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The Development and Evaluation of a Patient Educational Resource for Cancer-Related Cognitive Dysfunction
Eleenor H Abraham1,2, Bilal Khan1, Erick Ling3
1Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
An educational booklet significantly improved cancer patients' knowledge of cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD). This resource helps patients understand and manage cognitive challenges, enhancing their quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Health Education
Background:
- Cancer patients and survivors often experience cognitive deficits, termed cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD), impacting attention and memory.
- CRCD is associated with significant patient distress and can negatively affect quality of life.
- Effective self-management strategies and accessible information are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an educational resource designed to increase cancer patients' knowledge of CRCD.
- To assess the impact of the resource on self-reported CRCD knowledge and patient perceptions.
- To determine if the resource effectively bridges knowledge gaps across different educational attainment levels.
Main Methods:
- An evidence-based educational booklet on CRCD was developed.
- 113 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy reviewed the booklet.
- Self-reported CRCD knowledge was measured before and after booklet exposure using validated assessments.
Main Results:
- 75% of participants reported increased CRCD knowledge after reading the booklet.
- Statistical analysis confirmed a significant increase in self-reported knowledge (p < 0.001).
- Knowledge gains were observed across all educational attainment levels, indicating broad applicability.
Conclusions:
- The developed educational booklet is an effective tool for enhancing CRCD knowledge among cancer patients.
- This resource empowers patients with information to better understand and manage cognitive challenges.
- The booklet has the potential to improve self-rated knowledge and support quality of life for a diverse patient population.
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