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Living with and beyond gynecologic cancer: A summary of current trends and perspectives
Abstract
Cancer survivorship has gained increased awareness as a key aspect of cancer care over the past 40 years (Campbell et al., 2019; Halpern et al., 2016; National Research Council et al., 2006; Fitch et al., 2019; Marzorati et al., 2017, Romkey-Sinasac et al., 2021). Individuals living with and beyond gynecologic malignancies face unique cancer-related physical and psychosocial care needs that extend well beyond active treatment (Beesley et al., 2019). Underserved populations experience additional challenges due to intersecting disparities in social determinants of health deeply rooted structural and systemic barriers to healthcare (Canadian Cancer Statistics Advisory Committee, 2023; Helpman et al., 2022). A growing number of individuals will require survivorship care, as cancer incidence and survival rates increase in Canada (Brenner et al., 2024), and novel treatment approaches for gynecological cancers continue to progress (Harris, 2019). Oncology nurses play a pivotal role in providing ongoing assessment, comprehensive care coordination, and advocacy in cancer survivorship care for this population (Campbell et al., 2019; Cook et al., 2017; Horrill, 2022). This article provides an overview of current trends, unique needs, and implications for nursing practice in the care of all individuals living with and beyond endometrial, ovarian, and cervical cancers.
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