Advances in early cancer detection and more effective treatment methods are increasing the number of people living many years after a diagnosis of cancer. The number of those living well beyond their initial diagnosis will grow dramatically as researchers continue to develop a clearer understanding of the diseases called cancer and ways to manage their multiple manifestations.
An emerging issue for any survivor is the experience of adverse effects of treatment over a long period of time. Recent research reports indicate that long-term serious outcomes are more prevalent than were anticipated. In response to the recent reports and the need for nursing to understand how to care for adult survivors of cancer, an Invitational Symposium was held in Philadelphia from July 15 to July 17, 2005.
The State of the Science on Nursing Approaches to Managing Late and Long-Term Sequelae of Cancer and Cancer Treatment
A report of the symposium, which addressed research, education, and practice issues across the continuum of nursing, is being published as a Supplement to this issue of Cancer Nursing. Clinical nursing experts and leaders of cancer survivorship in practice, education, policy, and research as well as representatives from specialty nursing groups, other healthcare organizations, and industry, consumer, and regulatory sectors participated in the 3-day nursing symposium.
The Supplement presents peer-reviewed papers prepared by nursing researchers and other experts in the long-term sequelae of cancer and cancer treatment. It also presents the outcomes of small-group discussions, roundtable discussions, and plenary sessions designed to reach agreement on research gaps and a research agenda, barriers to care, action strategies, and recommendations for future action.
The knowledge deficits, healthcare system barriers, cost considerations, and major gaps in research are outlined. Key to addressing the needs of long-term cancer survivors is nursing leadership, coordination, and participation. Nursing is critical to facilitating communication and collaboration with those organizations committed to improving survivorship care. The Supplement will assist each nurse and organization to set an agenda for addressing the very critical issues confronting cancer survivors.
Carol Reed Ash, EdD, RN, FAAN
Editor,Cancer Nursing