Functional Assessment Of Cancer Therapy Research Articles

Sexual satisfaction and its predictors in patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers in six European countries: Baseline data from the DIAdIC study.

To identify predictors of sexual satisfaction in patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers. Cross-sectional study using baseline survey data from a randomized controlled trial in six European countries. Patients with advanced cancer and their family caregiver completed measures on sexual satisfaction (one item from Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General questionnaire for patients and Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer scale for family caregivers) and health-related characteristics. Multivariable linear regressions were performed for all predictors (identified based on literature) with sexual satisfaction as dependent variable. The sample comprised 431 patient-family caregiver dyads. Patients with prostate or gynecological cancer reported lower sexual satisfaction (respectively B=-0.267 95% CI: -1.674, -0.594 and B=-0.196, 95% CI -2.103, -0.452). Higher emotional (B=0.278, 95% CI 0.024, 0.057) physical (B=0.305, 95% CI 0.012, 0.025) and social functioning (B=0.151, 95% CI 0.001, 0.013), global health (B=0.356, 95% CI 0.007, 0.013) and social wellbeing (B=0.161, 95% CI 0.013, 0.082) among patients were associated with higher sexual satisfaction. Among family caregivers, sexual satisfaction was lower with increased age (B=-0.142, 95% CI -0.022, -0.004). Higher emotional functioning (B=0.027, 95% CI 0.011, 0.043) and quality of life (B=0.165, 95% CI -0.165, 0.716) were associated with higher sexual satisfaction in family caregivers. The results underscore that sexual wellbeing of patients and family caregivers is related to health related factors in physical, emotional, and social domains. Patients and family caregivers could benefit from a dyadic approach to address sexual wellbeing.

Influence of Music Therapy on the Improvement of Perceived Well-Being Indices in Women with Breast Cancer Undergoing Hormonal Treatment

ABSTRACT Background Although there are a growing number of studies investigating the benefits of music therapy interventions with patients diagnosed with cancer, few studies have taken an approach that specifically examines indices of perceived well-being in women with breast cancer. Overcoming these challenges can be an important step in the recovery process. Purpose The purpose of our study was to know the positive influence of responsive music therapy through gong sounds, emitted live, on different areas of well-being of women with breast cancer. Methods Four individual sessions of responsive music therapy with live gong sounds were conducted in which three women (M = 54; SD = 5.57) participated both in the music therapy program and in the completion of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Breast (FACT-B) and a semi-structured interview with ad hoc designed questions about perception of qualitative aspects. Results The results showed that the music therapy sessions significantly improved, p = .043 < 0.05, various domains of perceived well-being in women with breast cancer. Discussion This article highlights several key benefits associated with music therapy and various indices of well-being in women with breast cancer, identifies the limitations of the study, and discusses the findings. It is considered necessary to replicate this practice in future studies that include a larger sample and age range over longer follow-up periods. Translation for Health Education Practice The text highlights the importance of considering music therapy as a complementary intervention in comprehensive cancer care programs, which may be relevant to health educators when considering intervention and support approaches for cancer patients. Health education interventions targeting the enhancement of cancer patients’ well-being should incorporate music therapy techniques.

Abstract PO3-28-04: Ganglioside-Monosialic Acid for Prevention of Peripheral Neuropathy Induced by nab-Paclitaxel in Breast Cancer Patients (HELEN-004): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase II Trial

Abstract Introduction Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a dose limiting adverse effect of nab-paclitaxel. Ganglioside-Monosialic Acid (GM1) is an abundant glycosphingolipid in neuronal membranes and studies have shown its potential in preventing CIPN as a neuroprotective factor. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of GM1 in preventing CIPN induced by nab-paclitaxel in breast cancer patients. Methods This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II trial conducted at three hospitals in China (NCT04222790). Female patients 18 to 75 years with early-stage breast cancer who were scheduled to receive nab-paclitaxel containing chemotherapy were randomly assigned to receive GM1 or placebo. Nab- paclitaxel was given 125-150 mg/m2 once per week for 12 cycles or 260 mg/m2 once every 3 weeks for four cycles. GM1 or placebo started one day before chemotherapy and was given once per day for 3 days (day −1, day 1, and day 2). The primary outcome was peripheral neuropathy evaluated by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment Neurotoxicity (FACT-Ntx) subscale at 2 weeks after four cycles of chemotherapy. Other endpoints included peripheral neuropathy evaluated by CTCAE version 4.0, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – General (FACT-G) scores and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Taxane (FACT-Taxane) scores at 2 weeks after four cycles of chemotherapy. Adverse events were evaluated by CTCAE version 4.0. Additional long-term assessments were performed at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the completion of chemotherapy. All assessments were performed by trained physicians. Results 159 patients were enrolled from April 2020 to June 2021, with 79 patients assigned to the GM1 group and 80 patients to the placebo group. Eight patients in the GM1 group and eight patients in the placebo group did not complete the endpoint assessments. In total, 71 patients in GM1 group and 72 in placebo group were evaluated. Baseline characteristics were generally well balanced between groups. After four cycles of Nab-paclitaxel containing chemotherapy, Patients in the GM1 group reported similar mean FACT-Ntx subscale 36.1 (35.1-37.0) with patients in the placebo group 36.4 (35.3-37.3). Compared with baseline, the mean FACT-Ntx score at two weeks after four cycles of chemotherapy decreased by 7.9 in the GM1 group (p&amp;lt; 0.001) and 7.6 in the placebo group (p&amp;lt; 0.001). The difference between GM1 group and placebo group was not statistically significant (P=0.703). No difference was observed in secondary outcomes except that GM1 group showed lower FACT G scores (61.0, 95% CI, 58.1-63.9) than the control group (67.0, 95% CI, 63.2-70.8) at two weeks after four cycles of chemotherapy, the difference was statistically significant (P=0.014). The main results of primary and secondary outcomes were summarized in Table 1. Random assignment was stratified by age (&amp;lt; 60 or &amp;gt;=60) and BMI ((&amp;lt; 24 or &amp;gt;=24). Subgroup analysis was performed for patients in different age and BMI groups. Overall, patients above 60 years old showed lower FACT-Ntx score at than patients under 60 (34.1 and 36.5, respectively. P=0.056). Overweight patients (BMI &amp;gt;=24) showed similar FACT-Ntx score with patients with BMI smaller than 24 (36.8 and 35.7, respectively. P=0.095). The FACT-Ntx score was not significantly different between the GM1 and placebo group in different age and BMI subgroups. The most common adverse events, including myalgia-arthralgia, nausea, vomit, and diarrhea, were evaluated according to CTCAE version 4.0. Incidence and severity of adverse events were not statistically significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion GM1 did not prevent peripheral neuropathy induced by nab-paclitaxel in breast cancer patients. The effect of GM1 in preventing CIPN is still inconclusive and further studies are needed. Caution in recommending GM1 to prevent CIPN is clearly warranted. Table 1. FACT-Ntx subscale, CTCAE version 4.0, FACT-Taxane and FACT G at 2 weeks after four cycles chemotherapy. a. FACT-Ntx: Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment- Neurotoxicity; b. CTCAE4.0: Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events; c. FACT-Taxane: Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment – Taxane; d. FACT G: Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment- General. Citation Format: Zhenduo Lu, Dechuang Jiao, Jianghua Qiao, Hao Zhang, Hao Dai, Xianfu Sun, Min Yan, Yong Zhou, Lianfang Li, Chengzheng Wang, Xiuchun Chen, Zhenzhen Liu. Ganglioside-Monosialic Acid for Prevention of Peripheral Neuropathy Induced by nab-Paclitaxel in Breast Cancer Patients (HELEN-004): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase II Trial [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 PO3-28-04.

Abstract PO2-19-01: A Single-Arm Prospective Study of the Neurocognitive Changes Occurring in Breast Cancer Patients on Aromatase Inhibitors. Is There a Difference Between Objective and Perceived Neurocognition?

Abstract Background: Estrogen (ER) and Progesterone (PR) receptors are rich in regions of the brain involved in cognitive functions, like the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Animal models have shown that estradiol regulates neurocognition and plays an important role in the normal brain development. Hormone positive (HR+) breast cancers (BC) comprise 70% of the disease and the standard of care in the post-menopausal group is the use of Aromatase Inhibitors (AI) for at least 5 years. While “chemo brain” is a well-recognized term, neurocognitive changes from estrogen inhibition by AI have not been clearly defined. As neurocognition is multi-faceted, information on specific aspects affected by AI use is unclear. We hope to answer this through our trial. Design: The study is a single arm, self-controlled prospective observational cohort study in which, post-menopausal BC patients who are to be started on AIs will undergo a battery of neurocognitive tests just before starting AI, at 6 months and at 12 months after being on AI. The changes at 6 and 12 months will be compared to baseline. The tests will involve objective [Hopkins verbal learning test revised (HVLT), Controlled Oral Word Association Test from Multilingual Aphasia Examination, Trial Making Test A and B, and Recall and Recognition of Word List encoded from the HVLT] and subjective/patient-reported [The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Cognitive Function (FACT-Cog)] components. Tests for anxiety [Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)–7], depression [Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9] and working memory (Working Memory Tasks from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) will also be assessed. While the objective tests involve providing patients with specific instructions and asking them to complete the tasks, the FACT Cog questionnaire uses a self-reported 37-item questionnaire enabling assessment of their perceived symptoms. The tests have been summarized in the table. Eligibility criteria: ER/PR+ post-menopausal BC and DCIS patients who are English speaking and are planning to start AIs will be included. Patients who have received hormonal therapy or chemotherapy in the past, those who are scheduled to receive chemotherapy, those who have undergone Whole brain Radiation therapy (RT), those with a premenopausal status, and those having comorbid conditions that could affect cognitive functioning (like any form of dementia or brain metastasis) will be excluded. Specific aims: Our aim is to see if there are progressive neurocognitive changes compared to an age-appropriate baseline and to see if changes to both objective and perceived cognitive changes occur over the course of AI use, in post-menopausal HR+ BC patients. Statistical methods: The T-test and McNemer test will be used. The normal values provided from the test may be used as a standard to justify normal or abnormal values from the collected data. Therefore, a percentage of normal (or abnormal) subjects in each time point can be derived and compared using the McNemar's test. Present accrual and target accrual: 4 patients have been accrued as of June 2023 with a target accrual of 80 patients [80% power to detect a significant change, at a p of 0.05]. Contact information for people with a specific interest in the trial: Dr Abirami Sivapiragasam (abisiva2019@yahoo.com), Dr Sam Benjamin (benjamis@upstate.edu), Dr Prashanth Ashok Kumar (ashokkup@upstate.edu), Amy Bubb (bubbam@upstate.edu). Summary of the neurocognitive tests employed in the trial. Citation Format: Prashanth Ashok Kumar, Erinn McDowell, Amy Bubb, Danning Huang, Susan Sperry, Sam Benjamin, Abirami Sivapiragasam. A Single-Arm Prospective Study of the Neurocognitive Changes Occurring in Breast Cancer Patients on Aromatase Inhibitors. Is There a Difference Between Objective and Perceived Neurocognition? [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 PO2-19-01.

Abstract PO5-11-11: Risk Assessment, Prevention and Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema – Objective Measurements and Patient Reported Outcomes

Abstract Background Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) affects the quality of life, but there is no consensus regarding early detection and monitoring. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are important in assessing cancer survivor outcomes, and different questionnaires have been developed. LYMPHA (Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventive Healing Approach) and S-LYMPHA (Simplified LYMPHA) have reduced BCRL rates. This study aims to identify the most reliable PRO in a South Florida multi-ethnic population and to study correlations between PROs and objective measurements in the first 6 months after axillary surgery. Methods Patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) or axillary radiation were included. L-Dex score (Bioimpedance Spectroscopy) and three validated questionnaires (LyQLI, Lymphedema Quality of Life Inventory; LyQOL, Lymphedema Quality of Life and FACT-B4+ Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Lymphedema) were recorded at baseline, and 6 months post-surgery to assess the agreement between patient-reported symptoms and BCRL. L-Dex score outside the normal range or a 10 unit increase above baseline was considered lymphedema. Additional variables such as demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment modalities were recorded. Results Out of 40 recruited patients, 39 were analyzed (excluding one deceased patient). Patient and treatment characteristics are described in Table 1. Patients were divided into three cohorts (Figure 1) for analysis: ALND with no axillary radiation (7.69%; n=33), Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) with axillary radiation (7.69 %; n=3), and ALND with axillary radiation (85%; n=3). In the first cohort, LYMPHA or S-LYMPHA were associated with lower rates of lymphedema (19% vs, 50%) (p=0.116). No patients in the second or third cohort developed lymphedema. There were 4 out of 20 (20%) patients with lymphedema with scores above the median for FACT B4+ (p= 0.480) and a lower score (higher quality of life) correlated with lower L-Dex (p=0.76). The higher value in the physical domain of LyQLI showed higher L-Dex (p=0.826). There was a significant inter-domain correlation in LyQLI and LyQOL (p= &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusion These results validate the use of PROs alongside objective measurements to assess BCRL. In addition, LYMPHA and S-LYMPHA significantly reduce lymphedema rates. Larger numbers will be necessary to reach statistical significance and to identify the best PRO. Figure 1 Division of patient population into three cohorts Table 1 Demographic and Treatment Summary Citation Format: Anshumi Desai, Orli-Friedman Eldar, Gili Halfteck, Mecker Moller, Susan Kesmodel, Dido Franceschi, Neha Goel, Jessica Crystal, Laura Huang, Jennifer Hu, Koru-Sengal Tulay, Wei Zhao, Alexis Narvaez-Rojas, Eli Avisar. Risk Assessment, Prevention and Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema – Objective Measurements and Patient Reported Outcomes [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 PO5-11-11.

Abstract PO4-19-12: Trial in progress: An Observational Study to Examine Changes in Metabolic Syndrome Components in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving (Neo)Adjuvant Aromatase Inhibitors

Abstract Background: (Neo) adjuvant systemic therapy has been shown to adversely impact metabolic health manifested as weight gain, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, which ultimately lead to the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS increases the risk of development for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease and is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence, death due to breast cancer, and all-cause mortality. We have previously reported that 76% of metabolically healthy women receiving (neo) adjuvant chemotherapy will develop MetS at a median of 15 weeks. The impact of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) on metabolic health has not been systematically assessed in a longitudinal study. We hypothesize that AIs in the (neo) adjuvant setting will alter metabolic parameters and have embarked on a clinical trial to study this. Methods: This is a prospective observational study that will include: postmenopausal patients with newly diagnosed, early-stage hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer with planned (neo)adjuvant treatment with an AI. Participants will be excluded if they have received or have planned treatment with (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy or are currently receiving antidiabetic medications or cholesterol-lowering agents. All patients will undergo a baseline assessment that includes: BMI, physical exam inclusive of blood pressure, waist circumference, assessment of body fat, lipid profile, insulin, metabolic biomarkers, and completion of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Endocrine Symptoms (FACT-ES). Following institution of an AI, reassessment of the aforementioned tests will be repeated after 4 months and 12 months of therapy. The primary endpoint is the change in insulin resistance (as measured by HOMA-IR, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance) at 4 months. Secondary endpoints include the change in HOMA-IR at 12 months and the change in individual MetS components, metabolic biomarkers, anthropometric measurements, as well as FACT-ES scores from baseline to 4- and 12-months of AI treatment. The mean paired differences will be calculated for HOMA-IR measurements as well as for the secondary endpoints, and the 1-sided paired t-test will be used to test for statistical significance. One-way analysis of covariance will be used to compare means while adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and BMI. Using a 1-sided paired t-test for the mean difference in HOMA-IR measurements from baseline to 4 months, we will have 80% power to detect an effect size of 0.405 with 40 patients (α = 0.05). Enrollment began in April 2023 and is ongoing. Contact alevee@coh.org for more information. Given the increased recognition of the importance of metabolic health in breast cancer outcomes, this data will inform future trials that focus on maintaining metabolic health in breast cancer survivors. Citation Format: Alexis LeVee, Nora Ruel, Victoria Seewaldt, Joanne Mortimer. Trial in progress: An Observational Study to Examine Changes in Metabolic Syndrome Components in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving (Neo)Adjuvant Aromatase Inhibitors [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 PO4-19-12.

Abstract PO3-04-12: SUMIT-BC: Phase 2 randomized study of fulvestrant with or without the cyclin-dependent kinase 7 inhibitor (CDK7i) samuraciclib in advanced hormone receptor positive (HR+) breast cancer after CDK4/6i

Abstract Background: CDK7 has 3 critical roles in cancer: enhanced transcription of oncogenes and upregulation of anti-apoptotic genes, acceleration of the cell cycle through phosphorylation of other CDKs and driving estrogen receptor (ER) resistance to hormonal therapy. Inhibition of CDK7 is therefore a potential novel anti-cancer therapeutic strategy. In an initial single-arm evaluation samuraciclib (CT7001), a once daily (QD) oral CDK7 inhibitor has demonstrated a favourable safety profile and clinical activity in combination with fulvestrant, a selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), in patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who have previously been treated with a CDK4/6 inhibitor. There was evidence of enhanced benefit in patients with no detectable TP53 mutation from baseline circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis and in patients without baseline liver metastases [1]. Samuraciclib is associated with low grade gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea managed with simple prophylaxis and patient counselling. An instant release capsule formulation was used in the initial clinical evaluation of samuraciclib requiring patients to take multiple capsules designed to rapidly release a large amount of material high in the GI tract. In this study a novel single tablet formulation will be administered which may enhance GI tolerability (2). This Phase 2 open-label randomised study will evaluate the efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics and Quality of Life (QoL) impact of samuraciclib in combination with fulvestrant in comparison to a fulvestrant monotherapy control arm. Consistent with the principles of the current Project OPTIMUS initiative, 2 dose levels of samuraciclib will be evaluated [3]. All patients will undergo baseline ctDNA evaluation of TP53 mutation status to permit a prospective evaluation of its patient selection biomarker potential. Trial Design: Eligible patients will provide written informed consent, be aged 18 years or older, have histologically or cytologically confirmed ER+/HER2- advanced or metastatic breast cancer not amenable to resection or radiotherapy of curative intent, have received an aromatase inhibitor in combination with a CDK4/6 inhibitor in either the adjuvant or advanced setting, be receiving a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist if pre/perimenopausal and have RECIST v1.1 evaluable disease. Prior SERD, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor (mTORi) or chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer are not permitted. All patients will undergo baseline Guardant360 ctDNA analysis to establish their TP53 mutation status among others. 60 patients will be enrolled and will all receive fulvestrant 500mg IM administered on days 1, 15 and 29 and then monthly thereafter. Patients will be randomized 1:1:1 to fulvestrant alone, fulvestrant and samuraciclib 240mg QD or fulvestrant and samuraciclib 360mg QD. Patients will undergo RECIST v1.1 evaluation at baseline every 8-weeks until week 48, followed by every 12-weeks thereafter. The pharmacokinetics of samuraciclib and fulvestrant will be studied though the first 6 months of the study, with highest intensity during month 1. To evaluate Quality of Life (QoL) The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy -Breast questionnaire (FACT-B) will be completed. The primary endpoint is clinical benefit response at 24 weeks. Secondary endpoints are tolerability, progression free survival, overall response rate, duration of response, and the pharmacokinetics of fulvestrant and samuraciclib. QoL and correlations between ctDNA detectable TP53 mutations and efficacy/safety finding in this patient population will be reported. The study opened for recruitment in June 2023.

An evidence-based breathing exercise intervention for chronic pain management in breast cancer survivors: A Phase II randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveExplore the preliminary effects of a breathing exercise (BE) intervention on chronic pain among breast cancer survivors. MethodsThis two-parallel-arm, open-label pilot randomized controlled trial recruited 72 breast cancer survivors who were randomly allocated to either the control or intervention group (n=36 each). Both groups received usual care and a pain information booklet, while the intervention group received 4 weeks of additional BE. The primary clinical outcome was measured using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), with secondary clinical outcomes measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Quality of Life Patient/Cancer Survivor Version in Chinese (QOLCSV-C), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy- Breast (FACT-B) immediately post-intervention and at 4-week follow-up. Both adjusted and unadjusted Generalized Estimating Equation models were utilized to assess the BE’s potential effects, with safety assessed through participant self-report. ResultsSixty-eight participants completed the study. Statistical significance was observed in BPI in both adjusted and unadjusted models at post-intervention and follow-up (p< 0.05). BE demonstrated positive effects on anxiety, depression and quality of life improvement across all measures and timepoints in both adjusted and unadjusted models (p<0.05). The effect sizes were smaller in the adjusted model. Three mild transient discomforts were reported associated with BE practice including dizziness, tiredness and yawning, without requirement of medical treatment. No severe adverse events occurred. ConclusionThis BE intervention appears effective in alleviating chronic pain, anxiety and depression, and improving quality of life for breast cancer survivors. Fully powered large-scale studies are required to confirm its effects.

A pilot randomised controlled trial of acceptance and commitment therapy for medication decision-making and quality of life in women with breast cancer: The ACTION trial.

Non-adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) in women with breast cancer is common and associated with medication side-effects and distress. We co-designed an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention (ACTION) to enhance medication decision-making and quality of life (QoL). We undertook a pilot trial of ACTION to inform the feasibility of a phase III trial, and to examine intervention acceptability. This was a multi-site, exploratory, two-arm, individually randomised external pilot trial. Women with early breast cancer prescribed AET were randomised (1:1) to receive usual care (UC) or UC+ACTION. The ACTION intervention comprised a remotely delivered one-to-one ACT session followed by three group sessions delivered by clinical psychologists, alongside a website containing ideas for the self-management of side effects. Of the 480 women screened for eligibility, 260 (54.2%) were approached and 79 (30.4%) randomised. 71 (89.9%) women provided data at 3-month and 70 (88.6%) at 6-month 40 women were randomised to receive UC+ACTION and 32 (80.0%) completed the intervention. Most (75.0%) accessed the website at least once. ACTION was acceptable to participants (Borkovec & Nau Scale: mean=7.8 [SD=2.7] out of 10). Signals of effectiveness in favour of the UC+ACTION arm were observed for medication adherence (Adherence Starts with Knowledge questionnaire-12), QoL (work and social adjustment scale), health-related QoL (functional assessment of cancer therapy[FACT] general and FACT-ES-19/23), distress (generalised anxiety disorder -7, patient health questionnaire-9) and psychological flexibility (valuing questionnaire). The ACTION intervention was acceptable to patients. There were promising signals for effectiveness on primary and secondary outcomes. A phase III randomised controlled trial is feasible. ISRCTN12027752.

Sedentary time transitions and associations with quality of life in cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background Patterns in sedentary time (SED) and its impact on quality of life (QoL) in cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to 1) compare total and domain-specific SED before and during the pandemic; and 2) examine its association with QoL in a global sample of cancer survivors. Methods In an online survey, cancer survivors retrospectively self-reported domain-specific SED (e.g. transportation, television) before and during the pandemic via the Domain-Specific Sitting Time Questionnaire. QoL was assessed via the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT)-General and FACT-Fatigue. Paired t-tests compared daily SED before and during the pandemic. Analysis of covariance compared QoL among: those who remained high (>8 h/day), remained low (<8 h/day), increased (<8 h/day to >8 h/day), or decreased (>8 h/day to <8 h/day) daily SED. Results Among cancer survivors (N = 477, Mage=48.5 ± 15.4), 60.8% reported that their SED remained high, 19.7% remained low, 7.5% increased SED, and 11.9% decreased SED. Computer and television screen time significantly increased (p’s<.001), while SED during transportation significantly decreased (p<.001). Sub-group analyses revealed that those who reduced SED who were normal or underweight (p=.042) or were meeting physical activity guidelines (p=.031) had significantly less fatigue than those who increased or remained high in SED, respectively. Those who remained high in SED with <3 comorbidities (p’s =.005) had significantly better social well-being than those who increased SED. Conclusions As we transition to a post-pandemic era, behavioral strategies for cancer survivors should focus on reducing screen time to improve QoL and fatigue.

Predictors of self-reported word-finding difficulties in glioma patients – a longitudinal study

ABSTRACT Background Word-finding difficulties are a common self-reported concern in glioma patients known to negatively affect social participation and life satisfaction. Discrepancies between self-reported difficulties and performance on objective tests have been reported, but studies are seldom conducted longitudinally. Aims The aim of the present study was to examine the occurrence of self-reported word-finding difficulties before and during the first year after glioma surgery. In addition, we investigated whether self-reported word-finding difficulties were predicted by standardized language tests and psychological distress. Methods and procedures Twenty-three patients with gliomas (grade 1–3) were assessed pre-surgery, at six and twelve months follow-up. Self-reported word-finding difficulties were addressed with the item I am able to find the right word(s) to say what I mean, from the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Brain (FACT-Br). Confrontation naming was tested with the Boston Naming Test (BNT), word production with a semantic fluency test and word knowledge with a vocabulary test. Self-reported measures of psychological distress were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Ordinal regression models were used to examine predictors of self-reported word-finding difficulties. Outcomes and results Word-finding difficulties were reported by 68% of the patients pre-surgery, increasing to 90% and 85% at the following assessments. Significant changes were observed in the magnitude of reported concerns between pre-surgery assessment and six months follow-up. Regression analyses demonstated that self-reported word-finding difficulties were predicted by psychological distress and vocabulary pre-surgery and vocabulary at six months follow-up, whereas confrontation naming and semantic fluency did not become significant in any of the assessments. Conclusion Our results indicate that self-reported word-finding difficulties occurred in a high percentage of glioma patients throughout the first year of illness. Patients reported increased difficulties after surgery that were not predicted by confrontation naming or semantic fluency but by vocabulary performance. The results imply further that psychological distress is a factor that should be taken into account. Self-reported function is an important supplement to objective testing and can provide indications about mental health status and the patients` perspective on language related challenges in everyday life.

Perceived control, self-management efficacy, and quality of life in patients treated with radiation therapy for breast cancer: a longitudinal study.

This longitudinal study aims to examine the present state of perceived control, self-management efficacy, and overall quality of life (QoL) in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, and gain insight into the dynamic trends and factors that influence the quality of life experienced by patients during the course of radiotherapy. Participants completed the Cancer Experience and Efficacy Scale (CEES), Strategies Used by People to Promote Health (SUPPH), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy- Breast (FACT-B). The data was analyzed using the software SPSS26.0. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mixed-effects linear models were used to analyze trends in perceived control, self-management efficacy, and QoL at three-time points, as well as factors affecting QoL during radiotherapy. Perceived control and self-management efficacy were associated with QoL over the course of the radiotherapy. Self-management efficacy (β = 0.30, P < 0.001), presence of chemotherapy (β = 18.33, P = 0.024), and duration of illness (β = 2.25, P = 0.028) had a positive effect on the change in QoL, while time (β = - 2.95, P < 0.001), cancer experience (β = - 0.46, P < 0.001), and type of medical insurance (β = - 2.77, P = 0.021) had the negative effect on the change in QoL. The QoL, perceived control, and self-efficacy of patients with breast cancer show dynamic changes during radiotherapy. The higher the self-efficacy, the better the QoL, and the worse the QoL when the sense of disease control is poor. At the same time, more attention should be paid to the QoL of breast cancer radiotherapy patients with a long course of the disease, receiving chemotherapy, and different medical payment methods.

Study protocol for a pragmatic randomised controlled trial of comparing enhanced acceptance and commitment therapy plus (+) added to usual aftercare versus usual aftercare only, in patients living with or beyond cancer: SUrvivors’ Rehabilitation Evaluation after CANcer (SURECAN) trial

BackgroundTwo million people in the UK are living with or beyond cancer and a third of them report poor quality of life (QoL) due to problems such as fatigue, fear of cancer recurrence, and concerns about returning to work. We aimed to develop and evaluate an intervention based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), suited to address the concerns of cancer survivors and in improving their QoL. We also recognise the importance of exercise and vocational activity on QoL and therefore will integrate options for physical activity and return to work/vocational support, thus ACT Plus (+).MethodsWe will conduct a multi-centre, pragmatic, theory driven, randomised controlled trial. We will assess whether ACT+ including usual aftercare (intervention) is more effective and cost-effective than usual aftercare alone (control). The primary outcome is QoL of participants living with or beyond cancer measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy: General scale (FACT-G) at 52 weeks. We will recruit 344 participants identified from secondary care sites who have completed hospital-based treatment for cancer with curative intent, with low QoL (determined by the FACT-G) and randomise with an allocation ratio of 1:1 to the intervention or control. The intervention (ACT+) will be delivered by NHS Talking Therapies, specialist services, and cancer charities. The intervention consists of up to eight sessions at weekly or fortnightly intervals using different modalities of delivery to suit individual needs, i.e. face-to-face sessions, over the phone or skype.DiscussionTo date, there have been no robust trials reporting both clinical and cost-effectiveness of an ACT based intervention for people with low QoL after curative cancer treatment in the UK. We will provide high quality evidence of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of adding ACT+ to usual aftercare provided by the NHS. If shown to be effective and cost-effective then commissioners, providers and cancer charities will know how to improve QoL in cancer survivors and their families.Trial registrationISRCTN: ISRCTN67900293. Registered on 09 December 2019.All items from the World Health Organization Trial Registration Data Set for this protocol can be found in Additional file 2 Table S1.

Difficulties in emotion regulation and well-being in breast cancer

ABSTRACT Objective: Breast cancer is responsible for disruptive changes in women’s lives, causing them to experience diverse and intense negative emotions that can affect their perception of well-being. The present study aimed to characterize difficulties in emotion regulation (ER), according to Gratz and Roemer’s multidimensional assessment, in women with breast cancer and to relate them with General Well-Being and its different domains: Physical, Social/Familial, Emotional, and Functional. Method: Ninety-five Portuguese women with breast cancer aged between 32 and 75 years answered a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the Portuguese versions of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – General. Data were collected in an oncology public hospital. Results: In general, difficulties in ER presented negative correlations with General Well-Being and its domains. The multiple regression analysis findings indicated that two specific types of difficulties, Limited Access to ER Strategies and Lack of Emotional Clarity, play a significant role in predicting well-being, especially in the Emotional domain, which was most compromised in these patients. Conclusions: These difficulties should be approached within psycho-oncological interventions as they are essential contributors to improving emotional and general well-being and fostering psychological adaptation to breast cancer.

Pilot Study of the Effectiveness of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

Background. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive technique that acts on the activity of the cerebral cortex employing electrical currents. Aim. The objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of rTMS on pain and quality of life in patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain. Method. Ten patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain received 20 sessions of rTMS, consisting of 15 minutes of treatment repeated 5 times per week for four weeks (10 Hz, 20s, 30 trains with 81% intensity). Patients were evaluated using the Brief pain inventory (BPI) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy and neurotoxicity (FACT-GOG-NTX 13). Results. There were significant differences in BPI mean severity, interference score and FACT-GOG-NTX 13 (p&lt;0,05). Conclusion. The pilot study results suggest that rTMS is potentially beneficial for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. rTMS over the M1 had an important reduction in pain severity, interference with daily activities, and quality of life scores. However, results should be taken with caution due to the small sample size, absence of a control group and short period of follow-up.

The association of prognostic awareness with quality of life, spiritual well-being, psychological distress, and pain severity in patients with advanced cancer: Results from the APPROACH Study in Indonesia.

Advanced cancer patients' understanding of their illness is key for making informed treatment decisions. Despite the known importance of patients' awareness of their disease prognosis, it is debatable whether this awareness is positively, negatively, or not associated with clinical and psychological outcomes among patients with advanced cancer. This paper aims to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with prognostic awareness and its association with quality of life (QoL), spiritual well-being, pain control, and psychological distress in patients with advanced cancer in Indonesia. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was part of a multicountry study titled "Asian Patient Perspectives Regarding Oncology Awareness, Care and Health (APPROACH)." Patients were asked what they knew about their cancer and treatment. QoL and spiritual well-being were measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General (FACT-G) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Spiritual Well-being (FACIT-Sp) questionnaire. Psychological distress experienced by patients was recorded via the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Pain severity was also assessed. Data from 160 patients were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models. Of the 160 patients who participated, 55 (34.4%) were unaware of their cancer stage. Those who were aware of their stage of cancer were younger than those who were not aware (45.7 years vs 50.4 years, p = .015). There was no significant difference in spiritual well-being and other domains of QoL between those who were aware and those who were not aware of their advanced cancer stage. There was also no significant difference in anxiety depression or pain severity, even after adjustment for demographic and clinical characteristics. Given the high prevalence of patients who wrongly thought their cancer was curable, more could be done to improve disease and prognostic understanding among patients with advanced cancer in Indonesia. Those who were aware of their advanced cancer stage did not have a poorer QoL, nor did they have more anxiety or depression than those who were unaware. This finding suggests that concerns about the negative impact of prognostic disclosure may be unfounded.

What matters most to people with metastatic uveal melanoma? A qualitative study to inform future measurement of health-related quality of life.

Metastatic uveal melanoma (mUM) is a rare cancer with poor prognosis, but novel treatments are emerging. Currently, there are no mUM-specific health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaires available for clinical research. We aimed to explore how mUM and its treatment affect HRQL and assess the content validity of existing questionnaires. Participants were patients with mUM and healthcare professionals involved in their care. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Data collection and analysis used an integrative approach involving inductive questions/coding to elicit new concepts and deductive questions/coding based on domains of existing HRQL questionnaires. Initial interviews/focus groups focussed on HRQL questionnaires designed for patients with uveal melanoma or liver metastases. As new concepts were elicited, domains and items from other questionnaires were subsequently added. Seventeen patients and 16 clinicians participated. HRQL concerns assessed by uveal melanoma-specific questionnaires were largely resolved by the time of metastasis. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Immunotherapy Module (FACT-ICM) adequately captured most immunotherapy-related side effects during initial treatment cycles. However, most patients emphasised emotional impacts over physical ones, focussing on the existential threat posed by disease amidst uncertainty about treatment accessibility and effectiveness. Patients were also concerned with treatment burden, including time commitment, travel, need for hospitalisation, and expenses. The relative importance of HRQL issues varied over time and across treatment modalities, with no single questionnaire being sufficient. Pending further development and psychometric testing, clinical researchers may need to take a modular approach to measuring the HRQL impacts of mUM.

Tripartite prehabilitation of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes during intensive chemotherapy before allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (COHABILIT): protocol for an innovating prospective multicentre study

ObjectivesAcute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are often treated with intensive chemotherapy followed by allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The pretransplant treatment results in a general...

Familism, family cohesion, and health-related quality of life in Hispanic prostate cancer survivors.

Familism, the cultural value that emphasizes feelings of loyalty and dedication to one's family, has been related to both positive and negative outcomes in Hispanic cancer survivors. One potential source of observed inconsistencies may be limited attention to the family environment, as familism may be protective in a cohesive family whereas it can exacerbate distress in a conflictive family. The current study explored the associations of familism with general and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Hispanic men who completed prostate cancer (PC) treatment, and whether family cohesion may help explain these relationships. Hispanic men treated for localized PC (e.g., radiation, surgery) were enrolled in a randomized controlled stress management trial and assessed prior to randomization. Familism (familial obligation) was assessed using Sabogal's Familism Scale and family cohesion was measured using the Family Environment Scale (ranging from high to low). The sexual, urinary incontinence, and urinary obstructive/irritative domains of the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite - Short Form measured disease-specific HRQoL. The physical, emotional, and functional well-being subscales of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General captured general HRQoL. Hierarchical linear regression and the SPSS PROCESS macro were used to conduct moderation analyses, while controlling for relevant covariates. Participants were 202 older men on average 65.7 years of age (SD = 8.0) who had been diagnosed with PC an average of 22 months prior to enrollment. Familism was not directly associated with general and disease-specific HRQoL. Moderation analyses revealed that greater familism was related to poorer urinary functioning in the incontinence (p = .03) and irritative/obstructive domains (p = .01), and lower emotional well-being (p = .02), particularly when family cohesion was low. These findings underscore the importance of considering contextual factors, such as family cohesion, in understanding the influence of familism on general and disease-specific HRQoL among Hispanic PC patients. The combined influence of familism and family cohesion predicts clinically meaningful differences in urinary functioning and emotional well-being during the posttreatment phase. Culturally sensitive psychosocial interventions to boost family cohesion and leverage the positive impact of familistic attitudes are needed to enhance HRQoL outcomes in this population.

Online pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement in breast cancer survivors: protocol of a randomized controlled trial.

Cancer-related chronic pain is an important sequelae that damages the quality of life of breast cancer survivors. Pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement are therapeutic tools that have been shown to be effective in the management of chronic pain in other populations. However, there are no previous studies that combine them after breast cancer. To evaluate the effectiveness of an online physiotherapy focused-person program which combines pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement for quality of life improvement in breast cancer survivors. This protocol is a randomized controlled trial with a sample size of 40 breast cancer survivors with pain in the last 6 months. Participants will be allocated to the experimental or control group using a fixed size block randomization method. The evaluator and statistician will be blinded to participant allocation. Participants in the experimental group will receive a 12-week intervention based on pain neuroscience education and therapeutic yoga as a graded exposure to movement exercise; participants in the control group will continue with their usual cancer-related symptoms care. Both groups will receive an education booklet. The main outcome will be quality of life, measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Breast (FACT-B+4); secondary, four outcomes related to pain experience (catastrophising, self-efficacy, kinesiophobia and fear-avoidance behaviors) will be also assessed. All variables will be assessed by two blinded evaluators at four timepoints. A mixed-model analyses of variance ANOVA (2 × 4) will be used to study the effects of the treatment on the dependent variables. All statistical tests will be performed considering a confidence interval of 95%. SPSS program will be used for the data analysis. This research is expected to contribute to breast cancer rehabilitation field. The proposed intervention is also expected to improve self-care skills related to chronic pain and to empower women regarding the management of their symptoms and quality of life.Clinical trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/, NCT04965909.