Long-term quality of life in Australian women previously diagnosed with gynaecologic cancer

Abstract

Despite limitations, these data shed light on challenges to QOL of a heterogeneous group of gynaecologic cancer survivors. Sexual and psychological morbidity outcomes compare favourably with the literature while body image disturbance may present a useful target for clinical intervention.

Women’s Perceptions of Their Lifestyle and Quality of Life Several Years After a Diagnosis of Endometrial Cancer

“…E ndometrial cancer is a common form of gynecologic cancer, originating in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. 9,10 In 2 studies, emotional QoL among women with endometrial cancer was comparable by 5 years after diagnosis to women without cancer, 11 but younger women with endometrial cancer were found to have higher distress than older women either with or without cancer. 2 Quantitative surveys show reduced physical health during endometrial cancer treatment 3 and up to 2 years later 4,5 ; however, by 5 years after treatment, physical health-related quality of life (QoL) appears comparable to general population norms.…”

“…7,8 However, there is little evidence specific to women with endometrial cancer that examines long-term emotional adjustment. Although other quantitative studies of women with gynecologic cancer have also identified aspects of positive change, 10,15 most studies have focused on negative changes. 12 Adjustment to cancer can be complex, and a diagnosis of cancer can lead to both negative and positive physical, emotional, social, and spiritual changes, which may lead to fluctuations in QoL.…”

Body image disturbance in adults treated for cancer – a concept analysis

“…Although used somewhat frequently in reference to adults who have been treated for cancer, no clear definitions of body image disturbance were found (Anagnostopoulos & Myrgianni , Shoma et al . , Stafford & Judd , Hazewinkel et al . , Kim et al .…”

“…More specifically, body image disturbance has been significantly associated with problems with speech and eating (Fingeret et al . ), poorer sexual satisfaction (Stafford & Judd ), severe defecation symptoms (Hazewinkel et al . ) and total gastrectomy as opposed to subtotal gastrectomy (Kim et al .…”

Should Every Woman with Gynecologic Cancer Undergo Routine Screening for Psychological Distress and Sexual Dysfunction?

“…Data from women previously diagnosed with gynecologic cancer show that 87 % have at least one unmet need and 25-30 % have an unmet need for assistance with worry about cancer recurrence, reducing stress in their lives or concerns about communication in the healthcare team [ 60 ]. It would be unacceptable to deny these individuals access to psychological help on the basis of suffering from serious adjustment problems rather than a psychiatric disorder [ 10 ].…”