A mixed-method systematic review of unmet care and support needs among Japanese cancer survivors.

Abstract

Purpose: To synthesize published studies regarding Japanese cancer survivors' needs/unmet needs of care/support, change of unmet needs over time, and preferred care/support providers.

Methods: A mixed-method systematic review was conducted. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Ichu-shi were searched from inception to May 2022. Quantitative and qualitative studies were separately analyzed using narrative synthesis and meta-ethnography. Each finding was synthesized using a line of argument.

Results: Twenty-four studies (13 quantitative and 11 qualitative studies) were included. Six quantitative studies reported unmet needs in survivors of adolescent and young adult (n=1) and adulthood (n=5) cancer. No longitudinal studies regarding changes in unmet needs were identified. One study reported that adults preferred care/support providers. The quantitative studies identified more help in physical (48.2-51.0%, n=2) and psychological issues (17.4-78.8%, n=5), information (27.9-58.0%, n=3), and healthcare services (25.3-67.1%, n=2) among adults. The qualitative studies emphasized more tailor-made information about life events for young cancer survivors. More empathic and trustworthy interactions with surrounding people, including healthcare professionals, were demanded, regardless of age. A line of argument illustrated that cancer survivors had insufficient resources for activities and empowerment to face life with cancer at all phases.

Conclusions: Japanese cancer survivors' unmet needs are diverse. More information and resources for psychological care/support and local healthcare services post-treatment are needed, which may hinder the optimal transition to survivorship.

Implications for cancer survivors: The synthesized evidence should be utilized to implement a comprehensive care/support system in practice and educate people surrounding cancer survivors, regardless of age.