INTRODUCTION: Lung cancer is associated with higher levels of symptom distress and unmet needs than other cancer types. We assessed changes in symptoms, function, understanding, and preferences of patients with advanced lung cancer over a 10-year period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 26-item self-administered questionnaire was used to assess symptom burden, functional impairment, knowledge of disease and treatment, and information preferences. The survey was administered to consecutive outpatients with advanced lung cancer first in 2002 and a second cohort in 2012. RESULTS: A total of 108 patients with advanced lung cancer were surveyed in 2002, and 100 in 2012. Rates of severe physical symptoms were similar over the 10-year period. The most common symptoms remained fatigue, cough, and dyspnea. One-third perceived major impairment of daily activities from lung cancer. Significant anxiety was reported by at least 20%; nearly a quarter reported being unable to meet family needs. More patients in 2012 received information on treatment benefits, side effects, and clinical trials. Only 40% reported having end-of-life wishes, and fewer than half had discussed these with their oncologist. Over time, more patients expressed a preference for treatment associated with increased survival even if it compromised quality of life. Half were interested in Internet-based resources, most in print media, and a growing number in telephone support. CONCLUSION: Patients with advanced lung cancer continue to experience significant symptom distress and unmet needs despite advances in treatment. Comprehensive assessment and symptom, psychological, financial, and information support remain key areas for improvement in the care of patients with advanced lung cancer.
INTRODUCTION:Lung cancer is associated with higher levels of symptom distress and unmet needs than other cancer types. We assessed changes in symptoms, function, understanding, and preferences of patients with advanced lung cancer over a 10-year period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 26-item self-administered questionnaire was used to assess symptom burden, functional impairment, knowledge of disease and treatment, and information preferences. The survey was administered to consecutive outpatients with advanced lung cancer first in 2002 and a second cohort in 2012. RESULTS: A total of 108 patients with advanced lung cancer were surveyed in 2002, and 100 in 2012. Rates of severe physical symptoms were similar over the 10-year period. The most common symptoms remained fatigue, cough, and dyspnea. One-third perceived major impairment of daily activities from lung cancer. Significant anxiety was reported by at least 20%; nearly a quarter reported being unable to meet family needs. More patients in 2012 received information on treatment benefits, side effects, and clinical trials. Only 40% reported having end-of-life wishes, and fewer than half had discussed these with their oncologist. Over time, more patients expressed a preference for treatment associated with increased survival even if it compromised quality of life. Half were interested in Internet-based resources, most in print media, and a growing number in telephone support. CONCLUSION:Patients with advanced lung cancer continue to experience significant symptom distress and unmet needs despite advances in treatment. Comprehensive assessment and symptom, psychological, financial, and information support remain key areas for improvement in the care of patients with advanced lung cancer.
Authors: Laurie E Steffen; Jennifer S Cheavens; Kevin E Vowles; Jennifer Gabbard; Huynh Nguyen; Gregory N Gan; Martin J Edelman; Bruce W Smith Journal: Support Care Cancer Date: 2019-06-01 Impact factor: 3.603
Authors: Barbara L Andersen; Joseph P McElroy; David P Carbone; Carolyn J Presley; Rachel M Smith; Peter G Shields; Guy N Brock Journal: Psychosom Med Date: 2022 Feb-Mar 01 Impact factor: 3.864
Authors: Mary E Cooley; Emanuele Mazzola; Niya Xiong; Fangxin Hong; David F Lobach; Ilana M Braun; Barbara Halpenny; Michael S Rabin; Ellis Johns; Kathleen Finn; Donna Berry; Ruth McCorkle; Janet L Abrahm Journal: J Pain Symptom Manage Date: 2021-12-16 Impact factor: 5.576
Authors: J C Kuo; D M Graham; A Salvarrey; F Kassam; L W Le; F A Shepherd; R Burkes; P J Hollen; R J Gralla; N B Leighl Journal: Curr Oncol Date: 2020-05-01 Impact factor: 3.677
Authors: Laurie E McLouth; Kaitlyn Weyman; Shannon L Golden; Jennifer S Cheavens; Amy Peterman; Vilma Bursac; Jennifer Gabbard; Kathryn E Weaver Journal: Psychooncology Date: 2021-02-26 Impact factor: 3.955