Voices of Survivorship: The Unmet Needs of Italian Cancer Survivors. A Qualitative Study

The increasing number of cancer survivors (CSs) globally highlights the critical need for healthcare systems to address their unmet needs. These needs span physical, psychosocial, spiritual, informational, and practical dimensions and, if unaddressed, can impact quality of life and healthcare satisfaction.

This study aimed to identify and understand the unmet needs of CSs in Italy to guide the development of patient-centered survivorship care services.

A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted between April 2023 and January 2024 at the Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Reggio Emilia, Italy. Data were collected through focus groups and individual interviews with 35 CSs and seven caregivers selected via convenience sampling. Eligibility criteria included non-cutaneous CSs with a 5-year survival rate of ≥ 65% who had completed active treatment and were in follow-up care. Data were analyzed using the Framework Method.

Four key themes emerged: (1) Dignity and Respect: Emphasis on the importance of treating CSs with dignity and respect within healthcare settings; (2) Desire for Normality: Highlighting CSs' strong desire to regain a sense of normalcy post-treatment; (3) Pursuit of Control Over One's Life: CSs' need to maintain control, particularly regarding information needs and treatment management; (4) Existential Vulnerability: The vulnerability and fragility felt by CSs, underscoring their need for emotional support and reassurance.

Unmet needs remain a significant challenge for CSs, necessitating the implementation of tailored, patient-centered care interventions. Addressing these needs can enhance quality of life, satisfaction, and outcomes for CSs worldwide.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06236373.