Satisfaction with permanent changes after cancer surgery: From personal satisfaction of gastric cancer survivors with post-gastrectomy weight loss.

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the personal satisfaction of gastric cancer survivors with post-gastrectomy weight loss. The responses were analyzed in relation to the actual weight status based on two general criteria-preoperative weight and the World Health Organization (WHO) weight classification-as part of an attempt to identify patterns of satisfaction with weight loss.

METHODS

Survivors with significant postoperative weight loss (≥8%) were identified among 1- and 5-year survivors, and were divided into obese/non-obese weight losers (WLs) based on the WHO definition of obesity. For comparison, those with minimal weight change (not exceeding ± 3%) at each time period were identified (non-WLs).The EORTC QLQ-C30 and -STO22 questionnaires were used to monitor quality of life (QoL). Responses to an item in the EORTC QLQ-STO22, inquiring about personal concerns with weight loss, were used to assess personal satisfaction with weight changes.

RESULTS

Except for the QoL disadvantages of non-obese WLs in anxiety (P = 0.011) of 1-year survivors and in emotional functioning (P = 0.039) of 5-year survivors, there was no significant difference in QoL changes between groups. Regarding personal satisfaction with decreased body weight, non-obese WLs continued to show dissatisfaction (P < 0.001) unlike obese WLs, who enjoyed satisfaction comparable to non-WLs long after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Compared with non-obese WLs who expressed dissatisfaction with current weight, obese WLs were satisfied with their current weight several years after surgery. Patient satisfaction with surgical changes may depend on the availability of reasonable grounds that suggest a positive interpretation of surgically altered status.