Cognitive complaints in cancer survivors and expectations for support: Results from a web–based survey

BACKGROUND: Cognitive complaints are common in cancer survivors. We aimed to assess cognitive complaints in cancer survivors and the associated factors using a large web–based survey. METHODS: This online survey was proposed to cancer survivors. Participants completed several questions on cognitive complaints experience, expectations for support of cognitive difficulties, preexisting knowledge about chemotherapy–associated cognitive problems and demographic and medical variables. We used multivariable logistic regression models to estimate Odds Ratios and 95% confidence intervals to estimate associations. RESULTS: Among 1610 eligible participants (median age 52 [21‐84]), >85% (n = 1393) were breast cancer survivors. Median postcancer treatment time (excluding hormone therapy) was 2.83 years [0.8‐33]. Seventy five percent of the participants (n = 1214) reported cognitive complaints related to cancer treatments. Cognitive difficulties had an impact on work resumption for 76% of the participants (n = 754/982). Most cancer survivors would like to receive support (75%, n = 909) and especially cognitive training (72%, n = 658). Chemotherapy was strongly associated with cognitive complaints (multivariable OR = 3.67, 95% CI: 2.80‐4.82). Self–reported sleep difficulties (OR(often vs. never) = 2.84, 95% CI: 1.80‐4.47), preexisting knowledge about chemotherapy–associated cognitive problems (OR(No vs. Yes) = 1.69, 95% CI: 1‐29‐2.22) and age (OR(21‐64 vs. ≥65) = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.23‐0.58) were also associated with cancer–related cognitive complaints. CONCLUSIONS: According to this large web–based survey including mainly breast cancer survivors, cognitive complaints were reported by three quarters of participants, which reinforces that cognitive difficulties are a major issue in cancer survivors. Chemotherapy, self–reported sleep difficulties and preexisting knowledge about chemotherapy–associated cognitive problems were strongly associated with cancer–related cognitive complaints. Most cancer survivors wished to receive support and especially cognitive training.