Exploring the impact of physical, emotional, and practical changes following treatment on the daily lives of cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE: To understand the impact of changes following treatment on daily lives of cancer survivors. METHODS: A national survey was conducted with cancer survivors about experiences with follow-up care. The survey included open-ended questions about changes in daily lives following treatment. A qualitative descriptive analysis was completed with the written comments. RESULTS: A total of 4575 individuals (33.8% of survey respondents) wrote about impact of changes following cancer treatment. Sixty-one percent were females. Breast (35.2%) and colorectal (17.7%) cancer accounted for largest respondent groups. Survivors identified a myriad of physical, emotional, and practical changes. Impacts on daily living occurred from changes in each domain with change in one area impacting others as well. Predominant issues included physical limitations, mood swings, fear of recurrence, return to work, and financial burdens. IMPLICATIONS: Cancer survivors can experience a range of changes following cancer treatment that impact on their daily lives. Individualized assessment and tailored plans for follow-up are recommended.