Impact of Financial Strain on Lifestyle Choices and Follow-Up Care in Childhood Cancer Survivors
Overview
This study examines the association between medical financial hardship and adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors and surveillance care among adult survivors of childhood cancer. Findings indicate that over half of the survivors reported financial hardship.
Background
Survival rates for childhood cancer have significantly improved, with over 85% of patients surviving five years post-diagnosis. However, these survivors face treatment-related late effects that necessitate lifelong follow-up care. Financial hardship is a growing concern among this population.
Data Highlights
Finding
Percentage
Survivors reporting medical financial hardship
58%
Survivors not meeting physical activity guidelines
Over 66%
Survivors achieving a healthy composite lifestyle score
Less than 25%
Key Findings
58% of childhood cancer survivors reported medical financial hardship.
Financial hardship was linked to higher odds of physical inactivity, smoking, and abnormal body mass index.
More than two-thirds of survivors did not meet recommended physical activity guidelines.
Survivors with material hardship showed lower adherence to breast and cervical cancer screenings.
Psychological hardship was associated with smoking and nonadherence to skin cancer surveillance.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should be aware of the impact of financial hardship on the lifestyle choices and follow-up care of childhood cancer survivors.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the significant role of financial hardship in influencing the health behaviors and follow-up care of childhood cancer survivors.
