Optimization of Function and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adult Cancer Survivors
Abstract
A large subset of cancer survivors experience acute, long-term, and/or late effects, as well as comorbid health conditions, which can negatively impact their function and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). This series of studies evaluated approaches developed to optimize function and HRQOL in adult cancer survivors in the healthcare setting and the workplace. Studies. Studies 1 and 2 focused on the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Amendments Act (U.S. workplace discrimination law) in cancer survivors; both studies utilized logistic regressions to examine ADA claims information. Study 1 evaluated the association between the Amendments Act passage and claims filed by cancer survivors. Findings indicated that discrimination allegations were more likely to be filed in the areas of workplace relations (OR = 1.48, 95 CI = 1.23-1.78) and terms of employment (OR = 1.34; 95 CI = 1.11-1.61) under the Amendments Act. Study 2 examined protections for cancer survivors with comorbid health conditions under the Amendments Act. Findings indicated that cancer survivors with comorbidities were more likely to file claims related to the terms of their employment (OR = 1.37, 95 CI = 1.041.80) than cancer survivors without comorbidities. Study 3 focused on developing a communication and self-management tool (CSPro app) to help address unmet needs post-active treatment for breast cancer. This study included app development, collection of breast cancer survivor and nurse perceptions of the app within a clinical oncology setting, and changes made to the app based on this feedback. Findings indicated that the CSPro app was efficient, comprehensive, and well-received by both nurse navigators and cancer survivors. Implications. This programmatic series of studies indicates that current approaches to optimization of function and HRQOL in the healthcare and work contexts are helpful but not sufficient. It also suggests adjuncts to these approaches,
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 05, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1128302
Entities
People
- Amanda Gehrke
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences