Experiences of adult survivors of childhood cancer in a randomized cardiovascular health promotion trial: a qualitative report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

Abstract

Purpose: To better understand preferences and attitudes that adult-aged survivors of childhood cancer have toward survivorship care plans (SCP) and related SCP-based counseling.

Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 20 survivors participating in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study who were at increased risk for cardiovascular disease secondary to their original cancer treatment. All participants were part of a larger randomized clinical trial (NCT03104543) testing the efficacy of an SCP-based counseling intervention with goal-setting designed to improve control of cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes). A primarily deductive thematic analysis methodology guided interpretation; coded interview segments were grouped into primary themes of facilitators, barriers, suggestions, and positive sentiments.

Results: Participants described benefits of the intervention including facilitation of accountability, goal-setting, and increased knowledge of their health. Many participants also noted improved knowledge of their cancer treatment and subsequent risks, and they were interested in sharing this information with their primary care provider. However, several participants were disappointed when they did not achieve their goals or felt that they had low motivation. Participants generally wanted increased flexibility in the intervention, whether in the duration, frequency, or method of delivery.

Conclusions: The SCP-based intervention was generally well-received by those interviewed and appears promising for promoting goal-setting and accountability as part of an SCP-based intervention to improve control of cardiovascular risk factors.

Implications for cancer survivors: Many survivors are at risk for cardiovascular disease or other potentially modifiable effects of their treatment. SCP-based interventions may facilitate improved control of these late effects.

Keywords: Cancer survivor; Cardiovascular disease; Childhood; Goal-setting; Survivorship care plan.