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Inuit face worse cancer survival rates and outcomes than the general Canadian population. Persistent health disparities cannot be understood without examining the structural factors that create inequities and continue to impact the health and well-being of Inuit. This scoping review aims to synthesise the available published and grey literature on the structural factors that influence cancer care experienced by Inuit in Canada. Guided by Inuit input from Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada as well as the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology, a comprehensive electronic search along with hand-searching of grey literature and relevant journals was conducted. A total of 30 papers were included for analysis and assessment of relevance. Findings were organised into five categories as defined in the a priori framework related to colonisation, as well as health systems, social, economic, and political structures. The study results highlight interconnections between racism and colonialism, the lack of health service information on urban Inuit, as well as the need for system-wide efforts to address the structural barriers in cancer care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This review begins by exploring the escalating global population of cancer survivors, drawing inspiration from Dr. Lidia Schapira's Keynote Conference on Survivorship 1.0 and Survivorship 2.0 Programs. It presents and discusses the transformed and constantly evolving landscape of cancer care, emphasizing patient-centric strategies within Cancer Survivorship Programs, including connection, support, and education. While spotlighting cancer recurrence surveillance, concerns arise regarding potential oversights in addressing the enduring mental and physical health impacts. The study further navigates mental health challenges faced by survivors providing strategies to mitigate them, insights into promising research areas, such as Precision Medicine's role in de-escalating oncology therapies, as well as advocating for early cancer awareness and referrals to supportive services. Dr. Schapira's insights also extend to examining online resources, emphasizing their role in educating healthcare practitioners and future generations in cancer care. Additionally, the paper aims to identify knowledge gaps in cancer care and envision future developments toward accurate, holistic care, improving survivor quality of life, and enhancing mental and physical well-being. The constantly escalating population of cancer survivors worldwide has prompted a focused exploration of their unique needs and experiences within the context of healthcare medicine. This review initiates its analysis inspired by Dr. Lidia Schapira's insightful keynote conference on the Survivorship 1.0 and Survivorship 2.0 Programs, shedding light on their implementation challenges and setting the stage for a comprehensive analysis of cancer survivorship initiatives. Within the transformed landscape of cancer care, patient-centric strategies embedded in cancer survivorship programs comprising vital elements such as connection, support, and education are presented. While placing cancer recurrence surveillance at the forefront, the review underlines concern regarding the potential oversight of the enduring impact on mental and physical health. Dr. Schapira's insights further extend into the exploration of mental health challenges faced by survivors, promoting an examination of diverse strategies to address these concerns. Furthermore, the discussion continues toward promising areas of research, notably Precision Medicine's role in de-escalating cancer therapies, and advocates for measures such as early cancer awareness and timely referrals to supportive services. Highlighting the significance of education, the role of online resources in enhancing the knowledge of healthcare practitioners and future generations in cancer care is then explored. The paper concludes by presenting some of the most prominent global current survivorship programs, identifying critical knowledge gaps in cancer care and projecting future developments aimed at delivering accurate and holistic care, improving the quality of life for survivors, and enhancing both mental and physical well-being. Drawing upon the insights from Dr. Schapira, this review lays the groundwork for a nuanced exploration of cancer survivorship and its multifaceted implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to identify and address gaps in cancer treatment and diagnosis within European health services, focusing specifically on discrepancies between clinical guidelines and policy guidelines. It seeks to highlight how the underutilization of advanced diagnostic techniques recommended by medical societies contributes to missed opportunities for improving patient outcomes.A comprehensive analysis was conducted across multiple European countries to assess the compliance and integration of clinical guidelines with the availability of advanced diagnostic technologies. Secondary data related to clinical and policy guidelines in cancer care were collected and analyzed. Key indicators of adoption and utilization of next-generation sequencing and liquid biopsy were examined to evaluate their impact on health service efficiency and patient care.The analysis revealed significant discrepancies between the recommendations of medical societies regarding advanced diagnostic techniques and their adoption in health policy decisions across Europe. Country-specific assessments indicated varying levels of alignment between clinical guidelines and the availability of advanced diagnostics. These findings underscored missed opportunities for optimizing patient care and health service efficiency through better alignment and integration of clinical guidelines with policy decisions.This study concludes that there is a critical need for health policy decision-makers to prioritize the adoption of clinical guidelines in resource allocation and health service organization. Greater attention to the recommendations of medical societies regarding advanced diagnostic techniques could significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy, and overall patient outcomes in cancer care. The paper advocates for policy reforms that acknowledge and leverage the potential benefits of advanced diagnostics in improving health service performance and patient-centered care across Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives: To determine the impact of nurse‐led follow‐up care supporting self‐management of people who have had or have cancer. Background: Cancer care is evolving towards enabling people to self‐manage the impact of cancer, treatment and overall care on their quality of life (QoL), self‐efficacy and distress. Design: A systematic review following Joanna Briggs Institution (JBI) guidance and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement was undertaken. Methods: Four databases were searched, OVID Medline, CINAHL, PsychINFO and Embase. Quantitative randomised control trials with people who have or have had cancer accessing nurse‐led care or nurse‐led intervention, undertaken within secondary care were included. Narrative synthesis was undertaken due to heterogeneity of measures used and time points of assessment. Results: Seven papers were included in the final review, all meeting moderate to high‐quality appraisal. Only one study found an impact of nurse‐led care on all three factors under investigation, with a further two studies finding an effect on distress. The remaining studies did not find an impact of the intervention. Conclusion: Clinical Nurse Specialists are well placed to provide follow‐up care for people with cancer, but in relation to QoL, self‐efficacy and distress, there is limited evidence of effectiveness of nurse‐led interventions. Public or patient contribution: This systematic review did not have any public or patient contribution. Relevance to clinical practice: Cancer care is moving to a chronic care, self‐management model. Clinical nurse specialists are well placed to innovate interventions that assist people with cancer to self‐manage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cancer remains a significant health burden in Nigeria and requires the efforts of all stakeholders to address it. Little is known about how the worldviews of Nigerian patients with cancer and other institutional factors affect cancer management in Nigeria. This paper draws evidence from an ethnonursing study conducted in a Nigerian cancer care setting. Method: This study adopted a qualitative design using an ethnonursing approach. The study was conducted in one of the primary cancer treatment centers owned by the federal government of Nigeria. Data collection was conducted using participant observation, interviews, and field notes. Data collected were analyzed using NVivo 12 and presented as categories and sub-categories. Results: Analysis yielded two themes and seven sub-themes. The major themes included (1) dominant worldview and (2) institutional/contextual factors. Participants attributed life, living, and death as being controlled by a supreme being. Cancer care was constrained by unfavorable institutional factors such as lack of equipment, staffing, and intensified workload. Discussion: Cancer institutions should provide more cancer care infrastructure that will facilitate the work of nurses and other health care workers. There should be an enabling environment that would attract and retain nurses in the cancer wards. The hospital environment should be made conducive for the cancer care providers, patients with cancer, and their relatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Radiotherapy is the main treatment modality in cancer. There is sparse knowledge on how patients with cancer experience their radiotherapy trajectory, and which factors might be associated with patients' experiences. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to explore how adults with cancer receiving radiotherapy evaluate the quality of their care, utilizing a patient-reported experience measure, and how patient- and service-related characteristics are associated with their evaluation. Methods: An explorative cross-sectional study using a self-completed questionnaire to assess patients' radiotherapy experiences was performed. Participants were recruited consecutively, within their last week of treatment, from two different hospitals in Norway from January 2021 to January 2022. Four hundred and eighty paper questionnaires were distributed to recruited patients, 240 at each hospital. Questionnaires were self-completed at home and returned by mail. The instrument person-centered coordinated care experience questionnaire (P3CEQ) was used. In addition to this, participants completed the European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and The Sense of Coherence 13 scale (SOC-13). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, parametric tests, and unadjusted/adjusted linear regression models were estimated. Results: The study included 373 patients. Patients evaluated quality of care in terms of P3CEQ scores, with a mean score of 19.5 (standard deviation = 5.4). Lowest scores were identified in areas concerning person-centeredness and service coordination. There were no significant differences in P3CEQ scores between the younger and older groups. Having a partner and better SOC-13 scores were independently associated with the overall patient-reported experience score, whereas age was not. Conclusion: Patient-reported experience scores indicate that improvements are needed in some areas, such as informing and involving patients in the planning and coordination of their care. Findings suggest paying special attention to patients without a partner to offer patients the best possible care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer can have a significant impact on one's life situation, with many patients reporting psychosocial discomfort, worry, anxiety, fear of recurrence, depression, tiredness/fatigue, sleep problems, pain and numerous other problems even long after active medical treatment. Psychosocial support during cancer rehabilitation has proven to be insufficient. In a recent debate article, the scientific committee of CancerRehabFund, Sweden, demands more rehabilitation alternatives for individuals living with cancer. Nature-based treatment is one of the alternatives mentioned as the way forward, but more research is needed. Therefore, we want to evaluate the patient's experience of a ten-week forest bathing intervention, as an add-on to the standard care, and whether it can improve general health and well-being in women suffering or recovering from gynaecological cancer. The study will run between the autumn of 2022 and until the end of 2023. It is a prospective single-case study, including quantitative and qualitative approaches using validated self-administered instruments (pre–post measurements) and semi-structured interviews (post) on women's lived experience of the 10-week forest bathing intervention. The quantitative outcome measurements will be the quality of life, fatigue and depression/anxiety. There will also be a questionnaire on perceived sensory dimensions experienced in the forest environment. The study will include 24 participants, divided into four groups of 6 participants. Once a week for ten weeks, the participants will be offered a session of a 2.5-hour stay in the forest with breathing exercises, slow movement, time in silence and privacy and a social gathering to conclude each session. Before and after each session, the participants will be invited to fill in the Profile of their mood state to describe their mood/feelings. There will be three different forest locations with varied forest cover types, i.e., evergreen, deciduous and mistands. Participation in this study will be voluntary, and all results will be anonymously presented on a group level. This paper is a protocol paper describing in detail the venues/forest sites, the forest therapy intervention and the scientific methodological approach for evaluating the ten-week intervention. To our knowledge, this is the first study on forest bathing for cancer survivors in Sweden. The Swedish Ethical Review Authority has approved the study [Dnr 2022-02083-01]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine implicit bias in employees at a cancer centre using an Australian race (Aboriginal–white) Implicit Association Test (IAT), in an attempt to understand a potential factor for inequitable outcomes of First Nations Australians cancer patients. Methods: All employees at an Australian cancer centre were invited to take part in a web-based, cross-sectional study using an Australian race IAT. The results were analysed using Welch t-tests, linear regression and ANOVA. Results: Overall, 538/2871 participants (19%) completed the IAT between January and June 2020. The mean IAT was 0.147 (s.d. 0.43, P < 0.001, 95% CI 0.11–0.18), and 60% had a preference for white over First Nations Australians. There was no significant mean difference in IAT scores between sub-groups of gender, age or clinical/non-clinical employees. 21% of employees (95% CI 17.65–24.53) had moderate to strong preference for white over First Nations Australians, compared to 7.1% with moderate to strong preference for First Nations over white Australians (95% CI 5.01–9.09). Conclusions: Inequitable cancer survival for First Nations patients has been well established and cancer is now the leading cause of mortality. This paper documents the presence of racial bias in employees at one cancer centre. We argue that this cannot be understood outside the history of colonialism and its effects on First Nations Australians, healthcare workers and our society. Further research is required to evaluate measures of racism, its effect on health care, and how to eliminate it. What is known about this topic? Australian cancer care providers deliver inequitable access and outcomes for First Nations Australians. Systemic and personal racism experienced by First Nations patients are thought to contribute to these inequities. What does this paper add? This paper documents the presence of cancer centre employee racial bias and reiterates the need for further research to document the effect of racism on cancer care outcomes for First Nations patients. What are the implications for practitioners? Healthcare practitioners, similar to other Australians, have implicit bias against First Nations Australians. Previous studies suggest that the presence of bias affects treatment options and outcomes for people of colour. In order to eliminate racism and associated inequities in cancer care services, multi-faceted anti-racism approaches are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of this paper is to outline the role and potential benefits of physical activity for cancer patients. We present a review of publications on the subject in order to compare the findings reported in the literature and draw general conclusions that could help clinicians who provide cancer care to develop a more comprehensive treatment approach. This review may also help patients overcome barriers and become more motivated to take up physical activity, which would improve their quality of life. We wish to demonstrate to patients that physical activity should not be regarded as a burdensome medical recommendation but rather as a factor that can reduce the risk of cancer mortality and recurrence. In 2020, 19.3 million new cancer cases were diagnosed, and almost 10 million deaths from cancer were recorded. Cancer patients may experience fatigue, depression, anxiety, reduced quality of life and sleep problems. Cancer treatments cause numerous side effects and have a negative impact on all body systems. Physical activity is important for cancer patients. The aim of this review is to analyse recent studies on the role of physical activity in cancer patients and emphasize its importance. The review included 36 papers published in English between 2017 and 2021. The findings from these studies show that physical activity decreases the severity of side effects of cancer treatment, reduces fatigue, improves quality of life, has a positive impact on mental health and improves aerobic fitness in cancer patients. Moreover, it reduces the risk of cancer recurrence and death. Physical activity is recommended for patients with any type of cancer and at all stages of treatment. The type of physical activity should depend on the condition of the individual patient. It is extremely difficult to determine what type, intensity and duration of physical activity is likely to have the greatest effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Physical function is important for older people to maintain selfcare and independence. Physical function may decline during oncologic therapy. In this study, a program to help maintain physical function was developed and tested. Cancer patients, 60 years and older, starting outpatient radiotherapy participated. The individual health condition, risk factors and quality of life were assessed. The results informed individual exercise plans and dietary recommendations. Participants received either paper-based or video-based instructions. After 12 weeks of intervention the assessments were repeated. Four weeks later, a questionnaire was sent to ask about physical activity, nutrition and quality of life. Twenty-four patients participated (14 women, 10 men) with a mean age of 70 ± 7 years. The majority rated the program as helpful. Paper-based or video-based instructions were appreciated equally. The intervention was feasible and showed potential benefit for the maintenance of physical function during outpatient radiotherapy and should be tested with a larger sample. Physical function (PF) in older patients with cancer may decline during and after oncologic therapy. This study aimed to develop and pilot test an individually tailored unsupervised physical activity (PA) program and dietary recommendations to promote PF in older patients with cancer. Following development and pretest, the intervention was pilot tested to explore feasibility, acceptance, adherence and potential benefit. Patients ≥60 years, with heterogeneous cancer diagnoses, starting outpatient radiotherapy were randomized in two study arms: paper-based vs. video-based instructions. Based on assessments of PF, PA, nutrition, cognition, mental health, social support, HRQOL and personal goals, participants received individual recommendations for PA and nutrition. After 12 weeks of intervention (T1), reassessments were performed. The postal 4-week follow-up questionnaire included PA, nutrition and HRQOL. Participants (n = 24, 14 female, mean age 70 ± 7 years) showed comparable characteristics in both study arms. The majority rated the program as helpful. Facilitators and barriers to PA adherence were collected. Both modes of instructions were appreciated equally. PF (EORTC QLQ-C30) declined slightly (not clinically relevant >10 pts.) at group level T0: 76 ± 16, T1: 68 ± 21, T2: 69 ± 24. The intervention was feasible, well accepted, showing potential benefit for the maintenance of PF during outpatient radiotherapy, and should be further tested in a larger sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores one aspect of the operationalisation of a patient-centred ideology of care by examining an oncologist's answers to questions asked by her patient and his companion during a palliative oncology consultation and comparing her answers to the markedly different answers of another oncologist. Halliday's concept of register and Hasan's semantic networks are used to examine the oncologists' answers. Patients' questions create the semiotic environment for clinicians to provide the information patients need for informed decision-making -- an important aspect of patientcentredness. The answers clinicians provide construe their position towards this ideology of care. Findings suggest that one way patient-centredness can be operationalised, at the level of semantics, is through providing elaborated answers that explicitly display the reasoning employed by the oncologist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notwithstanding the progress made across the cancer care continuum, a major problem that many patients with cancer experience is the difficulty of access to global standards of care. Awareness of this problem has been increasing most especially when the economic context of a country forces health systems to deliver quality care despite the rising costs of diagnostic and therapeutic innovations amidst limited resources. Ultimately, inappropriate delivery of care to patients with cancer contributes to inadequate and unequal access to high-value therapy increasing financial toxicity among patients. This paper aims to highlight (1) the economic burden of cancer in the Philippines, (2) the saliency of identifying low-value interventions which come in two forms: the persistent over usage of proven ineffective modalities, and the underusage of potentially effective ones, and (3) the adverse effects of a decentralized health care system. The paper will also provide suggestions to address the challenges of achieving health equity in cancer care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A votive offering or ex-voto includes a variety of usually non-professional artworks offered to divinities and placed in religious sites to fulfill a vow or in gratitude for recovery from an illness or injury. Unfortunately, the ancient period lacks a scientifically verifiable understanding of the true nature of cancer and its natural history and, consequently, a lack of effective treatment. This paper discusses two ex-votos potentially related to breast cancer distant more than 2000 years, one from the other. The ex-votos convey the complex relationship of humans with illness through an art expression stemming from the heart and minds of ordinary people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with intellectual disability have unmet health needs and experience health inequalities. There is limited literature regarding cancer care for children, adolescents, and young adults (AYA) with intellectual disability despite rising cancer incidence rates in this population. This systematic review aimed to identify the psycho-social and information support needs of AYA cancer care consumers with intellectual disability to generate recommendations for future research and cancer care service delivery enhancement. We searched eight databases yielding 798 articles. Following abstract and full-text review, we identified 12 articles meeting our inclusion criteria. Our three themes related to communication and accessible information; supports and system navigation, cancer service provider training, and reasonable adjustments. There was a lack of user-friendly, accessible information about cancer and screening programs available. Both paid and family carers are critical in accessing cancer supports, services, and screening programs for AYA with intellectual disability. Ongoing training should be provided to healthcare professionals regarding the importance of care screening for AYAs with intellectual disability. This review recommends that AYA with intellectual disability and their family carers be involved in developing tailored cancer services. This should focus on enabling inclusive screening programs, accessible consent, and challenging the enduring paternalism of support services via training and appropriate communication tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Many cancer care services (CCS) provide pragmatic models of emergent care for their patients as part of 'business as usual' without understanding the scope of this work. We aimed to describe an Australian CCS-led model of emergent care and quantify and profile emergent care provided over a 6-month period to understand scope and demand. Methods: This prospective cohort study was performed at a large tertiary hospital on the eastern coast of Australia in 2016. The study explored emergent care provided during business hour and after-hours, including telephone advice, unplanned care and unplanned admissions. Data were collected via electronic hospital records and clinical nurses regarding who accessed care, why care was accessed, what care was provided and how the episode of care ended. Results: Between March and September 2016, 1412 episodes of unplanned care were provided in the CCS-led model of care, including 307 episodes of telephone advice (237 patients; min max 1–4 episodes per patient; 825 episodes of unplanned care (484 patients; min max 1–9 episodes per patient) and 280 unplanned admissions (233 patients; min max 1–6 episodes per patient). During the same time, an additional 459 unplanned admissions (361 patients) occurred via the emergency department (ED), of which 125 (27.2%) occurred during business hours which could have been managed by the CCS. Most people who received care experienced issues associated with disease or treatment and had received systemic anticancer therapy in the past 30 days. Conclusions: The data demonstrate that a significant volume of emergent care was provided within the CCS over the study period, in addition to planned cancer treatment. Due to the ever-increasing demands on EDs and the significant need for emergent care for people with cancer, there is need for CCS-led models of care to provide specialist emergent care specifically for people who are receiving systemic anticancer therapy. Such models must be adequately resourced to meet the needs of patients, carers and healthcare professionals. What is known about the topic?: There is increasing focus on innovative models of emergent care for people with cancer in the out-patient setting to relieve pressure on EDs and improve patient experiences. Limited literature has focused on such models in the Australian context. What does this paper add?: This paper describes, quantifies and profiles care provided in a pragmatic CCS-led model of emergent care in a large tertiary hospital in Australia over 6 months. The data demonstrate significant demand for emergent care within business hours, as well as out of hours, predominantly for people undergoing systemic anticancer therapy. What are the implications for practitioners?: The findings of this study highlight the need for CCS to develop pragmatic models of emergent care. Appropriate resources, infrastructure, policies and procedures are required to adequate meet the needs of patients and carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To recognise that assessing the competence of nurses delivering systemic anticancer therapy (SACT) is essential to ensure high-quality patient care • To learn about the development of a digital SACT competency passport that aims to improve learning experience and accessibility for users • To contribute towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD (UK readers) • To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers). Robust competency assessment of systemic anticancer therapy (SACT) nurses ensures high-quality care is delivered to patients. The UK Oncology Nursing Society (UKONS) developed the SACT competency passport to support training and assessment of SACT nurses. Used throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland, the passport benefits staff, patients and employers. Limitations in terms of its accessibility and interactivity prompted UKONS to commission the creation of a digital version in the form of an app. This article introduces the app and discusses the features aiding the passport’s use. It also explains how to complete and mark the passport, how to assess others with it and how to provide feedback. Finally, the authors provide information about the implementation of the app and future developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This survey aimed to analyse healthy citizens (HC), cancer patients and their caregivers (CP&CG) perception about cancer care among six different Italian regions. Methods: The survey for HC was conducted by a multinational market research institute (IPSOS) through a computer‐assisted web interviewing system, using a dataset of people who had consented to be interviewed for previous studies. CP&CG were interviewed by patient advocates using paper questionnaires. Results: HC completed 1831 questionnaires between May and June 2019; CP&CG filled 1779 questionnaires between May and October 2019. 55% of all interviewees felt they were adequately informed about cancer, with no disparities between regions. Overall, population was satisfied with the National Health Care System (HCS), CP&CG more than HC, probably for their personal positive experience. There were different satisfaction levels between regions regarding components of the pathway of care, but agreement about health workers' 'human component'. Forty‐three per cent of the interviewed were informed about genetic tests, 47% about innovative drugs. The percentage was greater among CP&CG (51% and 61% respectively). Conclusions: Italian people were overall satisfied with HCS although with significant different perceptions between regions. Moreover, some critical issues were highlighted as low adherence at screening invitation and genetic tests. Understanding people's perception regarding HCS is crucial to support health policies and to improve the performance of HCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study summarises research- and practice-based evidence on home-based chemotherapy, and explores existing delivery models. A three-pronged investigation was conducted consisting of a literature review and synthesis of 54 papers, a review of seven home-based chemotherapy programmes spanning four countries, and two case studies within the Canadian province of Ontario. The results support the provision of home-based chemotherapy as a safe and patient-centred alternative to hospital- and outpatient-based service. This paper consolidates information on home-based chemotherapy programmes including services and drugs offered, patient eligibility criteria, patient views and experiences, delivery structures and processes, and common challenges. Fourteen recommendations are also provided for improving the delivery of chemotherapy in patients' homes by prioritising patient-centredness, provider training and teamwork, safety and quality of care, and programme management. The results of this study can be used to inform the development of an evidence-informed model for the delivery of chemotherapy and related care, such as symptom management, in patients' homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Persistent smoking among patients diagnosed with cancer is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, yet an evidence-based tobacco use intervention has not been well-integrated into cancer care in community oncology settings. This paper describes the protocol of a nation-wide clinical trial conducted by the ECOG-ACRIN National Cancer Institute (NCI) Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) Research Base to assess the effectiveness of a virtual tobacco treatment intervention and the process of implementing tobacco treatment in NCORP community oncology settings.Methods/design: This two-arm, multisite (n: 49 NCORP sites) hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of a Virtual Intervention Treatment (VIT) versus an Enhanced Usual Control (EUC) among English and Spanish speaking patients recently diagnosed with cancer, reporting current smoking and receiving care at a participating NCORP Community or Minority/Underserved Site. The VIT includes up to 11 virtual counseling sessions with a tobacco treatment specialist and up to 12 weeks of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The EUC arm receives a referral to the NCI Quitline. The primary study outcome is biochemically confirmed 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence. Moderators of treatment effect will be assessed. The study evaluates implementation processes from participating NCORP site staff via survey, administrative, and focus group data, including reach, acceptability, appropriateness, fidelity, feasibility, adoption, cost and sustainability outcomes.Discussion: This trial will generate findings about the effectiveness of an evidence-based virtual tobacco treatment intervention targeting patients diagnosed with cancer and illuminate barriers and facilitators that influence implementing tobacco treatment into community oncology settings nationally. In the era of COVID-19, virtual care solutions are vital for maximizing access and utilization of tobacco treatment delivery.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03808818) on January 18th, 2019; Last update posted: May 21st, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telemedicine is a useful tool that connects patients to their care team remotely and improves access to medical care for rural residents. This study aimed to determine the telemedicine experience of both rural patients with cancer and their physicians, and to explore factors associated with a positive patient experience. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, cancer patients and physicians in Saskatchewan completed a paper-based survey composed of 32 items or an electronic survey of 18 items, respectively. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess patient satisfaction in relation to various sociodemographic and cancer-related factors. Results: Overall, 25 physicians and 165 patients participated in the study. Among the physicians, 94% were confident in their telemedicine assessment, 58% agreed that telemedicine improved clinical efficiency, and 73% agreed that doctor–patient rapport was unimpaired with telemedicine. Of 165 patients, 61% had used telemedicine for the first time, 81% felt that their needs were met, 83% were satisfied with the quality of their care, and 88% had a positive experience. Overall, 83% patients vs. 45% physicians preferred telemedicine to a face-to-face clinic visit (p = 0.005). On univariate analysis, patients ≥ 65 years old had a greater positive telemedicine experience compared to patients < 65 years old (odds ratio 4.1 [1.2–13.8], p = 0.02). Conclusion: Both patients and physicians have a high rate of positive experiences with telemedicine. However, patients have a higher preference for telemedicine over face-to-face visits compared to physicians. In addition, elderly patients have more positive telemedicine experiences compared to younger patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients who achieve smoking cessation following a cancer diagnosis can experience an improvement in treatment response and lower morbidity and mortality compared to individuals who continue to smoke. It is therefore imperative for publicly funded cancer centres to provide appropriate training and education for healthcare providers (HCP) and treatment options to support smoking cessation for their patients. However, system-, practitioner-, and patient-level barriers exist that hamper the integration of evidence-based cessation programs within publicly funded cancer centres. The integration of evidence-based smoking cessation counselling and pharmacotherapy into cancer care facilities could have a significant effect on smoking cessation and cancer treatment outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to describe the elements of a learning health system for smoking cessation, implemented and scaled up in community settings that can be adapted for ambulatory cancer clinics. The core elements include appropriate workflows enabled by technology, thereby improving both practitioner and patient experience and effectively removing practitioner-level barriers to program implementation. Integrating the smoking cessation elements of this program from primary care to cancer centres could improve smoking cessation outcomes in patients attending cancer clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to analyse the effects of administered interventions on the quality of life of children with cancer in Turkey. Methods: The quantitative studies conducted with paediatric oncology patients, analysing the quality of life of Turkish children, and published papers from 2009 to 2019 were searched. Joanna Briggs Institution MAStARI Experimental and Quasi‐Experimental Research Control List and Quality Index were used for methodological assessment. Five studies comprising a total of 264 samples were included. Four studies were nonrandomised controlled trials, and one was a quasi‐experimental study. Results: Tests for heterogeneity showed that the studies, which included interventions increasing the quality of life of children with cancer, were heterogeneous. The common effect size of all studies on quality of life was determined as having a strong positive effect. Conclusions: This meta‐analysis and systematic review contribute to the knowledge of Turkish health care professionals regarding these interventions by producing results with high levels of evidence on the improvement of the quality of life among children with cancer. The present study also significantly raises awareness and encourages health care professionals to implement interventions for the improvement of quality of life among children with cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This review provides an overview of the existing literature on the importance of care coordination for lung cancer care and other cancers in general. The review is inclusive of the burden of cancer, with a special reference to lung cancer, as well as challenges and achievements relating to cancer care coordination.Method: We conducted a search of online databases of peer-reviewed studies published in the English language. The analysis for this review has been packaged into themes in order to generate results that can inform researchers and cancer health professionals, on the existing gaps necessary for developing appropriate intervention strategies and policy guidelines.Results: Cancer is a complex condition that often requires multiple interventions provided by a variety of health professionals within the healthcare continuum. This paper reviewed research studies that explored the supportive care needs of cancer patients. The results are presented in three superordinate themes, namely (a) cancer as a healthcare priority in South Africa (SA), (b) making a case for coordinated cancer care in SA, and (c) care coordination: a poorly defined, yet complex concept. One major need identified was the requirement of informational support. Other essential needs included referral, emotional, and financial support.Significance Of Results: The identification of current obstacles has the potential to guide the development of a model to improve quality coordinated cancer health care. It remains that limited research exists around cancer services and cancer care in the South African region. This narrative review identified common elements and barriers to care for lung cancer patients and survivors, and offers recommendations for developing clinical care models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to generate qualified information on technologies that are expected to be relevant to cancer care over the next thirty years (2017–2037). Drawing on the concepts of technology foresight, a methodology was developed for future technology research. Future technologies were identified by consulting editorials of journals specializing in oncology. Nine technologies were selected with the potential to impact cancer care in the future. Additionally, a method was developed for consulting a large number of experts from articles indexed in Thomson Reuters Web of Science. In this survey, more than 83,000 cancer specialists were invited to answer a web survey in which they expressed their expectations about the future of cancer care. The questionnaire was answered by 2408 specialists, 56% of whom stated they were highly knowledgeable experts. Our results show that antibody-related therapies, molecular imaging, and tumor delivery systems are the technologies most likely to be used in cancer care in the next thirty years. The main reasons pointed out for the choice of these technologies were improvements in the prognosis of the disease and improved diagnostic reliability. Meanwhile, knowledge and scientific barriers were highlighted as the main obstacles to the development of the technologies deemed to have more limited chances of success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To improve quality across levels of care, we developed a standardized care pathway (SCP) integrating palliative and oncology services for hospitalized and home-dwelling palliative cancer patients in a rural region. Methods: A multifaceted implementation strategy was directed towards a combination of target groups. The implementation was conducted on a system level, and implementation-related activities were registered prospectively. Adult patients with advanced cancer treated with non-curative intent were included and interviewed. Healthcare leaders (HCLs) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved in the development of the SCP or exposed to the implementation strategy were interviewed. In addition, HCLs and HCPs exposed to the implementation strategy answered standardized questionnaires. Hospital admissions were registered prospectively. Results: To assess the use of the SCP, 129 cancer patients were included. Fifteen patients were interviewed about their experiences with the patient-held record (PHR). Sixty interviews were performed among 1320 HCPs exposed to the implementation strategy. Two hundred and eighty-seven HCPs reported on their training in and use of the SCP. Despite organizational cultural differences, developing an SCP integrating palliative and oncology services across levels of care was feasible. Both HCLs and HCPs reported improved quality of care in the wake of the implementation process. Two and a half years after the implementation was launched, 28% of the HCPs used the SCP and 41% had received training in its use. Patients reported limited use and benefit of the PHR. Conclusion: An SCP may be a usable tool for integrating palliative and oncology services across care levels in a rural region. An extensive implementation process resulted in improvements of process outcomes, yet still limited use of the SCP in clinical practice. HCLs and HCPs reported improved quality of cancer care following the implementation process. Future research should address mandatory elements for usefulness and successful implementation of SCPs for palliative cancer patients. Plain language summary: When a patient has incurable cancer, it is beneficial to introduce palliative care early in the disease trajectory along with anti-cancer treatment. A standardized care pathway is a method to improve quality and reduce variation in healthcare. It can promote integrated healthcare services in palliative care, e.g. by specifying action points when the patient's situation is changing. In this study, a standardized care pathway for cancer patients with palliative care needs was developed in a rural region of Norway. The pathway focused on patients' needs and symptoms and on smooth transition between levels of care. An educational program and an information strategy were developed to ensure implementation. To evaluate the implementation, all activity regarding the implementation process was registered. Cancer patients and healthcare professionals were interviewed and answered questionnaires. One thousand three hundred and twenty healthcare professionals were exposed to the implementation strategy. One hundred and twenty-nine cancer patients were followed up according to the standardized care pathway. Despite different perspectives of care, it was feasible to develop a standardized care pathway for palliative cancer patients across care settings. A paper-based patient-held record was only found to be useful by a limited number of patients. An extensive implementation process was completed and resulted in improvements regarding healthcare professionals' experience with the quality of cancer care in the region, but limited use of the care pathway in clinical practice. Further research should identify the most important elements for usefulness and successful implementation of the care pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spread of instant messenger systems provides an excellent opportunity and a helpful tool to healthcare professionals. WhatsApp instant messenger use is widely prevalent among health professionals, cancer patients, caregivers and the general population. It is a quick and easy communication tool that may also be used on personal computers and business purposes. WhatsApp instant messenger and other similar tools may be a very useful complement for e-medicine. Instant messaging systems may be helpful, especially in rural areas, in medium- or low-income countries, or to avoid unnecessary travels, improve knowledge and awareness of cancer, monitor home care and support the delivery of home care. The unregulated use of WhatsApp instant messenger requires sound and shared guidelines to assure impeccable professional service. Although a significant number of papers have investigated the roles of social networks in connecting patients to health professionals, there is still a lack of information and scientific data about their uses, benefits and limitations in connecting health providers only for professional communication. The role of instant messenger systems in cancer practice and research needs to be clarified. In this paper, we report a focus on available data, pros and contras of the unregulated use of WhatsApp instant messaging, in the context of e-medicine, as an interprofessional and doctor/patient communication tool in oncology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narrative medicine (NM) is a new discipline in healthcare that helps the patients and physicians to tell and listen to the accounts of disease, illness, and suffering. In the last 20 years, NM has moved into the realms of biomedical education, research, and training. The complexity of cancer management can gain from the medical humanism of NM. A new model of cancer care called narrative oncology (NO) with NM-based skill sets of attention, representation, and affiliation can build narrative competence, therapeutic relationship, and clinical trust. The oncologists, patients, and their family caregivers, and the cancer care health system will create an inclusive and empathetic eco-system. This paper outlines the broad framework of NM, which becomes narrative oncology for cancer medicine. The clinicians, nurses, health workers, and scientists should learn and implement this new discipline alongside their biomedical activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To elucidate the policy implications of recent trends in the funding of radiotherapy services between 2009–10 and 2021–22. Method. We use national aggregate claims data to determine time trends in the fees, benefits and out-of-pocket (OOP) costs of radiotherapy and nuclear therapeutic medicine claims funded through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) program. All dollar figures are expressed in constant 2021 Australian dollars. Results. Radiotherapy and nuclear therapeutic medicine MBS claims increased by 78% whereas MBS funding increased by 137% between 2009–10 and 2021–22. The main driver of Medicare funding growth has been the Extended Medicare Safety Net, which has increased by 404%. Over the 13 year observation period, the percentage of bulk-billed claims peaked in 2017–18 at 76.1% but fell to 69.8% in 2021–22. For non-bulk billed services, average OOP costs per claim increased from $20.40 in 2009–10 to $69.78 in 2021–22. Conclusion. Despite increased Medicare funding, patients face increasing financial barriers to access radiation oncology services. Policies with regard to funding radiotherapy services should be reviewed to ensure that services are easily accessible and affordable for all those needing treatment and at a reasonable cost to Government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: The aim of this study was to describe patterns of health service utilisation among the Australian population with cancer compared with the general population. Methods: Data for all respondents aged ≥25 years from two successive National Health Surveys conducted between 2011 and 2014 were analysed. Respondents with a history of cancer were identified as the cancer group, whereas all other respondents who did not report having had a cancer were included in the non-cancer control group. Comparisons were made between the two groups using logistic regression models. Results: The population with cancer was more likely to report having consulted their general practitioner, specialist, chemist, dietician, naturopath, nurse, optometrist, dentist, audiologist and other health professionals than the non-cancer population. The cancer population was also more likely to be admitted to hospital and to have visited an out-patient clinic, emergency department and day clinic. The presence of comorbidity and a current cancer were associated with a greater likelihood of receiving health services among the population with cancer. Conclusion: The population with cancer used health services significantly more than the non-cancer population. Further studies are urgently needed to identify optimal approaches to delivery of care for this population, including barriers and enablers for their implementation. What is known about the topic?: Multimorbidity is highly prevalent among the cancer population due to risk factors shared between cancer and other chronic diseases, and the development of new conditions resulting from cancer treatment and cancer complications. However, the Australian healthcare system is not set up optimally to address issues related to multimorbidity. What does this paper add?: This study is the first step in quantifying health services use by the population with cancer compared with the general population without cancer. Cancer survivors have an increased need for specific health services, particularly among those with multimorbidity. What are the implications for practitioners?: The development of integrated care models to manage multiple chronic diseases aligned with the Australian National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions is warranted. Further studies are urgently needed to identify optimal approaches to delivery of care for this population, including barriers and enablers for their implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 1996, Maggie’s has led a new approach to cancer support that emphasises the empowering potential of the designed environment for its users. This paper draws on qualitative research from two separate projects undertaken with staff, visitors and volunteers at 10 Maggie’s Centres, exploring their experiences of Maggie’s environments, and their use of internal spaces and garden areas. Maggie’s has been most often noted for the buildings it commissions, but we argue that the gardens prompt a re-evaluation of the integrated healing environment. Locating our research in health geography debates, Maggie’s buildings and gardens are situated as contemporary examples of therapeutic landscapes. The Centres open up debates about the capacity of the designed environment to enhance the experience of well-being. This is achieved through the provision of communal areas within which visitors can find private places for emotional retreat, encouraging the experience of affective sanctuary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is globally the third most prevalent cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In Alberta, Canada, a significant portion of CRC diagnoses occur following emergency department (ED) presentations. Gaps remain in understanding patient's perspectives on CRC diagnosis after an ED visit. The aim of this study was to examine the experiences and perspectives of a group of patients diagnosed with CRC subsequent to an ED visit in Alberta and their close contacts. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth, semi-structured interviews with patients diagnosed with CRC after an ED visit at the Rockyview General Hospital, Calgary, and their close contacts, from November 2022 to June 2023. Interviews focused on symptom recognition, healthcare interactions, and the decision-making process leading to an ED visit. They were conducted in-person or over the phone, and analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Eighteen participants (12 patients and 6 close contacts) were interviewed, revealing four main themes: (1) variability in symptom recognition and interpretation; (2) inconsistencies in primary care consultations; (3) factors influencing decision-making leading to an ED visit; and (4) recommendations for expedited diagnosis outside of EDs. Conclusion: The findings highlight the complexity of the diagnostic journey for CRC patients in Alberta, pointing to significant gaps in symptom recognition and response by patients and healthcare providers. Improved diagnostic protocols and targeted support for healthcare providers, as well as approaches to address systemic delays may help streamline the diagnostic journey. Future research should focus on exploring innovative interventions to address the identified barriers to timely CRC diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynaecological cancer and has a very high mortality rate. The cornerstone of treatment is complete debulking surgery plus chemotherapy. Even with treatment, 80% of patients have a recurrence. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has been shown to be useful in the control and follow-up of some tumours. It could be an option to define complete cytoreduction and for the early diagnosis of recurrence. Objective: We aimed to demonstrate the usefulness of ctDNA and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) as a marker of complete cytoreduction and during follow-up in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Material and Methods: We selected 22 women diagnosed with advanced high-grade serous ovarian cancer, of which only 4 had complete records. We detected cfDNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), presented as ng/mL, and detected ctDNA with droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). We calculated Pearson correlation coefficients to evaluate correlations among cfDNA, ctDNA, and cancer antigen 125 (CA125), a biomarker. Results: The results obtained in the evaluation of cfDNA and ctDNA and their correlation with tumour markers and the radiology of patients with complete follow-up show disease progression during the disease, stable disease, or signs of recurrence. cfDNA and ctDNA correlated significantly with CA125. Following cfDNA and ctDNA over time indicated a recurrence several months earlier than computed tomography and CA125 changes. Conclusion: An analysis of cfDNA and ctDNA offers a non-invasive clinical tool for monitoring the primary tumour to establish a complete cytoreduction and to diagnose recurrence early. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The integration of quantitative imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with mixed reality (MR) technology holds promise for enhancing the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring of cancer. This study compares the characteristics and effects of MR and color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) in the localization of perforator blood vessels in the lower extremities. Methods: Two techniques were used to locate the perforator vessels in 40 cases of maxillofacial defect repair using perforator flaps from the lower extremities. The number of perforator vessels located in the flap area and the actual number of perforator vessels explored during the surgery were recorded. The recognition rate was calculated and the operation time and blood loss were recorded for each case. Results: The recognition rates of MR technology and CDU in perforating vessels of the lower limbs were 93.9% and 97.2%, respectively (p > 0.05). The operation time was 52-74 minutes, 65-88 minutes (p > 0.05). The average bleeding volumes were 24 and 56 ml (p < 0.05), respectively. All perforator flaps were alive. One flap had a crisis and recovered after emergency exploratory treatment. Thirty donor sites of the lower extremities were directly sutured, and wounds were closed by abdominal skin grafting in 10 cases. Conclusion: MR technology for successfully identifying perforator vessels can shorten the operation time, reduce the amount of bleeding in the donor site, and reduce trauma to the donor site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aimed to discover the requirements of hospital-based spiritual care for cancer patients.Methods: This study was a descriptive qualitative-exploratory research, in which 25 participants were selected through purposive sampling and had semi-structured interviews.Result: The data analysis revealed 3 themes and 8 sub-themes including fundamental requirements (changes in the attitudes and behaviors of the healthcare team), structural requirements (inter-professional collaborations, a reference system), and functional requirements (religious-spiritual, pastoral, psycho-spiritual, and supportive-spiritual care). In this study, the received topics have been related to the spiritual care which can help improve patient care.Conclusion: The results were added to the repertoire of knowledge about the spiritual needs of cancer patients. The results indicated that it is essential to get acquainted with the spiritual care requirements in the hospital and enforce them through inter-professional collaboration. Accordingly, the spiritual care program should be designed, implemented, and evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diagnosis of cancer and its treatment often have a profound impact on an individual's health-related quality of life-affecting physical, psychological, social, occupational, and financial domains. Person-centered care (PCC)-defined as a respectful, responsive, and tailored approach that meets patients' needs, values, and preferences-is becoming an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The implementation of PCC into clinical practice provides benefits such as improvement in the quality of patient care, enhanced health-related outcomes, and significantly higher satisfaction with care. However, to guide and document more precisely the effects of PCC, various authors have argued that a more comprehensive measurement framework is needed. The primary goal of this paper is to present such an evolving framework based on extant evidence and developed in the context of a series of expert stakeholder meetings spearheaded by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) that began in 2012. Developed collaboratively, the Cancer Experience Measurement Framework goes beyond existing patient experience frameworks by focusing on four key elements and related measures: the patient perspective, the family perspective, the combined patient-family perspective, and interactions with the healthcare system. In light of current healthcare trends promoting cancer self-management, patients as partners, and patient and family engagement in care, it is imperative that we conduct ongoing assessments using shared and psychometrically sound measures to ensure sound comparisons across settings, as well as better cancer-related processes and outcomes for indivduals affected by cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study was conducted to investigate medication-related problems after implementation of clinical pharmacy services at a speciality oncology care setting. Methods It was a prospective interventional study conducted for a period of three years at a private academic oncology care setting. Paper-based medical records and medication orders were reviewed and patients and care givers were interviewed to understand the treatment plan. All the medication-related problems were identified by clinical pharmacists by performing drug therapy review. Patients were also followed up at ambulatory care and in-patient units to ensure appropriate administration of anti-cancer drugs by nurses. All the medication-related problems were discussed with the concerned clinicians and then were resolved with the interventions of clinical pharmacists. Clinical significance of these interventions were assessed and classified as "Major", "Moderate "and "Minor". Educational, clinical and system-based interventions were developed and implemented to minimize medication-related problems at the study site. Results A total of 1359 medication-related problems were identified from 2120 medication orders reviewed of 1362 patients followed during the study period. The most common medication-related problems were lack of suboptimal supportive care (17.95%), inappropriate administration of medications (14.56%), untreated indication (14.20%), wrong dosing calculations (12.21%), drug–drug interactions (11.62%) and sub-therapeutic dose (11.11%). Clinical pharmacy interventions were made to resolve all the medication-related problems. Clinical significance of majority (n = 504, 37.08%) of medication-related problems was "Moderate" followed by "Major" (n = 434, 31.93%) and "Minor" (n = 421, 30.97%). Conclusion The study has demonstrated the importance of clinical pharmacy services in improving quality and safe use of medicines in oncology practice. Positive feedback of clinicians on clinical pharmacy services was a reflection of acceptance of clinical pharmacy interventions by clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the findings of a priority setting process, undertaken with cancer and palliative care clinicians, to better understand the characteristics of medication errors with opioids within their services. Participants representing six public hospitals in one Australian state took part in a series of priority setting workshops and, drawing on actual incidents occurring in their services, sought to identify where in the opioid medication process errors were most frequently occurring. Opioid error types and perceived contributing factors were explored, and strategies to reduce/prevent opioid errors were proposed. The priority setting process provided valuable insights into the types of opioid errors that occur in cancer and palliative care services and the complexity of addressing opioid errors from the clinician's perspective. The findings from this priority setting process will inform future targeted quality improvement initiatives to support safe opioid medication practices in cancer and palliative care services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates reasons why male cancer patients may refrain from patronizing cancer resource centers. By drawing upon a wide range of research from the social sciences and visual design literatures, the authors put forth original propositions that suggest how cancer resource center managers can manipulate a center's servicescape, or built environment, as well as its service offerings, website design, and printed communications to attract more male cancer patients. Despite the inherent challenges of discussing gender in cancer care and limitations to its generalizability in all settings, this research reveals that differences exist regarding the way men and women respond to cancer resource center marketing initiatives. Given the profound benefits that cancer resource centers often assume in a cancer patient's life, including a decreased mortality rate, we encourage service marketing and public health researchers, as well as cancer resource center directors, to consider the propositions put forth in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Comprehensive cancer care requires effective collaboration by interprofessional healthcare teams. The need to develop educational initiatives to improve interprofessional collaboration is increasingly recognised. However, there is no agreement regarding the interprofessional competencies required for effective cancer care leading to much variation on the focus of research, planning and managing change. A scoping review was conducted to identify the current status of IPE in cancer care and to summarise the results of previous research in order to guide the development of interprofessional education in cancer care. Methods: The JBI Scoping Review guidelines were used to guide the process of the review. A search of the available literature was conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus databases from January 2012 to March 2023 to investigate IPE for health professional clinicians working in cancer care. Results: Of the 825 initial references and 153 studies imported for screening, a total of 28 studies were included in the final review. From those studies, seven focused on the need for IPE and interprofessional competence for oncology healthcare professionals, four reviewed existing IPE programs and 17 described the development and evaluation of interprofessional education. Findings show variation and lack of concept definitions underpinning research in IPE in cancer care settings. Variation also exists in the range of research activities in IPE, most notably related to communication, teamwork and the development of interprofessional practice. The evaluation of impact of IPE is mainly focused on health care professionals' self-evaluation and general feedback. Impact on patient care was only evaluated in one study. Conclusions: Based on the results, interprofessional education research in the field of cancer care is limited in Europe. Thus, there is a significant increase in publications in the last five years. A more systematic focus on the theoretical framework and definition of concepts would be of value. Research and programme development should be based on a shared understanding on what constitutes the interprofessional competences and IPE. Programmes to develop interprofessional practice should be developed and implemented systematically with inclusion of validated assessment methods, and evaluated and improved regularly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer-associated malnutrition is associated with worse symptom severity, functional status, quality of life, and overall survival. Malnutrition in cancer patients is often under-recognized and undertreated, emphasizing the need for standardized pathways for nutritional management in this population. The objectives of this study were to (1) investigate the relationship between malnutrition risk and self-reported symptom severity scores in an adult oncology outpatient population and (2) to identify whether a secondary screening tool for malnutrition risk (abPG-SGA) should be recommended for patients with a specific ESAS-r cut-off score or group of ESAS-r cut-off scores. Methods: A single-institution retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. Malnutrition risk was measured using the Abridged Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (abPG-SGA). Cancer symptom severity was measured using the Revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS-r). In accordance with standard institutional practice, patients completed both tools at first consult at the cancer centre. Adult patients who completed the ESAS-r and abPG-SGA on the same day between February 2017 and January 2020 were included. Spearman's correlation, Mann Whitney U tests, receiver operating characteristic curves, and binary logistic regression models were used for statistical analyses. Results: 2071 oncology outpatients met inclusion criteria (mean age 65.7), of which 33.6% were identified to be at risk for malnutrition. For all ESAS-r parameters (pain, tiredness, drowsiness, nausea, lack of appetite, shortness of breath, depression, anxiety, and wellbeing), patients at risk for malnutrition had significantly higher scores (P < 0.001). All ESAS-r parameters were positively correlated with abPG-SGA score (P < 0.01). The ESAS-r parameters that best predicted malnutrition risk status were total ESAS-r score, lack of appetite, tiredness, and wellbeing (area under the curve = 0.824, 0.812, 0.764, 0.761 respectively). Lack of appetite score ≥ 1 demonstrated a sensitivity of 77.4% and specificity of 77.0%. Combining lack of appetite score ≥ 1 with total ESAS score > 14 yielded a sensitivity of 87.9% and specificity of 62.8%. Conclusion: Malnutrition risk as measured by the abPG-SGA and symptom severity scores as measured by the ESAS-r are positively and significantly correlated. Given the widespread use of the ESAS-r in cancer care, utilizing specific ESAS-r cut-offs to trigger malnutrition screening could be a viable way to identify cancer patients at risk for malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]