Improving Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors

Medical advances in the way cancer is diagnosed and treated have improved survival rates of many cancers, and people are living longer after diagnosis. The most recent U.S. estimate shows that for all people diagnosed with cancer from 1995 through 2000, 66 percent survived cancer more than five years compared with a 61 percent five-year survival rate for people diagnosed with cancer from 1989 through 1994.

Even after successful treatment of cancers, general and specific health issues continue for survivors. In 2004, as many as one in five Vermonters diagnosed with cancer more than one year ago reported that their general health status was only ‘fair’ or ‘poor’, as opposed to good, very good or excellent. Almost six percent of all cancer survivors in Vermont were not covered by health insurance in 2004.

In addition, many cancer survivors are missing opportunities for vaccinations to help prevent serious illness from pneumonia and influenza. Only 59.2 percent of cancer survivors reported receiving an annual flu shot in 2004, and less than half (48.8%) have ever gotten a pneumococcal immunization.

Cancer survivors face numerous physical, psychological, social, spiritual and financial issues throughout treatment and for the remaining years of their lives; and could benefit tremendously from a coordinated statewide effort to support them. Emotional and psychological support are leading needs identified by cancer survivors in Vermont.

In 2005, there were over 30,000 Vermonters who had been diagnosed with cancer. The Vermont Cancer Survivor Network was created in 2006 by and for cancer survivors to improve the quality of life for Vermonters living with, through, and beyond cancer. Through a web-based forum, annual Survivor Celebration Days, and the “Kindred Connections” program, cancers survivors in Vermont can give and get critical emotional support from other cancer survivors.

Goal: Improve the quality of life of Vermonters who are living with, through and beyond any diagnosis of cancer.

Objectives: 1. Increase the percentage of cancer survivors who report always or usually receiving emotional/psychological support when needed from 83% (2004) to 91% (2010). 2. Increase the percentage of cancer survivors who report that their general health is good or excellent. from 78% (2004) to 86% (2010).

For more information about the Vermont Cancer Survivor Network go to: VCSN.net.