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Surviving adult cancers. Part 1: Physiologic effects.
L J Loescher1, D Welch-McCaffrey, S A Leigh
1Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson.
Annals of Internal Medicine
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Adult cancer survivors face numerous long-term and late physiologic effects from cancer treatments. Healthcare providers must recognize these potential complications and conduct thorough follow-up care for improved survivorship outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Survivorship Research
- Physiology
Background:
- Extensive literature exists on acute cancer and treatment effects.
- Limited data define long-term and late physiologic sequelae in adult cancer survivors.
- These effects can impact virtually any body system post-treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the medical and nursing literature on long-term and late physiologic effects of adult cancers and their treatments.
- To synthesize current knowledge on survivorship issues in adult cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE and Index Medicus (1980-1988).
- Consensus review of 285 selected articles by four observers.
- Assessment using predetermined criteria for long-term and late effects.
Main Results:
- Few prospective studies address physiologic survivorship issues.
- Long-term and late effects can manifest months or years after treatment cessation.
- Physiologic sequelae may affect any organ system in adult cancer survivors.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers must be aware of potential long-term complications in the growing population of cancer survivors.
- Careful management during acute treatment and diligent follow-up are crucial for prevention and management.
- Increased prospective research is needed in cancer survivorship physiology.