Authors (including presenting author) :
Shum NF(1), Tam CK1, Rockson Wei(1), Choi HK(1), Dominic Foo CC(2)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, (2) Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Hong Kong
Introduction :
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major healthcare challenge throughout the world. The five- year survival rate of CRC is as high as 92% for the non-metastatic stage and about 65%-90% in the world. Despite its good five-year survival rate, colorectal survivors are at great risk for cancer recurrence after treatment. Preventive health is an important aspect of cancer survivorship (Overholser & Callaway, 2018). An unhealthy lifestyle in CRC survivors has a significant relationship to colorectal cancer recurrence such as physical inactivity, overweight, and poor eating habits. Therefore, a necessity to help the CRC survivors maintain a significant lifestyle is pivotal.
Objectives :
This study aims to explore the living lifestyles of colorectal cancer survivors and address patient concerns and offer personalized nursing advice based on their experiences.
Methodology :
This was a prospective study in which the participants were referred by colorectal specialists to nurse colorectal survivorship’s clinic. Study participants were assessed by colorectal specialty nurses. The management focus included: symptoms assessment; screening and surveillance; late effect complications management; bowel and dietary habits and psychological support. The nurse will offer personalized nursing advice or recommendations based on their needs.
Result & Outcome :
A total of 494 patients (249 men and 245 women) with a mean age of 73.60 years (standard deviation [S.D.] 11.06 years, 48-98) participated in the study. 19.03% of patients received surgical procedures and 80.97% had colonic surgery. The mean survival duration is 13.56 years and the mean QOL (Fact C) scored 107.35. Among the 494 patients, 26.05% have hypertension; 3.1% poot DM control’; 36.64% were overweight; 29.2% had no exercise and 38.40% were physical inactivity; 76.11% had inadequate fluid intake; 1.96% still smoking and 13.73% were drinking. Patients were offered counselling to support behavior changes and encourage them to adopt healthier habits. Exercise promotion, nutritional guidance, and healthy living lifestyles reinforced.
Conclusion:
These findings highlighted the need for tailored or comprehensive survivorship programs that address not only medical follow-up but also lifestyle modifications to promote long-term health and well-being. The transition of patients to primary care or district health centers is crucial and challenging. Strategies for successfully transitioning patients to primary care are needed and pivotal.
