Health status, use of healthcare, and socio-economic implications of cancer survivorship in Portugal: results from the Fourth National Health Survey

Abstract

PURPOSE: Understanding the morbidity and socio-economic implications of cancer survivorship is essential for a comprehensive management of oncological diseases. We compared cancer survivors (CS) with the general population regarding health status, use of healthcare resources and socio-economic condition. METHODS: We analyzed data from a representative sample of the Portuguese population aged ≥15 years (n = 35,229). We defined three groups of CS, according to the time since diagnosis and the latest cancer treatment: CS 1 diagnosis within 12 months of interview; CS 2 diagnosis more than 12 months before and treatment in the previous 12 months; CS 3 diagnosis and treatment more than 12 months before. These were compared with the general population, adjusting for differences in sex, age, and place of residence. RESULTS: The prevalence of CS was 2.2% (CS 1: 0.2%; CS 2: 0.9%, CS 3: 1.1%). Self-perceived health status was worse among CS and short-time incapacity more frequent among CS 1 and CS 2. Health expenses were higher in the early stages of survivorship. Lower household income and financial difficulties were more frequent in CS 1 and CS 3 men, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study confirmed the higher consumption of healthcare resources and worse financial situation among CS. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Our study provides valuable information for understanding the global impact of cancer survivorship.