An Update on Survivorship Issues in Lung Cancer Patients

Rajapakse, Pramuditha

Recent advances in lung cancer therapeutics and screening have led to increased numbers of lung cancer survivors. Most survivors have undergone invasive treatment (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy) and carry a high comorbidity burden. Overall quality of life suffers during the evaluation, treatment and follow-up phase, with the potential for long-term decline. The issues faced by survivors include physical symptoms, emotional distress as well as socioeconomic instability. These issues may lead to poor compliance with recommended follow-up plan. This article provides an up-to-date literature review on the major issues faced by lung cancer survivors and identifies under-recognized problems such as stigma, financial toxicity and sexual dysfunction. Future collaborative efforts are needed to further elucidate the complex issues that affect overall well-being of lung cancer survivors and to develop appropriate interventions in this expanding survivor population.