and liver) included the same diseases for cancer survivors and controls.ConclusionsDiseases clustered differently across adults ≥ 50 years of age with and without a history of cancer. Findings from this study may be used to inform clinical care, increase the development and dissemination of multilevel public health interventions, escalate system improvements, and initiate innovative policy reform.

Experiences of cancer survivors returning to work decision-making: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies.

Return to work for cancer survivors (CSs) may be challenging, and there is a research gap in integrating the relevant experiences of the return-to-work decision-making process for CSs. Our aim was to synthesize existing qualitative research that integrates the dynamic experiences of CSs in the return-to-work decision-making process and highlights the factors influencing the return-to-work decisions of CSs. We retrieved qualitative studies on a relevant theme published in the PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases since construction to December 2023. Literature screening, quality evaluation, and data analysis followed the PRISMA, Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool (2016), and thematic analysis methods to ensure study reliability. The study was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023429623). Ten articles were included, and six key outcomes were identified based on Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) integration: points of concern for individuals, sense of self-efficacy, outcome expectations, work perception and belonging, medical advice and guidance, and effects of the external reactions. The decision-making process for CSs to return to work is affected by various personal and external factors. Effectively addressing personal appearance, financial, and emotional issues can enhance self-efficacy of CSs. Improving external perceptions of cancer patients and enhancing social support in the workplace and medical settings can help CSs make informed decisions regarding their return to work. The decision of CSs to return to work is a result of integrating personal, job, and medical care considerations. These findings contribute to the development of future interventions for CSs' return-to-work decisions that target an array of potential factors.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of promoted psychological resilience intervention for oesophageal cancer patients in rural China: A randomized controlled study

PurposeThe objective of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the effectiveness of promoted resilience intervention to facilitate resilience, self-efficacy, coping mode, and social support for oesophageal cancer patients in rural China. MethodsA two-arm, parallel design, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted in a comprehensive tertiary hospital in Anhui from August 2021 to September 2022. A total of 82 oesophageal cancer patients were assigned to two groups via blocked randomization. The intervention group (n = 41) received the Promoted Psychological Resilience Intervention based on survivors' experiences and the control group (n = 41) received routine care. Study data were collected using the sociodemographic information, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Strategies Used by People to Promote Health, Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire, and Perceived Social Support Scale. ResultsThe groups were well-balanced at baseline. Post-intervention and three months after intervention, the resilience, self-efficacy, acceptance-resignation, and social support were all significantly different in the intervention and control groups (p < 0.05 for each). The main effect of group, time, and the interaction between group and time was statistically significant in the scores of resilience, self-efficacy, acceptance-resignation, and social support, except for the factor of self-determination and friends support (p < 0.05 for each). ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that an intervention program based on the experiences of long-term oesophageal cancer survivors can promote patients' resilience.

A WAY OF COMMUNICATING...WHICH DOESN’T MAKE THEM FEEL THREATENED: CANCER SURVIVORSHIP IN AGING BLACK/LATINX PEOPLE

Abstract Background. About 2 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the US and minoritized groups such as Black and Latinx people share a significant burden of the disease. To better understand how to improve the quality of life of an increasingly diverse population of aging cancer survivors, this study explored the cancer survivorship experiences of older adults in Black and Latinx people in the U.S. Method. A qualitative descriptive approach was used on a sample of 17 participants (Mage 64 years), 6 Black and 12 Latinx cancer survivors, at various stages of cancer treatment. Open-ended, semi-structured interviews were administered to the participants. We used reflexive thematic analysis for data analysis. Results. The following themes were identified from the analysis: cancer is (not) stigmatizing, effects of race/ethnicity on survivorship, and being an immigrant and survivorship. These themes enable a better perception of enablers and barriers to resilience among Black and Latinx cancer survivors. Conclusion. The findings of this study will increase the knowledge on sociocultural factors that influence cancer survivorship experiences in the US. The implications on resilience and access to cancer care will be discussed.

INTERDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVES ON THE INTERSECTION OF CANCER AND COGNITIVE DECLINE

Abstract The population of older cancer survivors in the United States is rapidly growing. The long-term cognitive aging of older cancer survivors is not well understood, as large-scale epidemiological studies often show a paradoxical inverse association between cancer history and subsequent dementia; yet cancer survivors often experience cognitive impairment symptoms in the short-term following treatment. Further, the cancer diagnosis and care experiences of older adults experiencing cognitive impairments or dementia warrant further investigation as these are important issues for health care quality and equity amongst older adults experiencing cognitive limitations who are at risk for cancer. The novel findings presented in this interdisciplinary symposium will help to clarify the cognitive aging experiences of older cancer survivors, using innovative data sources. First, Brown will discuss the relationship between cancer and subjective cognitive decline, using the nationally representative Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. Second, Westrick will present the associations between cancer treatment types and subsequent mortality and cognitive decline for survivors of breast, prostate, and kidney cancer among Medicare beneficiaries in the nationally representative US Health and Retirement Study. Third, also using data from Medicare beneficiaries in the US Health and Retirement Study combined with a mixed-methods physician survey, Mullins will discuss differences in cancer treatment recommendations and receipt for older adults with a pre-existing cognitive impairment who are diagnosed with cancer. Finally, Todorova will take a deeper dive into the potential mechanisms linking cancer treatment with cognitive decline, by examining a biomarker of inflammation and cardiovascular toxicity among patients receiving doxorubicin. This is a collaborative symposium between the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias and Cancer and Aging Interest Groups.

HIV KNOWLEDGE AND INFORMATION ACCESS AMONG FEMALE CANCER SURVIVORS IN NIGERIA

Abstract While Nigeria remains heavily burdened by HIV, especially among Nigerian women, there is also a rapidly increasing incidence and prevalence of cancer among aging women in Nigeria. growing. A body of research posits that HIV can be detrimental to cancer survivorship experiences including a worsened health outcome for cancer survivors. Further, HIV-relevant healthy behaviors such as sexual and reproductive health may be limited by a knowledge gap in the relationship between HIV and cancer, thus, increasing the risk of negative health outcomes among cancer survivors. This stresses the importance of HIV prevention and health promotion among cancer survivors in Nigeria, and one of such prevention strategy is the use of HIV health information. This study employed a qualitative descriptive method to assess HIV knowledge and information access among female cancer survivors in Nigeria. Thirty female cancer survivors in Nigeria were recruited and interviewed using a semi-structured interviewing format. Findings based on their responses indicated their knowledge about the connection between HIV and cancer. The themes are comparing HIV and cancer, views on the effect of HIV on cancer, and seeking HIV health information. Our findings highlight the need to utilize tailored public health education interventions for the growing number of cancer survivors in Nigeria to reduce the risk of poor health outcomes in this population.

Healthy Behaviors Among Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic People Affected by Cancer During the Posttreatment Survivorship

Background There are disparities in health behaviors across racial and ethnic groups. However, limited studies focus on cancer survivors’ experiences developing and maintaining healthy behaviors, particularly in non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Hispanic people. Objective This study aimed to understand the experiences of NHB and Hispanic people affected by cancer in developing and maintaining positive health behaviors beyond a cancer diagnosis. Methods The data were collected in a mixed-method study through semistructured interviews with 29 NHB and Hispanic cancer survivors between June and October 2022. Conventional content analysis was used. Results The lived experiences of cancer survivors were narrated in 3 themes: impact of a cancer diagnosis on oneself, facilitators and barriers to health and health behaviors, and utilization of available sources for health. Facilitators and barriers to health and health behaviors were further explored as biological (eg, symptoms, comorbidities), behavioral (eg, help-seeking behavior, sleep pattern), physical/built (eg, available sources, neighborhood), and sociocultural environment (eg, income, transportation, knowledge, culture, upbringing, household and community composition, social and family network), and healthcare system–related factors (eg, insurance coverage, personal preferences, perceived discrimination, and stigma). Conclusion Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic people, specifically those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with limited sources or where they feel discriminated and stereotyped, those with limited income and transportation, and those with physical, social, or mental health problems, seemed to have challenges prioritizing health behaviors and maintaining healthy living. Implications for Practice Biological, behavioral, and psychosocial determinants of health behaviors should be addressed through multilevel collaborations among different levels of partners.

And what about today? Burden and support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in long-term follow-up care-A qualitative content analysis.

Childhood cancer affects approximately 2000 children annually in Germany, and there is an increasing number of long-term childhood cancer survivors. Due to developmental tasks, adolescent survivors in long-term follow-up (LTFU) care may face specific challenges and perceive different burden due to their disease. The current study explored (a) the impact of cancer and burden regarding survivorship and (b) supportive needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care aged 14-18 years (average age 16.4 years). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Based on the exploratory research questions, two key categories were generated: (1) The impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care and (2) support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care. The four subcategories that emerged regarding the impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care were (1) physical consequences, (2) cognitive impairments, (3) difficulties in social interactions, and (4) psychosocial burden. Additionally, two subcategories, (1) practical and (2) emotional support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors were identified. Our results indicate that childhood cancer influences adolescent survivors' life in a negative way even many years after the end of treatment. Furthermore, parents seem to play a crucial role in the survivorship experience of childhood cancer survivors, as they remain keep responsible for most cancer-related concerns even during LTFU care, causing adolescents to persist in the child role. A family systemic approach to care is suggested to facilitate development-specific tasks and to enable adolescents to become autonomous adults. Still, the question remains as to who in the health care system could take over the family systemic tasks.