A mixed-method systematic review of unmet care and support needs among Japanese cancer survivors

To synthesize published studies regarding Japanese cancer survivors' needs/unmet needs of care/support, change of unmet needs over time, and preferred care/support providers.

A mixed-method systematic review was conducted. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Ichu-shi were searched from inception to May 2022. Quantitative and qualitative studies were separately analyzed using narrative synthesis and meta-ethnography. Each finding was synthesized using a line of argument.

Twenty-four studies (13 quantitative and 11 qualitative studies) were included. Six quantitative studies reported unmet needs in survivors of adolescent and young adult (n=1) and adulthood (n=5) cancer. No longitudinal studies regarding changes in unmet needs were identified. One study reported that adults preferred care/support providers. The quantitative studies identified more help in physical (48.2-51.0%, n=2) and psychological issues (17.4-78.8%, n=5), information (27.9-58.0%, n=3), and healthcare services (25.3-67.1%, n=2) among adults. The qualitative studies emphasized more tailor-made information about life events for young cancer survivors. More empathic and trustworthy interactions with surrounding people, including healthcare professionals, were demanded, regardless of age. A line of argument illustrated that cancer survivors had insufficient resources for activities and empowerment to face life with cancer at all phases.

Japanese cancer survivors' unmet needs are diverse. More information and resources for psychological care/support and local healthcare services post-treatment are needed, which may hinder the optimal transition to survivorship.

The synthesized evidence should be utilized to implement a comprehensive care/support system in practice and educate people surrounding cancer survivors, regardless of age.