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Experiences of Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment Across Cancer Types: Qualitative Systematic Review
Maryam Ibrar1, Harleen Kaur Rai2, Ashleigh Main1
1University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
JMIR Cancer
|October 31, 2025
Summary
Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) significantly impacts cancer survivors
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) affects a significant portion of cancer patients, persisting even after treatment.
- Commonly reported issues include memory, attention, and executive function deficits, reducing quality of life (QoL).
- CRCI is underresearched, limiting understanding of patient experiences across diverse cancer types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize qualitative evidence on the lived experience of CRCI across cancer types.
- To explore subjective experiences of CRCI in cancer populations.
- To identify cognitive domains affected and impacts on QoL and functional ability.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a qualitative systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched major databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Scopus) for studies from 2013-2025.
- Utilized thematic analysis on 51 included qualitative or mixed-methods studies.
Main Results:
- Identified four key themes: cognitive challenges, navigating employment, emotional/behavioral/psychological impacts, and support systems.
- Breast cancer was the most studied group (n=32).
- CRCI negatively impacts QoL and function, with a noted lack of resources for management.
Conclusions:
- CRCI significantly disrupts daily life for cancer survivors.
- Highlights the need for increased awareness, standardized screening, and research into digital interventions for CRCI.
- Improved CRCI management can aid survivors' reintegration into daily life and employment.
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