Korean J Psychosom Med.  2023 Dec;31(2):50-62. 10.22722/KJPM.2023.31.2.50.

A Literature Review on Unmet Needs of High-Prevalence Cancer Survivors: Focus on Breast Cancer, Thyroid Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Lung Cancer

• Kim DS
• Kim SM
• Seo JS

• KMID: 2550617
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.22722/KJPM.2023.31.2.50

Abstract

Objectives
：This study aimed to identify unmet needs and influencing factors for patients who have breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and thyroid cancer.
Methods
：We reviewed the SCIE publications on unmet need of four prevalent cancer patients published after 2010 through a web search.
Results
：The measurement tools primarily used were Cancer Survivors' Unmet Needs and Supportive Care Needs Survey questionnaire. Lung cancer patients reported a relatively higher rate of unmet needs. Breast cancer patients frequently reported unmet needs in the healthcare system and information, while thyroid cancer patients in post-treatment management and psychological issues. Colorectal cancer patients reported unmet needs in psychological and comprehensive care domain, and lung cancer patients reported unmet needs in physical and daily life management. Younger age, a shorter time since diagnosis or treatment, and higher levels of anxiety, depression, distress, and reduced quality of life were associated with more significant unmet needs.
Conclusions
：Unmet needs and influencing factors vary by cancer type. Considering the characteristics of each patient group and unmet needs can help in development of more effective treatment and support programs.

Keyword

Breast cancer; Thyroid cancer; Colorectal cancer; Lung cancer; Cancer survivors; Unmet needs.