Background: Cognitive complaints are common among cancer survivors. Few studies have assessed cognitive complaints using large sample and information on patients’ expectations for management of cognitive disorders are scarce. 

Objectives: We aimed to assess cognitive complaints using a large national survey.

Methods: This online survey was proposed by Seintinelles association to cancer survivors, except brain primary or metastasis cancer and without progressive psychiatric or neurological disease. Cognitive complaints were assessed by a list of questions. Patients were asked about their expectations for management of cognitive difficulties and knowledge about chemotherapy-associated cognitive problems.

Results: Among 1610 eligible participants (median age 52[21-84]), >85% were breast cancer survivors. Median post-cancer treatment time (excluding hormone therapy) was 2.83 years [0.8-33]. 273 (17%) had a weekly consumption of psychotropic medications. 1379 participants (86%) had cognitive complaints whose 1214 (88%) related to cancer treatments. Cognitive difficulties started during chemotherapy (419(35%)), after chemotherapy (360(30%)) and during hormone therapy (186(15%)) and lasted a median of 2 years [0.08-32]. 618 (40%) had pre-existing knowledge about chemotherapy-associated cognitive problems and this was significantly associated with their cognitive complaints (p=0.01). Among survivors with cognitive complaints related to cancer treatments, 909(75%) would like to receive cognitive rehabilitation, 439(48%) psychological support and 294(32%) physical activity.

Conclusions: Using a national survey, we observed a large proportion of participants with cognitive complaints. For the majority of them, complaints were due to cancer treatments. Most participants would like to receive management and especially cognitive one. Cognitive program should be included in the portfolio of oncology supportive care.

22 / COGNITIVE COMPLAINTS IN CANCER SURVIVORS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR MANAGEMENT: RESULTS FROM A NATIONAL SURVEY