What cancer patients may or may not be surprised to know about survivorship.

The number of US cancer survivors has increased from fewer than 4 million in the 1970s to 18.1 million in 2022, with the increase reflecting advancements in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. Despite these advancements, cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States. Survivors face a myriad of health concerns, including residual effects of treatment, psychological issues like distress and depression, and an elevated risk of secondary cancers. This article highlights the need for long-term surveillance and a multidisciplinary approach to care, emphasizing the importance of personalized health plans and regular monitoring. It also discusses the challenges encountered in addressing fatigue, sexual health, and disparities in outcomes that negatively affect minorities and financially disadvantaged persons. The article concludes by describing different models of care and the role of primary care providers in managing survivorship care and advocating for a shared-care model to improve access to and integration of care.

Duke Scholars

Author Kevin Charles Oeffinger Medicine, Medical Oncology