A mixed methods examination of distress and person-centred experience of head and neck lymphoedema

The incidence of distress in the general cancer population ranges from 29 to 58% [1 –3]. Distress is linked to increased rates of hospitalisation, and poorer satisfaction and compliance with treatment, poorer quality of life (QoL) and survival [4,5]. The US National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) [6] has endorsed distress as the “sixth vital sign”, recommending routine d istress screening during times of vulnerability along the cancer trajectory [7]. The NCCN [6] notes that patients with social issues, uncontrolled symptoms or communication barriers are at increased risk for clinically-significant distress requiring psychosocial intervention.
Source: Oral Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research