Perspective Of Cancer Patients Research Articles

Cancer patients’ perceptions of nursing: Expectations & realities, a phenomenological study

PurposeDetermining the perception and expectations of cancer patients will inform nurses' understanding of how to conduct nursing care to meet patients' needs. Studies have mainly used quantitative methods to understand nursing image from the perspective of the public and the profession, and there are no recent studies to date on nursing image from the perspective of cancer patients. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore cancer patients' experiences and perceptions of nursing within the conceptual framework of Watson's Human Care Theory. MethodsIn total, 19 phenomenological semi-structured interviews were conducted with cancer patients between November 2022 and January 2023. Data were analyzed using Assarroudi et al.'s content analysis. ResultsThree themes emerged from the phenomenological analysis of the interviews: (1) nursing image, (2) expectations, and (3) realities. Patients stated that nurses act as assistants and that health services cannot be provided without them. Under the main theme of ‘expectations,’ five subthemes emerged: psychosocial care, physical care, ethics, individual characteristics, and no expectations, while the theme of ‘realities’ contained two subthemes: (1) satisfaction with nurse behaviors, and (2) dissatisfaction with nurse behaviors. ConclusionsOur study provides important insight for nurses working with cancer patients in the management of patient care and treatment. Empowering cancer nurses will increase patient care satisfaction. We recommend the implementation of programs designed to support nurses and improve nursing communication skills. We also recommend that the technical and psychosocial aspects of nursing care should be considered as a whole.

Abstract PO1-11-04: Breast cancer patient perspectives on the need for psychotherapy and the roll of physician referrals for improved quality of life during and post treatment

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this mixed methods study was to examine what factors may influence emotional suppression and emotional expression in breast cancer patients and how coping styles relate to beliefs about physician-driven referrals to therapy during the cancer treatment process to improve quality of life during and after breast cancer treatment. Methods: A mixed method research design consisting of quantitative methods including a demographics survey, the Courtauld Emotional Control Scale and treatment preference questionnaires followed by optional participation in a semi-structured interview. Sixty-nine participants who met the inclusion criteria were selected as the quantitative study sample and 27 participated in interviews to further discuss their personal views on therapy during breast cancer treatment, beliefs about physician-driven referrals and experiences of coping throughout and post-cancer treatment. Results: Demographic variables including age, marital status, income, and experience of psychotherapy prior to breast cancer diagnosis are statically significant factors that influence CECS scores and coping styles. Thematic narrative analysis of interviews revealed both Expressers and Suppressors recounted experiencing the ‘Elsa effect’, a term coined to describe emotional concealment as a form of emotionally protecting self and others and reported that a physician driven referral to therapy would have been helpful in terms with coping and improving quality of life. Participants universally believed that there should be some level of psychotherapy referrals for supportive mental health care during and after the treatment process. Types of supports to which they wanted to be referred, how referrals are made, why referrals are needed, language used when making referrals, what medium through which therapeutic support should be offered, and whether or not therapy referrals should be mandated were all discussed. Physician stigma related to psychotherapy was also suggested as a possible barrier. Conclusions: Overwhelmingly, participants who fell into either category of emotional suppressor or emotional expresser believed that there should be physician driven referrals to therapy during the breast cancer treatment process as part of best practices for improved quality of life. Both those identified as suppressors and expressers indicated high rates of concealing one’s true emotional experience. This highlights the need for psychological therapy referrals to be integrated as a best practice, regardless of patient’s identified coping style or demographic identities. Referral sources should be mindful of language used, patient ability to access to services and other factors as part of the referral process. Citation Format: Joyce Williams, Beth Counselman-Carpenter, William Burak. Breast cancer patient perspectives on the need for psychotherapy and the roll of physician referrals for improved quality of life during and post treatment [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 PO1-11-04.

Factors Impacting on Patient-Centered Communication Skills and Their Opportunities to Be Involved in Decision-making From the Perspective of Patients With Cancer, Informal Caregivers, and/or Healthcare Professionals: A Systematic Review.

Active participation of cancer patients and their caregivers in decision-making, along with high-quality communication, is crucial in patient-centered cancer management. Although numerous factors affecting patients' communication and decision-making involvement have been identified, it is still unclear which ones are the most prevalent and critical. To identify factors that contribute to high-quality patient-centered communication and decision-making participation from the perspectives of cancer patients, informal caregivers, and/or healthcare professionals. A systematic review was conducted, using 9 databases to retrieve primary research articles published from 2010 to February 17, 2023, updated on December 13, 2023. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (version 18). The socioecological model of communication was utilized as analytical framework for summarizing the results. Fifty-two studies were included. The most frequently reported factors were predominantly articulated at the individual, interpersonal, and societal levels. Although the patients' lack of knowledge and limited language proficiency were the frequent patient-level barriers, the perceived lack of knowledge and lack of training of professionals were the crucial and current professional-level barriers, as reported in studies published in 2016 onward. To circumvent these factors, it is critical to enhance professionals' knowledge, communication skills, and patient relationships. Recognizing barriers and facilitators could help in the development of strategies to overcome these barriers and enhance patient participation in clinical communication. The findings could guide the development of programs to enhance patient-professional communication skills. Further cross-cultural studies are needed to understand culture's impact on communication effectiveness and decision-making participation.

The role of food during oncology treatment: perspectives of cancer patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals

PurposeMany cancer patients have problems eating which are usually connected to taste and smell alterations due to side effects of cancer treatment. These problems have consequences both in terms of malnutrition and reduced quality of life. In order to explore social and psychological consequences of eating problems in cancer patients, qualitative interviews were conducted with cancer patients, their caregivers and healthcare professionals.MethodsThe study was conducted in three European countries (Poland, Spain and the UK) that differed in culture, oncology care approaches and availability of nutritional products targeted to cancer patients in the market.ResultsDifferences in the social role of eating between the three European countries were observed which subsequently influenced the impact of eating problems for cancer patients in these countries. Furthermore, the study found that problems with food affect not only the quality of life of cancer patients, but can also distress their caregivers, who are often unable to cope with such food-related problems. In addition, the study showed that commercially available nutritional products for cancer patients focus on nutritional value but tend to neglect an important aspect of eating, which is the enjoyment of food, both individually and socially.

Feasibility of a Physical Activity Index in Clinical Practice: Perspectives of Providers and Cancer Patients

In Brief Physical activity is a common clinical recommendation for cancer survivors, yet the use of clinical tools to counsel patients is understudied. We developed an integrated Physical Activity Index to assist with this task. The purpose of this project was to conduct interviews to assess the feasibility and clinical utility of the Physical Activity Index from both provider and patient perspectives. Our findings indicate that a Physical Activity Index may be a useful tool to facilitate productive patient-provider communication about physical activity goals.

(098) The Impact of Erectile Dysfunction and Urinary Incontinence on the Mental Health of Prostate Cancer Patients

Abstract Introduction Prostate cancer (PCa), erectile dysfunction (ED), and urinary incontinence (UI) can all independently increase a person’s risk of mental health (MH) disorders. However, the relationship between ED and UI on the MH of PCa patients is poorly understood. Objective Our objective is to assess the impact of ED and UI on MH in PCa patients at different stages of diagnosis and treatment. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study using the insurance claims database, IBM MarketScan, between 2011-2020. Using ICD9/10 and CPT codes, we identified all patients with a diagnosis of PCa and matched each to a control without PCa by age and CCI, which was modified to exclude cancer diagnoses. PCa status was categorized into four groups based on where patients were in their prostate cancer timeline: pre-cancer (PCa patients prior to diagnosis), watching (patients with a diagnosis of PCa without treatment), radiation and prostatectomy. We also noted the first diagnosis of UI and ED for each patient. Patients were followed throughout their enrollment period and any MH diagnoses were recorded, including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, substance abuse disorders and self-harm/suicide attempts. Multivariable cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the relationship between PCa, ED or UI, and MH diagnoses. Models additionally controlled for age, rurality and comorbidities. Patients were censored when their enrollment ended. Interaction terms between PCa status and ED or UI were included to test for differential responses to urologic comorbidities between cancer patients and cancer-free controls. Results A total of 1,253,618 patients were included in the analysis. All patients in the pre-cancer, watching, prostatectomy, and radiation groups without ED or UI showed a decreased risk of being diagnosed with a MH condition compared to controls [HR: 0.86 (0.84-0.88), 0.93 (0.92-0.94), 0.77 (0.74-0.81), and 0.89 (0.86-0.93), respectively; p<0.001]. MH diagnosis was significantly increased in controls with ED [HR: 1.13 (1.10-1.15); p<0.001]. Though the effect of ED was increased in the pre-cancer group [HR: 1.05 (1.00-1.11); p<0.05] compared to controls, the effect was significantly ameliorated in the watching, prostatectomy and radiation groups [HR: 0.88 (0.85-0.90), 0.91 (0.85-0.98) and 0.88 (0.82-0.95), respectively; p<0.01]. UI also significantly increased the likelihood of a MH diagnosis in controls [HR: 2.07 (2.00-2.15); p<0.001], but the effect was significantly dampened for men in the pre-cancer, watching, prostatectomy and radiation groups [HR: 0.83 (0.76-0.91), 0.67 (0.64-0.71), 0.54 (0.50-0.58), and 0.69 (0.62-0.77), respectively; p<0.001). Conclusions Compared to age and CCI-matched controls, PCa patients with ED in watching, prostatectomy and radiation groups and PCa patients with UI have a decreased risk of being diagnosed with a MH condition compared to controls with the same urologic comorbidities. This relationship between PCa groups and MH disorders has been observed in other cancer patient populations and is sometimes referred to the “cancer paradox” or “post-traumatic growth” since these patients with cancer experience a lower incidence of MH compared to those without cancer. Possible reasons for this phenomenon include enhanced resilience, a reevaluation of life priorities and/or a greater appreciation for life due to a shift in perspective of cancer patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Inherent bio, Paterna bio, Firmtech, Turtle health, Maximus, Carrot.

A Comparative Analysis of Spiritual Care Needs Among Cancer Patients Receiving Home Care and Their Caregivers in Turkey

This study was conducted to determine and compare the spiritual care needs of cancer patients and their caregivers. A comparative descriptive, cross-sectional design was employed in this study. The study comprised 102 patients who were registered in the hospital’s home care unit, as well as their caregivers (total number = 204). The data were collected using a personal information form and the Spiritual Care Needs Inventory. The cancer patients had a mean age of 69.5 years, while their caregivers’ mean age was 53.1 years. According to the results, the cancer patients needed more spiritual care than their caregivers (p < 0.01). Patients’ spiritual care needs differed significantly by employment status (p < 0.05). However, gender, educational level, and marital status did not have a significant difference in the spiritual care needs of the patients and their caregivers (p > 0.05). Moderately positive and significant (p < 0.05) correlations between patients and their caregivers were found for the total Spiritual Care Needs Inventory scores (r = 0.449), the meaning and hope subscale (r = 0.378), and the caring and respect subscale (r = 0.546). It is important to evaluate the spiritual needs of patients with cancer and their caregivers. In this evaluation, it is essential to elicit the perspectives of cancer patients and their caregivers concerning spiritual needs and religion. Effective spiritual care for patients and their caregivers can only be provided if their beliefs and priorities are taken into consideration.

Palliative Care for Cancer Patients in Asia: Challenges and Countermeasures.

With the increasing incidence of cancer worldwide, palliative care has become an effective intervention to relieve cancer patients' pain and improve their quality of life, although the present development of palliative medicine and hospice care in many Asian countries remains insufficient. To this end, this review comprehensively discussed the main challenges that influence the promotion of palliative medicine, from the perspective of both healthcare professionals and cancer patients. We further proposed and summarized a series of potentially effective countermeasures and solutions, including the shared decision-making modal, multidisciplinary professional cooperation, application of modern science and technology, standardization training for medical workers, personalized palliative treatment regimens, and others, aiming to improve the clinical quality of palliative care practice for cancer patients and promote the development of palliative medicine in Asian regions.

The Perspective of Cancer Patients in Palliative Care on Unmet Needs: A Qualitative Synthesis Using Meta-Ethnography.

As cancer patients approach the end of life, their needs become more complex, increasing the demand for palliative care. Advanced-stage cancer patients encounter increasing unmet psychological, physical, autonomy, and communication needs, reflecting the difference between patients' perceived requirements and the support from health care professionals. The objective of this study was to synthesize qualitative evidence on unmet needs in palliative cancer care among inpatient and outpatient adults. We conducted a meta-ethnographic review according to Noblit and Hare's framework and the operationalized guidelines developed by Sattar. The eMERGe Reporting Guidance was followed. A literature search was conducted in Cinahl, Embase, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Google Scholar for gray literature. For all the studies, direct quotes from the participants and authors' results were identified, coded and analyzed in NVivo 1.7.1 and extracted as I and II order constructs from which higher third-order themes originated. Eight studies were included. Four new themes emerged, representing areas where palliative cancer care patients expressed a need for help: the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care, the need for maintaining a sense of autonomy and dignity, the need for attentive support to patients' soul and the need for accessible and timely care. Palliative care patients require a secure, suffering-free end-of-life journey with informed decision-making and team support. Ensuring continuity of care, validating their suffering, and allocating sufficient time are crucial aspects of care. This involves maintaining a consistent care plan, respecting patients' emotions and experiences, and providing services tailored to individual needs.

Exploring the Important Determinants Shaping Treatment Preferences: Qualitative Insights into Breast Cancer Patient Experiences and Perspectives in New Zealand.

Despite the importance of acknowledging patient preferences in treatment decision-making, little is known about the treatment preferences and the factors underlying those preferences of breast cancer patients. This study aims explore patient experience and perspective regarding treatment preferences and identify the important determinants that shape these preferences in the context of New Zealand. Semi-structured online interviews comprised of six focus group discussions and five individual interviews were performed with 26 breast cancer patients. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the reflexive thematic analysis approach. Four main themes were derived: (1) positive treatment outcomes; (2) the negative impact of treatment-related side effects on quality of life; (3) treatment accessibility, availability, and timeliness; (4) cost of treatment. Patients revealed a strong preference towards treatments that yield longer survival, achieve remission, and prevent cancer recurrence. Additionally, patients favored treatments with minimal side effects that had minimal impact on their quality of life. There was a notable preference for treatments that were easily accessible and available in a timely manner. However, patients faced challenging decisions in balancing the costs of treatments with their benefits, leading to a consistent preference for treatments supported by government funding or medical insurance to alleviate financial burdens. Our study reveals that breast cancer patients in New Zealand have different perceptions and preferences regarding cancer treatment. Patients frequently find themselves making trade-offs among various attributes of a treatment, aligning these decisions with their personal values and beliefs. By considering these preferences and trade-offs in future studies that measure patient preferences, healthcare professionals can enhance their support for patients in making informed choices that align with their values and priorities. Additionally, healthcare policymakers can develop patient-centered policies that cater to the unique needs and preferences of breast cancer patients.

Bladder cancer patient and provider perspectives on smoking cessation

BackgroundSmoking is the most common risk factor for bladder cancer and is associated with adverse clinical and cancer-related outcomes. Increasing understanding of the patient and provider perspectives on smoking cessation may provide insight into improving smoking cessation rates among bladder cancer survivors. We sought to inform strategies for providers promoting cessation efforts and help patients quit smoking. MethodsUsing a modified Delphi process with multidisciplinary input from bladder cancer providers, researchers, and a patient advocate, 2 surveys were created for bladder cancer patients and providers. Surveys included multiple-choice questions and free answers. The survey was administered electronically and queried participants’ perspectives on barriers and facilitators associated with smoking cessation. Survey responses were anonymous, and participants were provided with a $20 Amazon gift card for participating. Patients were approached through the previously established Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) Patient Survey Network, an online bladder cancer patient and caregiver community. Providers were recruited from the Society of Urologic Oncology (SUO) and the Large Urology Group Practice Association (LUGPA). ResultsFrom May to June 2021, 308 patients and 103 providers completed their respective surveys. Among patients who quit smoking, most (64%) preferred no pharmacologic intervention (“cold turkey”) followed by nicotine replacement therapy (28%). Repeated efforts at cessation commonly occurred, and 67% reported making more than one attempt at quitting prior to eventual smoking cessation. Approximately 1 in 10 patients were unaware of the association between bladder cancer and smoking. Among providers, 75% felt that barriers to provide cessation include a lack of clinical time, adequate training, and reimbursement concerns. However, 79% of providers endorsed a willingness to receive continuing education on smoking cessation. ConclusionsBladder cancer patients utilize a variety of cessation strategies with “cold turkey” being the most used method, and many patients make multiple attempts at smoking cessation. Providers confront multiple barriers to conducting smoking cessation, including inadequate time and training in cessation methods; however, most would be willing to receive additional education. These results inform future interventions tailored to bladder cancer clinicians to better support provider efforts to provide smoking cessation counseling.

Role of Cultural Health Capital in Coping with Cancer: Perspective of Cancer Patients at Lahore, Pakistan

This research study aimed at correlating cultural health capital (CHC) and coping mechanisms with cancer patients in Pakistan using the framework of cultural health capital. The research aimed at understanding the concept of cultural health capital and its relation to coping mechanisms. A purposive non-random technique has been employed, where data was collected from 95 cancer patients who have undergone chemotherapy. A quantitative research method for data accumulation was aided by a developed questionnaire with two distinct portions. The first part was used to assess cultural health capital using the variables institutionalized cultural capital, objective and incorporated cultural capital, and a scale for coping Mechanisms. A self-developed questionnaire was used along with the Cope Scale to measure cultural health Capital. Data analysis was conducted using linear Regression. Data was collected from 95 respondents (51 females and 44 males) falling in the age bracket of 41-50. The findings of the study show a weak relationship between cultural health capital and coping mechanisms. Despite the presence of cultural health capital, it is not found to be a significant factor in coping with cancer. Religion was found to be a vital coping strategy used by cancer patients. Future studies can undermine the barriers to the utilization of CHC for coping purposes

Exploring the perspectives of cancer patients parenting minor children: A qualitative study on family-centered cancer care experiences

ObjectivesParents with cancer experience not only disease-related burden but also child- and family-related concerns. According to the German guidelines, all professionals working in oncology are responsible for addressing these burdens and needs and for involving the patient’s relatives. This study aims to explore patients’ perspectives on their experiences regarding family-centeredness in cancer care. MethodsWe conducted interviews with 18 cancer patients parenting at least one minor child (< 18). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. ResultsMost parents reported that their healthcare professionals (HCPs) rarely or not routinely discussed family issues. There was a wide range of ways in which HCPs communicated about family issues. Parents often felt unsure about professionals’ responsibilities and many of them expressed a desire for more proactive communication. ConclusionsThe findings suggest that the majority of patients have unmet needs related to comprehensive care as parents. Practice implicationsHCPs need to be sensitized to identify parents facing additional burdens and needs. It is essential that HCPs clarify parents’ preferences regarding the extent of involvement of family issues in cancer care.

Cancer care pathways mapping and dissemination toolkit: lessons learnt from cancer services in NSW, Australia.

Gaps and complexities exist in cancer referral and diagnosis in Australia, leading to delays in cancer treatments. Developing evidence-based referral pathways is important for promoting better and more timely cancer diagnosis and care. Type of program or service: This paper describes a toolkit endorsed by the Cancer Institute NSW as a guide for promoting best practice in localising cancer referral and diagnosis pathways in line with the national Optimal Care Pathways. Use of toolkit: Employing methods in the toolkit yielded an increased understanding of cancer care pathways, strengthened collaboration between tertiary and primary sector stakeholders, and enhanced the project skills of Cancer System Innovation Managers. The toolkit has become a valuable guide for consolidating referral pathways for various cancers in the NSW local health districts and could apply to cancer services in other jurisdictions. The pilot project showed that the toolkit is useful in developing referral pathways and reflects best stakeholder engagement practices. Local evidence should be generated to support systematic change and should include the perspectives of cancer patients and clinicians. NSW local health districts continue to use the toolkit methods to optimise care to improve outcomes for people living with cancer.

Cancer Patient Perspectives on the Meaning of Healing and the Clinician as a Healer.

The experience of living with cancer is marked by suffering and loss, which creates a need for healing. Understanding what healing means to patients and how clinicians can play a role in the healing process is essential to holistic cancer care. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of cancer patients on the meaning and experiences of healing and the qualities of a clinician and the clinician-patient relationship that are healing. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 14 cancer patients. Participants were asked about their illness experience, definition of healing, qualities of a healer, and relationships with clinicians that were healing. Interview transcripts were coded, and qualitative analysis was conducted to identify major themes. Participants defined the nature of healing as comprising aspects of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Participants described healing as alleviating pain and symptoms; promoting mental strength, emotional comfort, and spiritual connection; restoring and adapting to losses; and improving quality of life. The qualities of a clinician that contributed to a healing relationship included listening, empathy and compassion, understanding patients' values and goals, and caring for the patient as a whole person. Participants viewed healing as physical, psychosocial, and spiritual in nature and an important part of their cancer experience with an emphasis on quality of life. Clinicians played an important role beyond treating the cancer by helping in the healing process through their humanistic qualities and holistic approach to patient care.

Catastrophic Health Expenditure (CHE) among Cancer Population in a Middle Income Country with Universal Healthcare Financing.

The study investigated healthcare expenditure from the perspective of cancer patients, to determine the level of Catastrophic Health Expenditure (CHE) and its associated factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted in three Malaysian public hospitals namely Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz and the National Cancer Institute using a multi-level sampling technique to recruit 630 respondents from February 2020 to February 2021. CHE was defined as incurring a monthly health expenditure of more than 10% of the total monthly household expenditure. A validated questionnaire was used to collect the relevant data. The CHE level was 54.4%. CHE was higher among patients of Indian ethnicity (P = 0.015), lower level education (P = 0.001), those unemployed (P < 0.001), lower income (P < 0.001), those in poverty (P < 0.001), those staying far from the hospital (P < 0.001), living in rural areas (P = 0.003), small household size (P = 0.029), moderate cancer duration (P = 0.030), received radiotherapy treatment (P < 0.001), had very frequent treatment (P < 0.001), and without a Guarantee Letter (GL) (P < 0.001). The regression analysis identified significant predictors of CHE as lower income aOR 18.63 (CI 5.71-60.78), middle income aOR 4.67 (CI 1.52-14.41), poverty income aOR 4.66 (CI 2.60-8.33), staying far from hospital aOR 2.62 (CI 1.58-4.34), chemotherapy aOR 3.70 (CI 2.01-6.82), radiotherapy aOR 2.99 (CI 1.37-6.57), combination chemo-radiotherapy aOR 4.99 (CI 1.48-16.87), health insurance aOR 3.99 (CI 2.31-6.90), without GL aOR 3.38 (CI 2.06-5.40), and without health financial aids aOR 2.94 (CI 1.24-6.96). CHE is related to various sociodemographic, economic, disease, treatment and presence of health insurance, GL and health financial aids variables in Malaysia.

Jordanian Patients’ Perspectives of the Role of Complementary Medicine in the Treatment of Cancer

Background: In recent years, Jordan has seen a rise in the prevalence of cancer cases. Many Jordanian cancer patients have reported a readiness to try to alleviate their symptoms, and thus improve their quality of life by adopting a blend of traditional, complementary and integrative (TCI) medicines. Currently, hospitals in Jordan offer no or limited complementary medicine (CM) services as part of oncology or palliative cancer care. Purpose: This study examines the perspectives of Jordanian cancer patients regarding the desirability of integrating a range of CM approaches with the conventional treatments offered by hospitals. Methods: In this descriptive study, 253 patients formed a convenient sample and were asked to complete the Questionnaire on Integrating Complementary Medicine in Oncology Treatment. Results: More than 40% of the patients were found to have used CM during chemo or radiotherapy. Different types of herbal medicine were the most used treatments. More than a half of the participants showed willingness to seek advice from healthcare professionals on the use of CM for cancer treatment if it was integrated into their oncology treatment. Participants expected CM to improve their symptoms of pain, nausea and vomiting, as well as changes in appetite. Conclusion: Since there can be some safety issues involved with CM approaches, training should be given to care providers on how to best help their cancer patients based on evidence-based culturally sensitive consultation. Implications for Nursing: More research is needed to be done into the perspectives of healthcare providers and care givers on CM use and its usefulness alongside the conventional medical treatments.

The Europa Uomo Patient Reported Outcome Study 2.0—Prostate Cancer Patient-reported Outcomes to Support Treatment Decision-making

BackgroundTo further strengthen the voice of patients, Europa Uomo initiated the Europa Uomo Patient Reported Outcome Study 2.0 (EUPROMS 2.0) in October 2021. ObjectiveTo collect the self-reported perspective of prostate cancer (PCa) patients on physical and mental well-being after PCa treatment outside a clinical trial setting to inform future fellow patients about the impact of PCa treatment. Design, setting, and participantsEuropa Uomo invited PCa patients to complete a cross-sectional survey including the validated EQ-5D-5L, EORTC-QLQ-C30, and the EPIC-26 questionnaires. Furthermore, the nine-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9) and diagnostic clinical scenarios were included. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisDescriptive statistics was used to assess the demographic and clinical characteristics and to analyze the patient-reported outcome data. Results and limitationsBetween October 25, 2021 and January 17, 2022, 3571 men from 30 countries completed the EUPROMS 2.0 survey. The median age of respondents was 70 yr (interquartile range 65–75 yr). Half of the respondents underwent one treatment, most often radical prostatectomy. Men who are treated actively experience lower health-related quality of life than men on active surveillance, mainly regarding sexual function, fatigue, and insomnia. Lower urinary incontinence levels were seen for men who underwent radical prostatectomy (single treatment or in combination with other treatments). Of the respondents, 42% indicated that the determination of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value was part of a routine blood test; 25% wanted to undergo screening/early detection for PCa, and 20% indicated that the determination of the PSA value had a clinical reason. ConclusionsA large sample of 3571 international patients has contributed patient experience after PCa treatment in the EUPROMS 2.0 study, confirming that treatment for PCa mainly affects urinary incontinence, sexual function, fatigue, and insomnia. Such information can be used to direct toward a better patient-doctor relationship, to offer patients ready access to responsible information and a better understanding of their disease and treatment. Patient summaryThrough the EUPROMS 2.0 survey, Europa Uomo has strengthened the voice of the patient. Such information can be used to inform future prostate cancer (PCa) patients about the impact of PCa treatment and to engage them in informed and shared decision-making.

Perspectives and Knowledge about Fertility Preservation Strategies among Female Cancer Patients in Turkey.

To evaluate the knowledge level and perspectives of female cancer patients regarding fertility preservation techniques before gonadotoxic treatment. Material and Methods. This was a prospective observational survey-based study conducted between 2016 and 2020 in Izmir Economy University Medical Park Hospital. A total of 150 female cancer patients aged 18-42 years were included. The participants completed a 17-item questionnaire, developed by the research team to evaluate their knowledge and perspectives on fertility preservation techniques. The mean age of the patients was 39.5 ± 4.9 years. Only 64.7% of the patients were referred to fertility counseling by a gynecologist, while 72.6% of the patients knew of the risk of infertility after cancer treatment. There was a significant correlation between the health status and cancer stage of the patient (p=0.003). The estimated future chance of becoming pregnant spontaneously or through fertility preservation techniques was significantly higher in patients with a higher education level (p=0.041 or 0.008, respectively). Satisfaction with the counseling process was reported as high or low by 66.7% or 20% of the patients, respectively. The rate of referral of reproductive-age cancer patients to fertility preservation counseling is still not satisfactory. Education level was the only variable significantly associated with a motivation to become pregnant after cancer treatment, either spontaneously or through fertility preservation techniques.

A Thematic Analysis on an Exploration of Concerns of Cancer Patients and their Caregivers in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: COVID-19, a pandemic prevalent for a long time presents a multistep crisis;the first stage is an acute health crisis, followed by a healthcare recovery crisis in the second stage and a socio-economic crisis in an indefinite period. The study explores the challenges and specific concerns among patients diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers during the pandemic. Materials and Method: Qualitative research employs specific research methods such as in-depth interviews, content analysis, observation methods, and life histories or biographies to examine people’s experiences in detail. In the present study, a semi-structured questionnaire was developed and interviews were conductedto understand the experiences of cancer patients andtheir caregivers with health care and their daily challenges during the pandemic. A Non-random sampling method, involving males and females, within the age group of 18 to 65 years, and their primary care providers from the Regional Cancer Centre and other cancer hospitals are followed. Semistructured interview responses were collected from cancer patients and their caregivers., illustrative quotes were summarised and key themes from the interviews were extracted. Results and analysis: 9 Key themes with 20 subthemes were extracted in the content analysis. Difficulty having access to medical care, fear of infection transmission, lack of social support, loss of income source, drastic lifestyle changes, uncertainty about disease cure, and apprehension about the future,which result in cumulative disease burdenhave been frequently reported in the study.Conclusion: The current research is relevant in describing the experiences and perspectives of cancer patients and their caregivers, throwing light on the psychosocial issues and challenges during the pandemic situation, thus emphasizing the need for developing a supportive psychosocial intervention.