Supportive Care In Cancer[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial of an intraoral photobiomodulation device for oral mucositis and associated complications due to radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.
Hu K, Shah P, Nguyen MC … +13 more , McCluskey C, Kane A, Ove R, Willey CD, Katz S, Marathe O, Valentin S, Frustino J, Villa A, Spencer S, Holtzapfel C, Treister N, Lalla RV
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42360517 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of an intraoral light-emitting diode (LED)-based photobiomodulation (PBM) device to reduce the incidence and severity of oral mucositis (OM) from intensity modul...
PURPOSE: This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of an intraoral light-emitting diode (LED)-based photobiomodulation (PBM) device to reduce the incidence and severity of oral mucositis (OM) from intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for head and neck cancer (HNC). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial enrolled patients with HNC undergoing high-dose IMRT over 6-8 weeks, with or without concurrent chemotherapy. Participants received daily 10-min PBM or sham treatments immediately before IMRT sessions. Assessments were conducted at baseline, daily and weekly during IMRT, and two weeks post-IMRT. RESULTS: Eighty-five participants (42 PBM; 43 sham) were enrolled across 12 US sites. No device-related adverse events were observed, and 99.5% of initiated sessions were completed. In the intent-to-treat population, severe OM (WHO Grade ≥ 3) incidence was significantly lower with PBM across six weeks of IMRT (36.8% vs 57.1%; p = 0.046) and at two weeks post-treatment (10.8% vs 36.4%; p = 0.042). In the per-protocol population, the PBM arm reported significantly greater taste preservation (p = 0.034), lower increases in mouth/throat soreness (p = 0.029) and throat pain (p = 0.028) and needed fewer feeding tube placements (p = 0.073) than the control arm. CONCLUSION: Daily intraoral PBM therapy using an LED-based device was safe, well tolerated, and significantly reduced the incidence of severe OM and associated complications in HNC patients undergoing IMRT with or without concurrent chemotherapy. These findings align with guidelines recommending daily intraoral PBM therapy for preventing cancer therapy-related OM, a dose-limiting toxicity for which effective preventive interventions are needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials.gov Registration Number NCT03972527. Registered on June 3, 2019. Daily intraoral PBM therapy using an LED-based device was safe, well tolerated, and significantly reduced the incidence of severe OM and associated complications in HNC patients undergoing IMRT with or without concurrent chemotherapy. These findings align with guidelines recommending daily intraoral PBM therapy for preventing cancer therapy-related OM, a dose-limiting toxicity for which effective preventive interventions are needed.
Mainstreaming genetic testing in community oncology settings.
Guo W, Madlensky L
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42360514 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
The experiences of a structured pelvic floor rehabilitation program in colorectal cancer survivors with low anterior resection syndrome: A qualitative study.
Chan KYC, Ratcliffe SE, Collett G … +4 more , Warusavitarne J, Suen M, Coulson S, Vardy JL
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42360508 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a common survivorship challenge after colorectal cancer (CRC), affecting bowel function, psychosocial health, and daily living. Pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) is a...
BACKGROUND: Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a common survivorship challenge after colorectal cancer (CRC), affecting bowel function, psychosocial health, and daily living. Pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) is a supportive approach for bowel function recovery, but little is known about survivors' experiences of or behaviour change processes when participating in a structured PFR program. AIM: This study explored CRC survivors' experiences of LARS and structured PFR with focus on satisfaction, supportive care needs, and behaviour change processes. DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional qualitative study. Analysis employed a hybrid inductive-deductive approach to theme development and data mapping with Symptom Management Theory (SMT) and the COM-B model. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS: Fourteen participants with LARS who had completed the PFR program completed a self-administered paper satisfaction survey and semi-structured telephone interview. RESULTS: All participants rated their experiences as good to excellent on a 6-point Likert scale. Three themes related to participants' LARS experience and PFR program participation were generated: (1) living with unpredictable LARS; (2) a desire for quality information, timely education, and individualised multimodal support; and (3) regaining function and control through structured rehabilitation. Processes of behaviour change were as follows: (1) expectation management; (2) gaining ability to manage; (3) self-efficacy and habit consolidation; and (4) re-evaluation and relapse management. Mapping to SMT and COM-B informed development of a new model, the empowered behavioural adaptation process (EBAP). CONCLUSIONS: LARS imposes considerable physical and psychosocial burdens on CRC survivors, worsened by unmet informational needs and fragmented support. Behaviour change and self-management theories explain how guided, supportive care and individualised multimodal PFR through an empowered behavioural adaptation process, support self-efficacy and long-term management of LARS in CRC survivors.
Feasibility of tooth brushing during prolonged neutropenia in adults receiving intensive induction for acute leukemia: a randomized trial.
Valette A, Moreau C, Marie C … +4 more , Sauzé S, Hunault M, Tanguy-Schmidt A, Orvain C
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42350710 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Due to potential bleeding and/or infectious complications, tooth brushing is contraindicated in some centers in patients with acute leukemia with prolonged neutropenia due to intensive induction therapy while...
BACKGROUND: Due to potential bleeding and/or infectious complications, tooth brushing is contraindicated in some centers in patients with acute leukemia with prolonged neutropenia due to intensive induction therapy while there is limited data to support or not this strategy. The goal of this study is to confirm the safety of tooth brushing in these patients to improve patient comfort. METHODS: We randomized patients with acute leukemia undergoing intensive induction therapy to a mouthwash only strategy (control group) or a tooth brushing strategy (experimental arm) in a single center to verify the safety of tooth brushing in these patients. The oral assessment guide (OAG) was used as the primary endpoint to assess oral health during induction therapy. Other endpoints used to assess the safety tooth brushing included global and buccal bleeding complications, infectious complications, daily tolerance of oral hygiene protocols, and proportion of patients that discontinued the allocated oral hygiene procedure. RESULTS: Between July 2019 and February 2023, we randomized 76 patients between the two strategies. The mean OAG scores were not different between the two groups (mean [standard deviation], 13.7 [2.9] vs. 13.1 [4.3] in the tooth brushing group, P = 0.47). While pain during the allocated hygiene protocol was similar in the two groups, tolerance was lower in the control group (6 [5-8] vs. 5 [3-6] in the tooth brushing group, P = 0.03). On the other hand, patients in the control group were less likely to discontinue the allocated oral hygiene protocol (6 vs. 32% in the tooth brushing group, P = 0.01). Other parameters, including oral mucositis, bleeding, and infections were not different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: While there was a higher discontinuation rate in the experimental group, this was partially due to local buccal mucosae injury with similar rates of adverse events between the two groups. This study suggests the safety of tooth brushing in patients with acute leukemia undergoing intensive induction therapy.
Body esteem and sexual life in Turkish patients with cancer.
Burucu R, Aslan TK
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42350682 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the factors affecting body esteem and sexual life among Turkish individuals diagnosed with cancer, exploring the relationship between treatment-related physical changes and psychose...
PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the factors affecting body esteem and sexual life among Turkish individuals diagnosed with cancer, exploring the relationship between treatment-related physical changes and psychosexual well-being. METHODS: A descriptive and correlational design was employed. The sample consisted of 103 patients receiving treatment in an oncology unit of a medical faculty. Data were collected between November 2022 and January 2023 using a personal information form, the Body-Esteem Scale (BES), and the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX). RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 54.72 ± 9.39 years. Findings showed that body self-esteem scores were below average (39.06 ± 11.97) and mean ASEX scores (18.34 ± 6.37) were well above the clinical threshold of 11. Multiple regression analysis showed that there were variables predicting body self-esteem (R = 0.199, p < 0.001). Sexual life was significantly affected by gender, BMI, and cancer stage, and women reported higher levels of dysfunction (p < 0.001). A significant negative correlation was found between the BES "attribution" subscale and total ASEX scores (r = -0.284, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: Cancer treatment and its complications are significant determinants of both body image and sexual health in Turkish patients. This study shows that clinical factors such as cancer-related weight loss, edema, and catheter presence significantly affect body self-esteem, while sexual dysfunction is primarily influenced by gender, BMI, and disease stage. Addressing these psychosexual challenges is essential for improving the overall quality of life for individuals progressing through the cancer process.
Characterization and outcomes of severe complications after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation: a retrospective multicenter study.
Le Cacheux C, Bastien M, Le Thuaut A … +10 more , Orieux A, Courtot-Melciolle L, Picard M, Chanut M, Pène F, Dumas G, Moreau AS, Quelven Q, Zafrani L, Canet E
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42348046 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics and management and to identify factors associated with outcomes of patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell trans...
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics and management and to identify factors associated with outcomes of patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (ASCT). DESIGN: Multicenter retrospective observational cohort study. SETTING: Eight university-hospital ICUs in France between January 2013 and July 2023. PATIENTS: Consecutive adults (≥ 18 years) admitted to the ICU within 90 days following ASCT conditioning. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Among 6,342 ASCT recipients, 355 (5.6%) required ICU admission. Most had malignant lymphoma (60%) or multiple myeloma (34.6%). Admission typically occurred during the aplastic phase (median, 13 days after conditioning). Sepsis was the predominant diagnosis (75.9%), with the most common sources being neutropenic enterocolitis (more common in lymphoma) and pneumonia (more common in myeloma). Vasopressors were required in 181 (51%) patients and invasive mechanical ventilation in 121 (34.1%) patients. ICU mortality was 13.5% (48 patients) and 90-day mortality was 23.9% (85 patients). By multivariable analysis, factors independently associated with 90-day mortality were higher SAPS II score, lower serum albumin, performance status score ≥ 2, and lymphoma as the underlying malignancy. At one year, 209 (58.9%) patients were alive and in remission, including 198 (94.7%) with a good performance status. CONCLUSIONS: ICU admission was required for 5.6% of patients after ASCT, chiefly during the neutropenic period. Although organ support was often required, good short- and long-term outcomes were obtained, with most survivors achieving a sustained remission and functional recovery. The clinical profiles differed between patients with myeloma and those with lymphoma, and the latter had lower survival.
Patient-reported distress and correlates while on adjuvant endocrine therapy following breast cancer treatment among post-menopausal women: a group-based trajectory model analysis.
Gavin KL, Tiegs J, Winn AN … +3 more , Makris V, Neuner JM, Flynn KE
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42348017 · Full text
PURPOSE: To examine changes in patient-reported distress in female breast cancer (hormone-receptor-positive, stages 1-3) patients aged 55 + taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET). METHODS: A retrospective cohort was con...
PURPOSE: To examine changes in patient-reported distress in female breast cancer (hormone-receptor-positive, stages 1-3) patients aged 55 + taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET). METHODS: A retrospective cohort was constructed using the electronic health record (EHR) at a single Midwestern site from 2014 to 2019. Patients (N = 390) were included if they had completed two or more distress thermometer (DT) assessments. The DT is scored from 0 to 10; four is the threshold for clinically concerning distress. Trajectories were assigned using group-based trajectory modeling analyses. Predictors of group membership were identified using a cross-validated lasso algorithm. RESULTS: The best-fit model included four groups. Group 1 (22%) had no distress, Group 2 (29%) had low distress (average DT = 0.8) that remained low, Group 3 (33%) had medium-low distress (2.7) that remained low, and Group 4 (16%) had high distress (6.2) that decreased but remained high (5) over time. Higher initial DT value was associated with a decreased odds of membership in Group 1 (OR = 0.88; 95% CI (0.80-0.95)) and increased in Group 4 (OR = 1.14; 95% CI (1.06-1.25)). Endorsement of sleep issues was associated with decreased odds of membership in Group 1 (OR = 0.59; 95% CI (0.40-0.87)) and increased odds of membership in Group 3 (OR = 1.53; 95% CI (1.11-2.26)). CONCLUSION: The majority of post-menopausal women do not report distress while taking AET; however, one in six reports high distress that did not dissipate with time. This work adds to the understanding of distress in breast cancer survivors and supports the use of the DT in providing actionable information on distress and its causes.
Symptom burden and outcomes among patients with early-onset versus average-onset neuroendocrine neoplasms.
Baskar S, Patel RR, Rose B … +8 more , Bawek S, Samaddar A, Xu T, O'Rorke M, Vadehera D, Brown TJ, Hornstein N, Grewal US
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42348007 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The incidence of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) is rising, particularly among younger patients, but data comparing early-onset (EO-NENs) and average-onset (AO-NENs) remain limited. Using the National Inpatie...
BACKGROUND: The incidence of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) is rising, particularly among younger patients, but data comparing early-onset (EO-NENs) and average-onset (AO-NENs) remain limited. Using the National Inpatient Sample (2016-2020), we compared patient characteristics, symptom burden, and outcomes between these groups. METHODS: Hospitalizations with NENs were identified using ICD-10 codes and stratified as EO (< 50 years) or AO (≥ 50 years). Demographics, comorbidities, symptom burden, interventions, and outcomes were compared using t-tests, chi-squared tests, and logistic regression analysis (p < 0.001 significant because of Bonferroni correction). RESULTS: We identified 22,555 EO-NEN and 149,470 AO-NEN hospitalizations. EO-NEN patients were more often female (55% vs. 49%). Private insurance was more common in EO-NENs (59% vs. 28%, p < 0.001). EO-NENs were more frequently intestinal or thymic in origin. Symptom burden was higher in EO-NENs, including nausea/vomiting (8.6% vs. 4.7%), constipation (13.9% vs. 10.8%), abdominal pain (1.9% vs. 1.3%), and anxiety (18.3% vs. 14.0%; all p < 0.001). AO-NENs experienced more acute complications (heart failure, cardiac arrest). Multivariate analysis showed no significant difference in odds of inpatient mortality between both cohorts. EO-NEN hospitalizations had higher rates of treatment with chemotherapy (6.1% vs. 4.2%) and surgical resection. CONCLUSIONS: EO-NENs represent a clinically distinct subset with greater symptom burden but fewer acute complications and similar mortality compared to AO-NENs. These findings highlight the need for age-tailored care pathways and further research into the unique biology driving EO-NENs.
Patient-generated subjective global assessment and nutritional risk index for assessing nutritional decline during radical chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer: a prospective single-center Indian study.
K A, Gupta S, Doley P … +4 more , Balu R, Kumar H, Gupta M, Joseph D
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42347847 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Malnutrition is frequent in head and neck cancer patients and may worsen during chemoradiotherapy due to treatment-related toxicities. Early identification of nutritional risk is crucial to enhance treatment tol...
PURPOSE: Malnutrition is frequent in head and neck cancer patients and may worsen during chemoradiotherapy due to treatment-related toxicities. Early identification of nutritional risk is crucial to enhance treatment tolerance and outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate nutritional status of head and neck cancer patients using Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) and anthropometric parameters and to assess their association with acute toxicity and treatment response. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective observational study included 78 patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer treated with radical chemoradiotherapy. Baseline nutritional assessment included anthropometric parameters, biochemical markers, PG-SGA, and Nutritional Risk Index (NRI). Nutritional reassessment was done at treatment completion. Acute toxicities were graded using CTCAE v5.0 and treatment response was evaluated at 12 weeks using RECIST 1.1 criteria. RESULTS: The median age was 57 years and 91% of patients were male. At baseline, 85.9% of patients were well nourished according to PG-SGA, while NRI identified nutritional risk in 51.3% of patients. A significant association was observed between PG-SGA and NRI risk (p = 0.006). Baseline anthropometric parameters did not show significant association with nutritional status. However, serum albumin showed significant association with PG-SGA (p = 0.016) and NRI (p < 0.001). Post-treatment assessment demonstrated nutritional decline in 46.2% of patients. Pre-treatment PG-SGA did not correlate with acute toxicity or treatment response. However, severe dysphagia was significantly associated with post-treatment malnutrition (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Nutritional deterioration is common during chemoradiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients. Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment, together with objective indices such as the Nutritional Risk Index, may help identify patients requiring timely nutritional intervention and swallowing support during treatment.
Appraisal of sexual functioning before and after cancer: insights from adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors and matched healthy controls.
Acquati C, den Oudsten BL, Both S … +1 more , Lehmann V
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42343064 · Full text
PURPOSE: Adolescence and young adulthood (AYA) are developmental phases in which individuals establish their identity. A cancer diagnosis during this stage disrupts sexual health, but research remains limited, particular...
PURPOSE: Adolescence and young adulthood (AYA) are developmental phases in which individuals establish their identity. A cancer diagnosis during this stage disrupts sexual health, but research remains limited, particularly outside of reproductive-organ cancers. This study examined perceived changes in sexual functioning from pre- to post-diagnosis among survivors and compared their current sexual functioning and satisfaction with matched controls. METHODS: Dutch-speaking AYA cancer survivors (N = 174; age = 32.7 years; 85.6% female) recruited via convenience sampling and N = 348 matched controls completed self-reported measures of sexual functioning [MOS-SF] and satisfaction [GMSEX]. Paired sample t-tests assessed perceived changes in sexual functioning. Repeated measures ANOVAs tested the effects of sociodemographic and cancer-related factors on these variations. Independent sample t-tests compared current sexual functioning and satisfaction between survivors and controls. RESULTS: Survivors reported significant declines in multiple domains of sexual functioning, including interest, arousal, orgasm function, pleasure, and lubrication (women). Greater dysfunction was observed among females, individuals diagnosed in their 30s, those in early survivorship, and those who remained with the same partner. Survivors who had engaged in partnered sexual activity reported less dysfunction than those who had not. Compared with controls, survivors reported significantly greater dysfunction and lower sexual satisfaction, while retrospectively rating their pre-diagnosis sexual functioning as more positive. CONCLUSIONS: AYA cancer survivors reported declines in sexual functioning over time, worse outcomes than controls, and more favorable recollections of their pre-diagnosis sexual health, a pattern consistent with response shift. Findings emphasize the need for comprehensive survivorship care that includes routine, proactive sexual health discussions, and tailored interventions responsive to survivors' evolving needs.
Prevalence of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in breast cancer patients receiving low-dose bone modifying agents for cancer treatment-induced bone loss (CTIBL): need for further data.
Fusco V
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42340461 · Publisher ↗
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Exploration of experience and sustained engagement with a web-based cognitive rehabilitation intervention amongst patients with aggressive lymphoma: a qualitative sub-study.
Gates P, Carlon-Garbutt S, Dhillon HM … +6 more , Green HJ, Gough K, Dickinson M, Dryden T, Guarnera J, Caeyenberghs K
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42340443 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), a common side effect of cancer and its treatment, is characterised by difficulties in memory, attention and executive function. This qualitative sub-study was part...
BACKGROUND: Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), a common side effect of cancer and its treatment, is characterised by difficulties in memory, attention and executive function. This qualitative sub-study was part of a single-site, parallel-group, pilot randomised controlled trial in which recruitment and retention exceeded our expectations. The aim was to explore participants' experience and motivation for sustained engagement with a web-based cognitive rehabilitation (eReCog) intervention amongst people with aggressive lymphoma who were self-reporting cognitive decline. METHODS: We used an inductive qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with fourteen participants. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and a reflexive thematic approach was used to describe and interpret key themes and sub-themes in the data. RESULTS: Fourteen interviews were completed. We extracted four themes describing participants experience and motivation for sustained engagement with eReCog. These included information needs, experience of participation, support and ease of use. Participants were motivated to engage to gain knowledge and strategies to manage their CRCI symptoms; they enjoyed the experience and felt validated via the online community created. Finally, they valued the additional support they received and appreciated the convenience and flexibility of the web-based program. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that engagement with eReCog was driven by perceived cognitive improvements, psychosocial benefits and accessibility. Addressing both cognitive and psychosocial needs is warranted in web-based rehabilitation to foster continued participation engagement. Web-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions should enhance accessibility and earlier integration into the cancer trajectory to optimise long-term survivorship care in people with haematological cancers should be considered. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN 12623000705684 on 30th June 2023.
Determining the feasibility of self-administered relaxing acupressure for fatigue among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.
Knoerl R, Jardine J, Chugh R … +8 more , Fecher LA, Henry NL, Joquico M, Karimi Y, Ploutz-Snyder R, Taylor S, Walling E, Zick S
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42337155 · Full text
PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility and acceptability of a 6-week, self-administered relaxing acupressure intervention in AYAs with clinically significant cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and explore its preliminary impact...
PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility and acceptability of a 6-week, self-administered relaxing acupressure intervention in AYAs with clinically significant cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and explore its preliminary impact on CRF severity compared to sham acupressure. METHODS: In this pilot randomized controlled trial, 42 post-treatment AYA cancer survivors (PROMIS Fatigue 4a T-score ≥ 55) at least 3 months post-treatment were recruited from a comprehensive cancer center and social media and randomized 2:1 to relaxing or sham acupressure. Participants stimulated five acupoints daily for 27 min over 6 weeks. PROMIS measures were completed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 10 weeks. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, retention, fidelity, adherence, and acceptability. Mixed effects linear regression evaluated changes in CRF over time. RESULTS: Recruitment averaged 3.5 participants/month. Outcome completion was ≥ 69% at baseline, week 6, and week 10. Adherence was variable as 38% of participants completed an average of three or more sessions per week. Fatigue severity significantly decreased from baseline to 6 weeks (control - 8.07, p = 0.0015; acupressure - 10.12, p < 0.0001) and remained improved at 10 weeks in both groups, with no significant between-group differences. CONCLUSIONS: Self-administered acupressure is feasible for AYA cancer survivors. Clinically meaningful fatigue reductions occurred in both groups; however, variable adherence and no between-group differences underscore the need to optimize dose and adherence strategies in a future trial. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Acupressure is a low-cost, self-directed strategy that may help manage CRF. Future research should work to identify the optimal dose and adherence supports to maximize benefit for AYA survivors. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06442891, registered June 4, 2024.
Efficacy of hydrocolloid dressing for hand-foot skin reaction: J-SUPPORT 1701 APRON trial.
Ryu A, Zenda S, Shimizu Y … +11 more , Takashima A, Tsutsumida A, Takahashi A, Arai M, Morizane C, Yamaguchi T, Takagi Y, Mashiko T, Miyaji T, Kawaguchi T, Yamazaki N
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42337018 · Full text
PURPOSE: Since hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) is a dose-limiting toxicity associated with certain multikinase inhibitors, prophylactic measures to manage this adverse effect require improvement. This study aimed to evalu...
PURPOSE: Since hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) is a dose-limiting toxicity associated with certain multikinase inhibitors, prophylactic measures to manage this adverse effect require improvement. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of depressurization using hydrocolloid dressing by comparing the effects of adding hydrocolloid dressing to standard prophylactic moisturizing versus moisturizing alone. METHODS: We conducted a phase 3 randomized self-controlled study for patients with unresectable colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, or hepatocellular carcinoma who planned to receive either regorafenib or sorafenib. The primary endpoint was an incidence of grade 2 or higher HFSR (soles of the feet only) assessed using NCI CTCAE v.4.0. HFSR grading was performed according to pre-determined criteria, comprising a blinded central review of photographs of the foot, pain intensity (numerical rating scale), and patient-assessed interference score. RESULTS: Between January 2019 and January 2021, 50 patients were enrolled. 48/50 patients received regorafenib, and two received sorafenib. The incidence of grade 2 or higher HFSR was significantly lower in the hydrocolloid dressing group than in the control group (20% vs. 50%, p < 0.0001, 95% CI of risk difference: [-42.7%, -17.3%]). Time to grade 2 or higher HFSR was significantly longer in the hydrocolloid dressing group (hazard ratio 0.32, p = 0.0017). The incidence of moderate, severe, or very severe in patient-reported HFSR, assessed using PRO-CTCAE, was also lower in the hydrocolloid dressing group (10% vs. 32%, p = 0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that the prophylactic use of hydrocolloid dressing was effective for HFSR. TRIAL REGISTRATION: J-SUPPORT1701, registered in December 2018 with the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN000034853).
Current status and influencing factors of psychological distress in young and middle-aged patients with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study.
Zhang Y, Xie X, Wu S … +6 more , Yao Y, Yang J, Chen J, Hu Y, Qiu Y, Chen J
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42334637 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Young and middle-aged breast cancer patients suffer not only from physical pain but also from great psychological distress. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand the factors influencing psychologic...
BACKGROUND: Young and middle-aged breast cancer patients suffer not only from physical pain but also from great psychological distress. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand the factors influencing psychological distress in young and middle-aged breast cancer patients with the aim of reducing such distress. DESIGN: Cross-sectional descriptive study. OBJECTIVE: To explore the current status and factors influencing psychological distress in young and middle-aged breast cancer patients. METHODS: In this cross-sectional survey, relevant evaluations of the research subjects were conducted using a general information questionnaire, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, the Self-Rating Depression Scale and the Psychological Stress Thermometer. RESULTS: A total of 262 patients completed the survey, and anxiety and depression were positively correlated with psychological distress. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that anxiety, depression, age, and fertility were factors influencing psychological distress among young and middle-aged breast cancer patients. CONCLUSIONS: Young and middle-aged breast cancer patients experience a high level of psychological distress. The mental health of these patients should be addressed, and such patients should be provided with timely emotional and psychological counseling to reduce their psychological distress.
A cross-sectional retrospective and prospective service evaluation of head and neck cancer patients' swallowing and quality of life concerns: are we doing enough?
Rothrie S, Brady G, Roe J
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42334548 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment causes significant functional sequelae including changes to eating, drinking and swallowing. Long-term surveillance currently focuses on the potential identification of...
INTRODUCTION: Head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment causes significant functional sequelae including changes to eating, drinking and swallowing. Long-term surveillance currently focuses on the potential identification of disease recurrence yet does not seek to address ongoing quality of life (QoL). We sought to evaluate the potential unmet needs of patients undergoing routine surveillance following curative treatment for primary HNC at a tertiary referral centre with a particular focus on swallowing toxicity. METHODS: A cross-sectional retrospective and prospective evaluation was undertaken at a single tertiary referral centre. Patient medical records were reviewed retrospectively over a 3-month period to ascertain if routine surveillance consultations addressed any potential swallowing-related toxicity. Unmet needs were prospectively measured using the Patients Concerns Inventory for Head and Neck Cancer Post Treatment (PCI-HaNC-PT). RESULTS: The retrospective sample included 52 patients where data was collected via medical note review. There was documented evidence of surveillance for swallowing-related toxicity in 13% (n = 7) of cases. Of the seven patients questioned about any potential swallowing-related toxicity, six reported difficulties with only one referred for formal assessment to speech and language therapy (SLT). The prospective sample included 74 individuals. On screening for potential unmet needs using the PCI-HaNC-PT, 78% (n = 58) reported at least one unmet QoL concern. The most commonly reported concerns included dry mouth 41% (n = 30), difficulty swallowing 27% (n = 20), fear of recurrence 20% (n = 15), head and neck pain 18% (n = 13) and difficulties chewing 16% (n = 12). CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate that swallowing toxicity following treatment was not routinely elicited during surveillance appointments. Patients presented with QoL-related concerns in the post treatment setting with eating and drinking difficulties being most prevalent. More detailed consideration is needed to understand how patients' needs can be better identified to enhance and improve ongoing QoL during the surveillance period following treatment. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: • Head and neck cancer treatment causes significant long-term changes to many patients' functional outcomes including eating and drinking. • Within this evaluation routine surveillance models did not provide sufficient assessment of patients' ongoing QoL concerns following treatment end. • These data demonstrate swallowing toxicity following treatment was not routinely elicited during surveillance appointments. • The utilisation of holistic prompts list such as PCI-HaNC-PT can provide opportunities for patients to share their experiences and help shape a personalised response from treatment care teams.
Somatosensory amplification and fear of cancer recurrence: Moderating effects of emotion regulation difficulties.
Daches S, Zohar O, Bitan S … +1 more , Hasson-Ohayon I
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42332285 · Full text
PURPOSE: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most prevalent and distressing psychological concerns among cancer survivors. This study examined the association between somatosensory amplification (SSA) and FCR a...
PURPOSE: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most prevalent and distressing psychological concerns among cancer survivors. This study examined the association between somatosensory amplification (SSA) and FCR and tested whether emotion regulation (ER) difficulties moderate this relationship. METHODS: A sample of 116 adult cancer survivors (Mage = 47.24) completed validated self-report measures assessing SSA, ER difficulties, and FCR. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted, controlling for anxiety symptom severity, age, gender, and time since treatment completion. RESULTS: Neither SSA nor ER difficulties were associated with FCR. Yet, the interaction between SSA and ER difficulties was statistically significant. Specifically, the positive association between SSA and FCR was evident at low and mean levels of ER difficulties, but not at high levels. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that the relationship between heightened bodily sensitivity and FCR may differ according to levels of ER difficulties. Future research should explore longitudinal pathways and relevant intervention-based outcomes. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Screening for SSA and ER difficulties in survivorship care may help identify individuals for whom heightened bodily sensitivity is associated with increased FCR.
The burden of cardiovascular disease in prostate cancer: prevalence, pathophysiology, and implications for integrated care.
Ogieuhi IJ, Anthony CS, Ajekiigbe VO … +7 more , Ayomikun AF, Iyawe EP, Adegbesan CA, Adeshina GA, Moradeyo A, Akingbola A, Ogunniyi KE
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42332138 · Publisher ↗
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are the two leading health issues in the world, with CVD being the leading cause of death in all age groups and cancer, particularly prostate cancer (PCa), emerging as a significan...
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are the two leading health issues in the world, with CVD being the leading cause of death in all age groups and cancer, particularly prostate cancer (PCa), emerging as a significant concern among elderly men. Common risk factors like metabolic disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases, and hormone abnormalities have been theorized to be responsible for the increasing prevalence of these diseases. In this study, we examined the relationship between CVD and PCa, with emphasis on the pathophysiological events that connect them and how their coexistence affects patient outcomes. Common PCa treatments, such as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) as well as androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSI), have been linked to higher rates of hypertension, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and metabolic abnormalities. These cardiovascular side effects complicate the effective management of PCa, resulting in poorer overall results. It is essential to implement new integrated approaches to tackle these comorbid conditions. Recommendations include changes in lifestyle, personalized treatment plans, multidisciplinary collaborative efforts, and routine cardiovascular examinations for patients on PCa treatment. Evidence found that personalized exercise regimens and pharmaceutical treatments like statins and antihypertensives may lower cardiovascular risks and enhance outcomes in patients undergoing PCa treatment. Also, emerging technological interventions like wearable devices and telemedicine, such as smartwatches and mobile ambulatory blood pressure monitors (ABPMs), offer real-time cardiovascular monitoring and improve health outcomes among these patients. This study identifies the substantial gaps in clinical guidelines, notably in cardio-oncology integration, and emphasizes the importance of further research into biomarkers, shared inflammatory pathways, and individualized therapy methods. Hence, addressing these gaps will enable a more comprehensive approach to patient care, improving their quality of life and survival.
Stress and coping experiences of Black family cancer caregivers: a qualitative investigation.
Qian Y, Kent EE, Muessig KE … +4 more , Song L, Matthews D, Saylor MA, Fisher EB
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42324390 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: High costs and care needs impact not only individuals living with cancer but also their family caregivers. As cancer burdens disproportionately affect Black/African American populations, Black caregivers may pro...
PURPOSE: High costs and care needs impact not only individuals living with cancer but also their family caregivers. As cancer burdens disproportionately affect Black/African American populations, Black caregivers may provide more intensive care and face greater financial impacts than White caregivers, yet experiences of Black cancer caregivers are understudied. This research explored the lived experiences of stress and coping among Black caregivers of adult care recipients (CRs) with cancer. METHODS: In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with twelve Black cancer caregivers (seven males, five females) who cared for parents (n = 4), other relatives (n = 4), romantic partners (n = 2), and friends (n = 2). A stress and coping process model of cancer caregiving guided thematic data analysis. RESULTS: Two themes were identified. First, caregiving stressors (events/conditions leading to distress appraisals/coping practices) included three sub-themes: conflicts between caregiving duties with other responsibilities (e.g., employment) and personal needs (e.g., social activities), financial stress shaped by both cancer care needs and financial backgrounds of CR and caregiver, and stressors stemming from community (e.g., cancer stigma) and healthcare contexts (e.g., racism). Second, coping practices (behaviors for managing distress appraisals/stressors) included three sub-themes: self-care practices (e.g., hobbies), problem-solving (e.g., working second jobs), and support from CR and broader social network (e.g., emotional support, financial assistance). CONCLUSION: Stress and coping experiences of Black cancer caregivers varied widely and were rooted in their caregiving, economic, community, and healthcare contexts. Interventions and supportive services for cancer caregivers should consider individual needs and cultural coping patterns to advance the inclusion and support of Black caregivers.
Physical activity and exercise beliefs of patients with cancer during chemotherapy: relation with social participation and quality of life level.
Gumus O, Ocag O, Aksoy S … +1 more , Yildiz-Kabak V
Support Care Cancer · 2026 Jun · PMID 42323504 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study aims to examine the physical activity levels and exercise beliefs of patients with cancer receiving outpatient chemotherapy and to investigate their associations with social participation and quality...
PURPOSE: This study aims to examine the physical activity levels and exercise beliefs of patients with cancer receiving outpatient chemotherapy and to investigate their associations with social participation and quality of life. METHODS: A cross-sectional study included 101 outpatient cancer cases undergoing chemotherapy. Physical activity level was assessed by using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), exercise beliefs with the Exercise Belief Questionnaire. Quality of life with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), and social participation with the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI). RESULTS: Participants were mostly female (57.4%) and diagnosed with gastrointestinal system (38.6%) or breast cancer (28.7%). According to the IPAQ total score, 44.5% were inactive and 55.4% were minimally active. In terms of exercise beliefs, many participants agreed that exercise makes them feel better (5.4 ± 1.1), positively affects their mood (5.3 ± 1.3), and reduces stress (5.3 ± 1.2). The most common exercise barriers were fatigue (4.5 ± 1.7), bad weather conditions (4.0 ± 2.1), and lack of motivation (3.9 ± 1.9). Patients with higher physical activity levels reported significantly lower exercise barrier (33.4 ± 8.2 vs. 30.0 ± 9.2, p = 0.021). Physical activity level was positively correlated with EORTC QLQ-C30 function score (r = 0.331, p = 0.001), general health score (r = 0.247, p < 0.05), and RNLI score (r = 0.453, p < 0.001). Furthermore, positive exercise beliefs were positively correlated with IPAQ total score (r = 0.308, p < 0.05) and higher perceived exercise barriers were negatively correlated with all EORTC QLQ-C30 quality of life domains (p < 0.05), RNLI total score (r = -0.388, p < 0.001), and IPAQ total score (r = -0.273, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that higher physical activity and lower negative exercise beliefs were associated with better social participation and improved quality of life in patients with cancer. To promote better rehabilitation outcomes, future targeted interventions should focus on enhancing patients' exercise self-efficacy and directly reducing modifiable barriers, such as fatigue and low motivation, alongside reinforcing positive exercise beliefs.
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