Women treated for gynaecological cancer during young adulthood - A mixed-methods study of perceived psychological distress and experiences of support from health care following end-of-treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and predictors of cancer-related distress in younger women treated for gynaecological cancer, and to explore women's needs and experiences of psychosocial support following end-of-treatment.

METHODS

Data were collected from 337 gynaecological cancer survivors, 19-39years at diagnosis, using a study-specific questionnaire and the Swedish Quality Register of Gynaecologic Cancer. Predictors of distress were investigated with multivariable logistic regression analysis. Open-ended questions were analysed with content analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of cancer-related distress was 85% (n=286) including fear of cancer-recurrence (n=175, 61%), anxiety (n=152, 53%), depression (n=145, 51%), fear of death (n=91, 32%), concerns regarding sexuality (n=87, 34%) and fertility (n=78, 27%), and changed body image (n=78, 27%). Multi-modal treatment (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.13-4.49) and a history of psychological distress (OR 3.44, 95% CI 1.41-8.39) predicted cancer-related distress. The majority of women experiencing distress also reported a need for support after end-of-treatment (n=205, 71%). One-third of those receiving support reported the received support as inadequate (n=55, 34%). Eight categories described reasons for not seeking support, e.g., lacked strength to seek professional support and too busy managing every-day life and, wanted help but did not know who to turn to. Four categories described reasons for not receiving sought support e.g., found it difficult to openly express feelings, psychosocial care was under-dimensioned, insufficient and unprofessional.

CONCLUSION

Results identify the importance of support and longer-term follow-up for young survivors of gynaecological cancer. The support needs to be organised to meet this group's specific needs.