Experiences and Needs of Swiss Cancer Survivors in the Domains of Health-Related Information and the Healthcare System
2024

Swiss Cancer Survivors' Experiences and Needs

Sample size: 1870 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sperisen Nicolas, Arditi Chantal, Schaffar Robin, Dietrich Pierre-Yves, Rapiti Elisabetta

Primary Institution: Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva

Hypothesis

What are the experiences of Swiss cancer survivors in relation to the domains of health-related information and the healthcare system?

Conclusion

Swiss cancer survivors reported problematic experiences in the domains of information and healthcare systems which could lead to unmet needs.

Supporting Evidence

  • Approximately three quarters of cancer survivors encounter long-term sequelae.
  • The mean overall score for health-related information was 7.5 out of 10.
  • Problematic experiences were influenced by geographical location, foregoing care, self-assessed health, and health literacy.
  • Half of the respondents reported difficulties in understanding written information about their health.

Takeaway

Cancer survivors in Switzerland often feel they don't get the information and support they need after treatment, which can make it hard for them to recover.

Methodology

Data from a cross-sectional multicentered survey was analyzed, including responses from 1870 adult Swiss cancer survivors.

Potential Biases

The sample may not be representative due to potential selection bias from non-respondents.

Limitations

Some questions had missing data, and the response rate of the SCAPE study was 48%, which may reflect a risk of selection bias.

Participant Demographics

The sample included slightly more women (53.9%) and individuals from the French-speaking region (52.7%).

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/cancers16244177

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