Understanding Anxiety After Cancer Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Khatri Rakhsha BA, Quinn Patrick L. MD, Wells-Di Gregorio Sharla PhD, Pawlik Timothy M. MD, PhD, MPH
Primary Institution: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Hypothesis
What are the rates and factors associated with anxiety related to surveillance after curative-intent cancer surgery?
Conclusion
Scanxiety is common among cancer survivors but is usually temporary and not severe.
Supporting Evidence
- Scanxiety is nearly universal across multiple cancer types and patient populations.
- Rates of scanxiety tend to decrease as time passes after surgery.
- Qualitative studies identified the scan-to-results waiting period as a significant source of anxiety.
- Common risk factors for scanxiety include low coping self-efficacy and pre-existing anxiety.
- Existing trials have not identified effective strategies to reduce scanxiety.
Takeaway
Many people who have had cancer surgery feel anxious about follow-up scans, but this feeling usually goes away after a while.
Methodology
A systematic review of literature from multiple databases was conducted to evaluate anxiety and emotional experiences associated with surveillance after cancer surgery.
Potential Biases
Some studies lacked valid outcome measures and techniques to mitigate confounding variables.
Limitations
The studies included varied in quality and design, making it difficult to summarize findings and draw firm conclusions.
Participant Demographics
The majority of participants were women, with a mean age of 61.9 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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