The Perceptions of Australian Oncologists Regarding Cognitive Changes in Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Background: With survivorship increasingly recognised as a distinct phase of cancer care, uncertainty has emerged within the oncology community regarding the roles and responsibilities of those caring for cancer survivors. Consequently, many cancer survivors are ill-informed of the potential challenges associated with the survivorship phase. Cognitive changes experienced by cancer survivors have received growing attention as a survivorship issue. Though often subtle in nature, cancer related cognitive changes (CRCC) can have a profound impact on a cancer survivor’s quality of life (QOL). Nonetheless, cancer survivors report receiving limited information by treating oncologists regarding this phenomenon. Aim: To explore the perceptions of oncology specialists regarding CRCC, and how their views may influence decisions about patient care. Overview of the Thesis: The thesis is divided into two sections. Section I is a review of the existing and relevant literature relating to CRCC and their effects on cancer survivors’ QOL, with a particular focus on the survivorship phase. A description of the search strategies used to locate literature is also included. Section II is a manuscript formatted for submission to the journal Psycho-Oncology. This manuscript outlines the findings of a qualitative study exploring oncologists’ understandings of CRCC, and their perceived role in the management of cancer survivors’ cognitive concerns across the continuum of cancer care. Findings from the project as a whole demonstrate the uncertainty of oncology specialists regarding the appropriate management of CRCC, and the need for specific interventions and clinical practice guidelines to address the effects of CRCC on cancer survivors’ daily functioning and QOL.