Cancer survivor rehabilitation and recovery: Protocol for the Veterans Cancer Rehabilitation Study (Vet-CaRes)

Abstract

BackgroundCancer survivors are a rapidly growing and aging population in the U.S., but there are many challenges associated with the survivorship experience such as functional disabilities and psychosocial distress. When viewed next to the general population, Veterans are especially at risk for these challenges as they are older and have a high incidence of co-morbid conditions. While the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has called for further cancer survivorship research to address these challenges, we still know little about this experience from the perspective of aging Veterans.Methods/designWe conducted a longitudinal, mixed-methods study over the course of three and a half years at the Boston and Houston VA Medical Centers. We recruited 170 Veterans diagnosed with head and neck, colorectal and esophageal/gastric cancers that were identified from the VA tumor registry. Veterans completed three in-depth interviews, conducted at 6, 12 and 18 months after pathology confirmation, measuring the physical, social and psychological factors related to cancer survivorship. The longitudinal design allowed us to assess any changes in cancer related disability and distress over time.DiscussionWeekly teleconference study team meetings were a key aspect to the research process. Issues related to recruitment, data management and analysis, and the dissemination of research results was discussed. Interviewers presented detailed case reports of completed interviews that allowed us to refine our interview protocols. We also discussed issues relevant to the Veteran population of which we were previously unaware and some of the challenges of the research process itself. This novel study produced a robust data set that documents the functional and psychosocial cancer survivorship experiences of aging Veterans. The longitudinal design will help us more fully understand the recovery patterns for this specific population, and identify the unique needs and gaps in health services.

Body image satisfaction among male military veterans with cancer

“…Similarly, two female veterans from the initial study sample were excluded from the present analyses. Sample size was determined on the basis of power analyses (these methods are described elsewhere; Naik, et al, 2013). …”

The effects of age, education, and treatment on physical, sexual and body concern symptoms among multimorbid, colorectal cancer survivors

“…Sample size was determined on the basis of power analyses; complete protocol methods, including nonresponder information, are described elsewhere. 2 In brief, participants completed comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments at 6, 12, and 18 months after diagnosis for head and neck, esophageal, gastric, and colorectal cancer, confirmed by pathology.…”

“…1 With enhanced survival, quality of life is an increasingly important outcome, particularly for older adults. 2 Validated CRC-specific quality-of-life surveys include side-effects (treatment and cancer related) presenting as distinct symptoms that impact daily function and activities. 3,4 They also assess emotional well-being in terms of body image, functional status, and future perspective.…”

Perceived and actual change in religion/spirituality in cancer survivors: Longitudinal relationships with distress and perceived growth.

“…Interviews were administered in-person or over the telephone ( n = 7) and lasted approximately 2 hours each. More detailed protocol methods are reported elsewhere (Naik et al, 2013). …”