Living Experiences of Indian Adult Cancer Survivors - a Brief Report

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> This pilot study looked into the physical, social, psychological and economic issues of Indian adultcancer survivors. Materials and <br/><b>Methods</b>: Assumed cancer free patients, after cancer directed therapy (CDT),were assessed on the basis of a questionnaire developed by the investigators. The mental status of the survivorswas elicited by modified MINI international neuro-psychiatric interview. This cross sectional assessment wasconducted as a direct interaction with each patient for 30 to 45 minutes at a cancer hospital in 2012. <br/><b>Results</b>:Thirty one adult cancer survivors participated in this study. Median age was 53 years with a median follow upduration of 21.8 months (Range 2.3-194.1 months). The majority (68%) did not receive financial support fortreatment. Median interval after CDT to start of activity of daily living was 1.5 months (range: 0-24 months).Fatigue and loss of appetite were reported by 52% and 29% respectively. The cancer diagnosis and its treatmentadversely impacted the financial condition in 42% of patients. Nineteen percent each showed social anxiety andpost-traumatic stress disorder and another 13% patients reported depression. <br/><b>Conclusions</b>: This prospectiveassessment highlights survivorship issues and the need to address those issues particularly in the context ofdeveloping countries where resources and manpower are limited.