Predictors and consequences of symptom reporting behaviors in colorectal cancer patients

Data from a sample of 294 colorectal cancer patients were used to examine factors influencing symptom reporting. The number of symptoms reported spontaneously by the subjects in response to open-ended questions was compared with the total number of symptoms reported using this technique plus a variety of other techniques. Fifty-four percent of the total number of symptoms were reported spontaneously by the subjects. Subject and symptom characteristics were examined for an association with symptom reporting patterns. Subject characteristics associated with spontaneous reporting were socioeconomic status (SES), prior health status, and psychological status at the time of the interview; age and sex were not related to symptom reporting. The best predictors of symptom reporting were symptom characteristics, with symptoms that were severe, unusual, and developed quickly reported more often. Incomplete symptom reports also were associated with inaccurate estimates of patient delay. Implications of these findings for medical practice and for future research are discussed.