20 / IF DIAGNOSES MAKE DIFFERENCES IN LEVELS OF FEAR OF CANCER RECURRENCE AND CARE NEEDS: COMPARISON AMONG THREE TYPES OF CANCERS

Introduction Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is the critical concern for cancer patients. Patients might also have different care needs because of disease characteristics. However, limited investigations have explored patients' FCR and care needs across different major cancers types. Objectives The purpose of this study is to explore three major types of cancer survivors (Early Stage Lung Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer, Head & Neck Cancer) of their experiences in FCR and care needs in a medical center in northern Taiwan. Methods Eligible subjects: cancer patients who were operable and have completed major anti-cancer treatments and with disease-free conditions. Measures: the validated Chinese version of Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI-Chinese) questionnaire and Supportive Care Needs Survey–Screening Tool (SCNS-S9). IRB approval and patients consents were obtained before data collection. Results A total of 217 subjects were recruited. Early stage lung cancer patients reported to have the highest concerns about the cancer recurrence and care needs. GYN cancer patients reported to have relatively lower levels in both concerns, when compared to the other two types of cancer patients. Conclusions Although most of these subjects were in early stage and operable, FCR and unmet care needs are still their concerns. Differences of cancer diagnosis might lead to different concerns. Individualized care based on a systematic assessment of FCR and care needs should be applied to improve cancer patients’ life quality.