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BMC Cancer
Published in: BMC Cancer 1/2021

Open Access 01-12-2021 | Care | Research article

Unmet supportive care needs and associated factors among young adult cancer patients in Japan

Authors: Masako Okamura, Maiko Fujimori, Ayako Sato, Yosuke Uchitomi

Published in: BMC Cancer | Issue 1/2021

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Abstract

Background

Young adult cancer patients often face unique challenges and have potential unmet needs. This study aimed (1) to describe unmet supportive care needs among young adults with cancer in Japan, and (2) to identify its associated factors.

Methods

In a cross-sectional web-based survey, 206 young adults with cancer were assessed for supportive care needs. Multiple regression analysis examined whether demographics, clinical variables and social support were associated with unmet supportive care needs.

Results

A total of 206 patients (180 female) with a mean age of 33.7 years (SD = 4.3, range: 22–39) participated. One hundred and fifty-eight participants (76.7%) reported at least one unmet supportive care needs. The top 20 unmet needs included 9 of the 10 psychological needs, 3 of the 5 physical and daily living needs, 8 of the 11 health system and information needs and 1 of the 5 sexuality needs. Multiple regression analysis revealed that perceived poorer PS, experience of change in work/school after a cancer diagnosis and poor social support were significantly associated with higher supportive care needs. The total score of supportive care needs was significantly associated with both psychological distress and QOL.

Conclusions

More than 70% of young adult cancer patients reported unmet supportive care needs and most of those were psychological needs. The findings suggest potential opportunities for intervention in addressing psychological needs rather than physical and information needs.
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Metadata
Title
Unmet supportive care needs and associated factors among young adult cancer patients in Japan
Authors
Masako Okamura
Maiko Fujimori
Ayako Sato
Yosuke Uchitomi
Publication date
01-12-2021
Publisher
BioMed Central
Keyword
Care
Published in
BMC Cancer / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2407
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-020-07721-4

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