Cancer survivors’ needs during various treatment phases after multimodal treatment for colon cancer - is there a role for eHealth?

Abstract

BackgroundMore colon cancer patients are expected to fully recover after treatment due to earlier detection of cancer and improvements in general health- and cancer care. The objective of this study was to gather participants’ experiences with full recovery in the different treatment phases of multimodal treatment and to identify their needs during these phases. The second aim was to propose and evaluate possible solutions for unmet needs by the introduction of eHealth.MethodsA qualitative study based on two focus group discussions with 22 participants was performed. The validated Supportive Care Needs Survey and the Cancer Treatment Survey were used to form the topic list. The verbatim transcripts were analyzed with Atlas.ti. 7th version comprising open, axial and selective coding. The guidelines of the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) were used.ResultsExperiences with the treatment for colon cancer were in general positive. Most important unmet needs were ‘receiving information about the total duration of side effects’, ‘receiving information about the minimum amount of chemo needed to overall survival’ and ‘receiving a longer aftercare period (with additional attention for psychological guidance)’. More provision of information online, a chat function with the oncological nurse specialist via a website, and access to scientific articles regarding the optimal dose of chemotherapy were often mentioned as worthwhile additions to the current health care for colon cancer.ConclusionsMany of the unmet needs of colon cancer survivors occur during the adjuvant treatment phase and thereafter. To further optimize recovery and cancer care, it is necessary to have more focus on these unmet needs. More attention for identifying patients’ problems and side-effects during chemotherapy; and identifying patients’ supportive care needs after finishing chemotherapy are necessary. For some of these needs, eHealth in the form of blended care will be a possible solution.

Individualized blended care for patients with colorectal cancer: the patient’s view on informational support

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Characterization of an Amphiphilic Phosphonated Calixarene Carrier Loaded With Carboplatin and Paclitaxel: A Preliminary Study to Treat Colon Cancer in vitro and in vivo

“…Colorectal cancer (colon cancer) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer death, making up about 10% of all cancer cases (den Bakker et al, 2018). In 2012, its global mortality rate was estimated at more than 600,000 per year, and its incidence has increased over the last 25 years (Yodkeeree et al, 2009).…”

Factors Influencing Supportive Care Needs of Colorectal Cancer Survivors

“…This was similar to results of Kotronoulas et al (2017) [8] on patients undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer. Either during treatment or after treatment, information should be obtained by contacting medical staff [29].…”