Leukemia Patients in Early Survivorship: Comparison of Reported Financial Distress During, After, and Three- and Six-Months Post-Treatment
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Date
2012-06
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Despite the high level of distress that accompanies the diagnosis of acute leukemia, little is published about how and when to address patient-reported financial distress. This article reviews the level and source of self-reported distress in early survivorship as associated with pre- and post-diagnosis financial income and insurability.
Individuals with a new diagnosis of acute leukemia were recruited from a Midwestern comprehensive cancer center. Self-report questionnaires were distributed to individuals during active cancer treatment, at its end, and during 3-, and 6- month post-treatment follow-up visits. Participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Distress Thermometer and related 38-item problem list and two author-derived free response items to elicit priority bothersome symptoms and causes of distress.
Results indicated that 62% of participants (N=100) rated their distress as 4 or higher indicating moderate to severe psychological distress (Holland & Bultz, 2007). In the free response section top distressors included: disease symptoms, work/financial, and family/children. The results indicate that leukemia survivors experience a multitude of obstacles and challenges that extend beyond their cancer treatment. Acute leukemia patients and their families may benefit from Survivorship Care.
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Keywords
acute leukemia, distress, survivorship, financial distress