The Symptom Experience in Rectal Cancer Survivors

Abstract Context As the number of rectal cancer survivors grows, it's important to understand the symptom experience posttreatment. While data show that rectal cancer survivors experience a variety of symptoms post diagnosis, little has been done to study the way these symptoms are grouped and associated. Objectives To determine symptom prevalence and intensity in rectal cancer survivors and if clusters of survivors exist, who share similar symptom defined survivor subgroups that may vary based upon antecedent variables. Methods A secondary analysis of the Cancer Care and Outcomes Research and Surveillance (CanCORS) database was undertaken. Cluster analysis was performed on 15 month post diagnosis data to form posttreatment survivor subgroups, these were examined for differences in demographic and clinical characteristics. Data were analyzed using cluster analysis, Chi-Square, and analysis of variance. Results A total of 275 rectal cancer survivors were included who had undergone chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Most frequently reported symptoms included feeling “worn out” (87%), feeling “tired” (85%), and “trouble sleeping” (66%). Four symptom defined survivor subgroups (minimally symptomatic n = 40, tired & trouble sleeping n = 138, moderate symptoms n = 42, and highly symptomatic n = 55) were identified with symptom differences existing amongst each subgroup. Age and being married/partnered were the only two antecedents found to differ across subgroups. Conclusion This study documents differences in the symptom experience posttreatment. The identification of survivor subgroups allows researchers to further investigate tailored, supportive care strategies to minimize ongoing symptoms in those with the greatest symptom burden.